2021 Janel Moore is proof stats and size don’t always tell you the whole story. The 5’5, Rockland County (NY) native is headed into her senior season at Paramus Catholic HS (NJ). After leading her team to a 19-7 record and leading them in the following categories 15.2 Points 4.1 assists & 3.8 steals. The soft spoken guard comes from a family full of athletes such as former NFL All-Pros Darrelle Revis, Sean Gilbert and has two current cousins in college Mark Gilbert (Duke) and Marlon Devonshire (Kentucky). Thru her IEXCEL travel team Director Walter Welsh, NYGHR got a chance to do a Q&A with the star guard.
How was your AAU experience playing with Coach?
My AAU experience was amazing. My team feels like a family and we all get along very well. My coaches name is Tiffany Conner. Playing for her was a great experience and since she played D1 basketball she’s knows how to prep us. She’s like a big sister to all of us.
How was your experience like playing basketball during the high school Season?
My experience playing at Paramus Catholic is great preparation for college. I’m a leader on the team and I love being able to contribute to my team’s success while being a major factor. My experience is great.
What was your most memorable moment during the high school season?
My most memorable moment during the high school season was a county playoff game where we played Cresskill High School. I had a slow start and we were down the whole game. But after halftime I was able to flip a switch and help my team comeback and win the game. I finished with 29 points.
What is it like playing for your high school coach ?
Playing for my high school coach is definitely different but in a good way. His name is Sean Peaksy. He’s always eager to learn more about the game and keeps open ears at all times when his players have feedback on something.
What do you think was the biggest growth in your game that led to you getting scholarship offers?
I believe it was my leadership skills. Freshman year I was very quiet and didn’t really speak up on the court. But as time went on, I turned into more of a leader on and off the court.
What part of your game do you want to improve on? And what have you been doing to improve.
I definitely want to improve on my ball-handling and quickness when getting my shot off. I do specific dribble moves but focus on my gather when I go up for my shots. I try to go as fast as I can.
What schools are recruiting and who has offered you ?
I have an offer from Hampton University. The schools recruiting me are Norfolk State, Delaware State University, Tennessee State University, and Columbia University.
Did you take visits to college yet also how are the virtual tours compared to visits ?
So far I only visited Hampton University and UAlbany. Both visits were amazing. I haven’t done any virtual tours yet.
Who are some of the players NBA/ WNBA / NCAA you pattern you game after
I try to pattern my game after Donovan Mitchell. He’s my favorite NBA player.
What are you looking for in a college?
Academics is huge for me. The team’s graduation rate, along with the school itself, has to be good.
How have you been preparing for hoops during the pandemic ?
I work-out everyday whether it be strength training, conditioning, or basketball work. Regardless, I make sure to get shots up everyday and work on my ball-handling.
When did you fall in love with this game ?
I knew I loved the game in 6th grade when I played for New Heights. I loved my coaches and my teammates which made basketball very enjoyable.
When is you realize hey I’m really good at this basketball thing ?
I realized back in my CYO days. I could tell at very young age that I stood out from the rest of the kids and I had a better sense of the game.
Name: Janel Moore
School: Paramus Catholic High School
AAU: IExcel
Twitter: janel_moore2
IG: janelmoore_