Junior George Gray, a new talent on the OPRF boys’ basketball team, has been a standout contributor this season so far. Notably, Gray led the Huskies to their first conference victory Jan 16. against Proviso West (71-64), scoring 21 points and making nine rebounds.
“It’s been pretty good here,” said Gray. “I like all my teammates, the people here, my teachers.”
Gray transferred from Mount Carmel High School, where he was seventh in the Chicago Catholic Blue Division for points, steals and rebounds per game as a sophomore. Now at OPRF, he is putting his name in the hoop, having multiple stellar appearances.
For example, Gray scored 21 points against Wheeling on Nov. 25. He scored 25 points and had eight rebounds against Fenwick on Dec. 5 in their annual Chicago Elite Classic matchup, for which he was also named MVP. He led OPRF to a 53-41 victory.
In his first year playing in the showcase, Gray enthusiastically described how special the whole experience was: “I was thrilled we were able to come out in that win, and that I was able to perform very well and win MVP.”
Gray expressed his gratitude towards the people in his new environment, saying, “coaches and players have made it pretty to adjust.” Varsity Head Coach Phil Gary has supported him throughout the season and “puts a lot of trust and confidence into me, and makes me and my teammates work really hard during practice, which has helped us a lot,” he said.
Although the team’s record is 6-14 at press, Gray has shown leadership capabilities this season. Coach Gary believes he takes great control of the responsibilities he has as a top player on the roster. As a 6-foot 5-inches, 170-pound guard/forward, “We’re asking him to score, rebound and play defense,” said Gary.
Even during tough losses at the Pontiac Tournament on Dec 29-31, Gray maintained his role as a key player for the varsity squad. He was the team’s second leading scorer against Joliet West on Dec. 29 and a leading scorer with 15 points against St. Charles North on Dec. 30.
Senior guard Cameron Woods, whom Gray knew before transferring, as they played AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) club basketball together, said Gray is a game-changer and pointed out how he always tries to look out for his team.
Woods recalled a time during an important AAU game together when Gray was struggling but came in clutch, “Getting a steal, then a layup to help us win the game.” Woods added how there was another time when he missed a layup and then saw “George, who came out of nowhere on the rim. I felt such a spark.”
Gary said Gray’s athleticism on the court positively affects his teammates, pointing out how “He’s been our best player. He’s made a great impact because when he’s aggressive, he makes our team go.”
His success as a leader and top scorer comes not only from his skill, but also from his game-day mentality. “I try to stay as locked in as possible. I do this by avoiding distractions that could knock me off my game,” said Gray.
There is much left for Gray to prove to the OPRF basketball community, as OPRF still has home conference matchups against Hinsdale Central on Feb. 3, Lyons on Feb 14. and Glenbard West on Feb 17. In addition, the regional round of the state tournament begins on Feb 23.
