John Bol is a former McDonald's All-American who is now contributing to the UCF basketball team
UCF center John Bol should have picked up basketball at an early age based on his famous lineage.
His father, Manute, was one of the most feared shot-blockers in NBA history. His brother, Bol, also made his way to the league.
As for John Bol, he was introduced to the game at a late age. Still, it hasn't prevented him from becoming a late bloomer.
"I started playing basketball five years ago," Bol told reporters this week. "I was just in the house playing video games—not really into sports much, but I did play a little soccer. That's basically why I'm able to move my feet the way I do. My mom got on me for playing video games—she said go outside and do something. There was a basketball court next to our house, and boom, I'm right here now."
Bol is in his first season with the Knights after beginning his college career with the Ole Miss Rebels. He was a four-star recruit in high school as a Top 60 player nationally and earned a spot in the prestigious McDonald's All-American game.
Things didn't go according to play at Ole Miss. He played sparingly as a freshman, prompting a transfer. This season, he's played in all nine games for the Knights. He averages seven points and 3.2 rebounds.
"So far it's been good," Bol said. "As a team we're winning—that's what you want. Individually, my confidence is coming back. Getting on the court, having that experience—with time I know I'm going to get there."
Bol has played a role in the Knights getting out to a fast start in non-conference play. They are 8-1 entering this week's game against Mercer. They have in-state matchups with Florida Gulf Coast and Florida Atlantic before things get real.
The Knights open Big 12 conference play against the Kansas Jayhawks Jan 3. They are led by top-rated freshman Darryn Peterson, who could be the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft next June.
While Peterson is hearing his name in mock drafts, Bol is just trying to find his way. Coach Johnny Dawkins has already applauded Bol's effort to improve this season.
"That's always been my energy. I bring a lot of energy in practice and games. I impact the game in so many different ways—defensively my length, just being there in the paint is a presence itself. It just helps me in general."
Shandel Richardson is the publisher of UCFRoundtable. He can be reached at shandelrich@gmail.com