2022 Intro: Gradey Dick
As THI continues to introduce some of the sophomores that are on the North Carolina radar, Gradey Dick from Collegiate in Wichita, KS, is a young prospect who already has a bunch of high level offers and has already received some love from the UNC coaches.
Dick, who is known for his outstanding jumper and bouncy athleticism, sees himself as a versatile guy who can play almost anywhere on the court.
“I’d say I’m a 6-7 all-around player than can guard one through five,” he told THI.
“I grew up playing point and handling the ball and I’m also point guard for my high school team. But I see myself as more of a wing player in the future with my size and length. I was also mainly a shooter growing up, so once I started to grow and get more athletic, I’ve been able to finish above the rim a lot easier.”
With his rangy body, beautiful jump shot and ability to score, the Wichita sophomore says that he’s heard comparisons to one of the NBA’s most pure shooters. But he actually feels that there’s a former UNC wing that he compares more favorably to.
“Some people compare my game to Ray Allen because of the higher release on our shots,” he said. “I actually kind of think my game is similar to Justin Jackson’s because of his length, shooting ability, and ability to finish above the rim. “
Surely with his size, skill set, versatility and athleticism, the schools are already all over him and he has a pretty distinguished list of offers from regional power programs. He told Tar Heel Illustrated about which ones had already communicated that they’d love to have him.
“I have offers from Kansas, Kansas State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Baylor, Nebraska, Wichita State, Creighton, Iowa State, Purdue and Texas Tech,” Dick said.
And North Carolina is also being mentioned early on as a program with its eye on Dick.
“(UNC) sent me a letter and my dad has talked to Coach (Steve) Robinson, so I’d say it’s an interest right now,” Dick said. “Coach Rob said that Coach (Brad) Frederick and Coach (Hubert) Davis watched me at the team USA minicamp and said I was one of the best players in the gym for the day. “
Even though it’s early, the Kansas prep star sees some things that are appealing to him as he looks towards an eventual collegiate decision.
“I really like Carolina’s play style and the way they get the ball up the court quick,” he said. “I’m also very interested in Carolina because of the guards and wing players they’ve had in the past. The historic tradition there is crazy and Coach (Roy) Williams is one of the best.”
Dick will play his spring and summer hoops with KC Pump n Run, where he’ll look to build on his national reputation. He’s currently rated the No. 30 prospect nationally in the class of 2022.