Q&A With 2021 Marianna Freeman

 
The 6 ^th players of Joe Fenelon’s Q&A series on NYRHoops Report is Marianna Freeman. She is a 5’6 rising senior point guard from section 5 Bishop Kearney HS. By the start of next season Freeman will be a six-year veteran at the varsity level for one of the premier programs in upstate NY, in the past decade. Coming off another stellar season carrying her team to 20-3 record, in a season that was cut short during a Bishop Kearny playoff run due to Covid19. The efficient sharpshooting points averaged 14.1 points, 3.8 assists, 3.4 rebounds and 2.3 steals per night. At seasons end she was named to the Sports Writers association of New York All State Team.
 
 
Let’s learn more about Marianna Freeman: 
 

How is your relationship with your AAU Coach? 

My AAU coach is Matt Oswalt and he and I have developed a great relationship.  As I continue to work on my game and focus on getting better, he contacts college coaches.  He has kept my family and me up to date on what is going on with regard to tournaments and recruiting while also making sure my teammates and I are taking care of our school work.  He also sends me daily workout challenges to do that contribute to me becoming a better basketball player.
 
How was your experience like playing basketball at Bishop Kearney high school? 

Overall, I have had a good experience playing at Bishop Kearney High School. During the season my team rarely plays against local competition.  We focus on winning a state championship, and to accomplish that we play against state ranked teams and teams ranked in the country.  I also have the opportunity to play with other D1 prospects as well.

What was your most memorable moment during the high school season ? 
 
My most memorable moment of this past high school season was battling Baylee Teal and Penfield to win AA sectionals and earning MVP.

What is it like playing for your high school coach?  

I enjoy playing for coach Kevan Sheppard. He pushes us in practice physically and mentally through drills and exercises which will definitely prepare me for the next level.

What do you think was the biggest growth in your game that led to you getting scholarship offers? 

I believe that my biggest growth was showing my ability to score and see the floor this past season.  I have always been known for my 3-point shooting ability, but I wanted to show I can score in the lane and be a complete point guard. 

What part of your game do you want to improve on?

I want to continue to improve on my creativity when creating shots and passes.  I have also spent most of this quarantine time really working on my mid-range game.
 
What schools are recruiting and who has offered you? 

Things have started to pick up with my recruitment the last few weeks.  I have talked to coaches from a few Big East, A-10, Patriot League, MAC and MAAC schools.

Did you take visits to college yet also how are the virtual tours compared to visits? 

After last AAU season I visited Brown University, Binghamton University and Canisius College.  I have done a few Zoom tours the last few weeks which is different and I look forward to being able to physically visit those schools once this is over.
 
Who are some of the players NBA/ WNBA / NCAA you pattern you game after?

I model my game after Stephen Curry and Kyrie Irving.  

What are you looking for in a college?

I am looking for a school that is strong academically and most importantly, one that provides what I am interested in studying.  In regards to basketball, I am looking for a program that fits my style of play.  I would like to contribute as a freshman but I know it’s not easy and I am looking forward to working hard and being a great teammate.
 
AAU Program:  Syracuse Royals 1
1000 Point Scorer
2019 AA 10th Team All-State
2020 AA 6th Team All State
2020 Sectional MVP