Mike Strickland: North Carolina's Rising True Point Guard

The Journey Begins

Mike Strickland, North Carolina's under-the-radar true point guard, is making his name known. A commanding floor general, a lockdown defender, and a confident shot maker, Mike Strickland has been steadily carving out his spot as one of North Carolina's most intriguing rising true point guards. From torching teams in the AAU circuits to dropping big-time statements in showcase events, Strickland is proving he belongs in every conversation.

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Mike to talk about his journey and what his future holds.

Early Realizations

Mike’s rise didn't start with hype; it began with moments of realization and consistency.

“In 8th grade, I knew I could get serious with the game,” he said.

I asked Mike if there was a moment when he knew that basketball was his sport and that he could do some serious damage. His answer was dominant.

“In 9th grade, I scored 37 in an AAU game, and that was my moment. I knew this was my sport.”

From that point on, the path was set. Since then, Mike has been consistently scoring between 18 to 40 points every game while showing immense leadership on his team.

Family Motivation

When I asked Mike what drives him every day, he didn’t hesitate.

“My family. They’ve been pushing me to be the person I am today; I wouldn't be in the position I am now without them; that's my biggest why,” he said.

This family-fueled motivation shows up in how he attacks each day, focusing on both personal and team goals.

Athletic Background

I asked Mike if there was any groundwork laid in his family with the sport of basketball that he's been able to build off of, and his answer was prominent.

“I have a big athletic background in the family with football and others, but I’m really the first to go big in basketball.”

Goals for the Future

I asked Mike what his goals are as he finishes his senior year in high school and looks toward the future.

“Winning that ring, going back-to-back in that state championship as a team goal, but I also want to average 8 assists per game as a personal goal, and be able to get some more college recruits to turn their heads this year.”

College Aspirations

I wanted to know what Mike’s plans are for college and if there is a dream scenario for him. His answer was straightforward.

“Right now I’m talking to a few schools, but at this point, I’m weighing out all options.”

His dream scenario?

“My dream school is Villanova; they produce a lot of great small guards.”

The Professional Dream

I followed up by asking Mike if the end goal is to go pro.

“My goal is to go pro, no question. But I know it’s not just gonna happen overnight. I’m locked in on putting in the work every day, proving myself step by step first at this level, then in college, then chasing that pro dream.”

On-Court Comparisons

On the court, comparisons have started to surface.

“A lot of people like to compare me to Isaiah Thomas, but I like to watch a lot of Rob Dillingham, especially for ball handling; that's who I mainly watch.”

Strengths and Work Ethic

I asked what he considers his greatest strength to be.

“My defense. I like to make up 94 feet, guard opposing teams' best player, and just bring my high motor,” Mike said.

That work ethic spills into his daily routine.

“I get into the gym before school, usually from 6 to 7, before school starts. If it's not a school day, I get in with my trainer at 11, with weights before drill work. At 5, I get on the shooting machine to perfect my form.”

Focus Off the Court

Off the court, Mike keeps his focus tight.

“Right now, just really focusing on schoolwork, doing homework outside of basketball, and a lot of recovery as a big part of my game. I don't do too much outside of basketball as that's my main drive.”

First Impressions

I posed the question: if a college coach or recruiter walked into the gym today, what would they notice right away?

“My ability to make shots. Not a lot of small guards have that ability, but I hope a coach would be able to see that I am capable of doing that, and my motor,” he said.

Anticipating Recognition

Mike believes his moment is coming soon. When I asked him what he thinks is missing, he responded:

“Not really missing that much; everything happens for a reason. I feel like everyone that's been sleeping on me—teams and coaches—are definitely going to wake up this year.”

Sources of Inspiration

I followed up by asking who he draws inspiration from, both past and present.

“Past, I got to go with Kobe Bryant, and present has to be Rob Dillingham.”

Conclusion

Mike Strickland is a name coaches should be circling now. His mix of basketball IQ, standout defensive skills, and ability to make shots all around the court as a lethal shooter means he’s no longer waiting to be recognized; he’s earning it every chance he gets to make his mark.

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Mike Strickland Commanding the Offense