“Don’t lose my number because you are going places” — Rob Blackwell, Director of Basketball Skills Development at St.Vincent Sports Performance
Maxwell Newman is going places. The 6’8” forward showed that in bunches during his junior season at Monrovia high school and will not stop working.
The senior big man had several breakout games this past year in leading Monrovia to a 15-9 record with 19 points, 10.2 rebounds, 2 blocks, 3 steals and 3 assists per game. Newman served notice early on in the season in a 68-41 win over Southmont where he dominated with 26 points, 17 rebounds and 6 blocks.
Even though Newman has obvious size, it’s his versatility that stands out amongst the crowd. Newman has a lot of what coaches at the next level look for – plenty of size at 6’8”, versatility and an unmatched work ethic and desire to get better.
“Max has a tremendous work ethic, he has a ton of motivation and wants to be successful on off the floor”, says Kyle Stafford, head coach for Monrovia. “His role is very important because he makes everyone around him better. His ability to draw double and sometimes triple teams allows other players the opportunity to make plays.
Newman got a heavy dose of great competition in practice and playing with Indiana Elite Fastbreak this spring. He played alongside Jesse Bingham and Jakobie Robinson (both from Warren) and was a force for them so far in a balanced attack. Fastbreak head coach loved what he saw in Newman.
“Maxwell’s strength is his versatility” says Blackmon. “At 6’8’, he is a solid ball handler, he can score at every level and he can create for himself and others off the dribble. Very solid build as well”.
Newman finished the AAU season playing with EG10 on the Gauntlet in July and secured an offer from Bethel University (NAIA), where he is now committed to play for the 2019/20 season. With his size and effort, keep an eye out for Maxwell Newman. His drive and talent will take him places for the rest of high school and beyond at the next level.
