Austin Keel working hard to improve

Winter Springs Bears guard Austin Keel was introduced to basketball at an early age. His father, Rick Keel was an All-American at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. It did not take long before Austin began itching to play like his dad. Having the added luxury of a basketball court in his backyard made it easier to practice from dusk until dawn. Keel attributes a lot of his success to his father Rick, “He has taught me everything I know about the game.” He added, “Without his help there is no way I could be in the position I am in today.”

Keel blossomed into a scoring threat during the 2009-2010 season. He was especially deadly from 3-point range, draining 69 three-point shots. Rated a two-star athlete on Scout.com Keel can handle both point guard and shooting guard positions. During the Disney Easter Classic, Keel led his Florida Gold Coast AAU travel team to a championship while being named tournament MVP. His confidence level is at an all time high, “I truly believe I can win any game no matter who we play,” Keel said.

He has been contacted by over ten programs including Texas Tech, Minnesota, and Princeton but would prefer to wait until he goes on his official visits to make anything official. Keel believes all the experience he is gaining should pay off. “I’m not just happy to be on the floor now.” “I’m looking to make an impact in the game,” Keel reiterated. He did just that, during this past fall’s Tampa Hoops Classic. With 1.9 seconds left against Clearwater High School Keel caught, a half court pass and in one motion drilled the shot to win the game. “One of my most memorable moments so far in my basketball career,” Keel said.

As the dog days of summer creep up closer, you will know where to find Austin Keel. “Were playing in a big time tournament in New York called “The Rumble in the Bronx” and in July we are playing in the Charleston Shootout.” One thing is for sure, Austin Keel will be a household name in the next couple seasons if he continues to work hard.