Yes, you read that correctly. Derrick. Herrick. Herrick grew up in Louisiana, and spent the first 14 years of his life in the extremely family- oriented Cajun Culture. The move lined up with Herrick’s basketball development, as he recalls grabbing a rim in 8th grade for the first time. His athleticism always shined through, and he eventually high jumped 6’ and 2” in the offseason. (Track sidebar: The maximum legal wind is 2.0 Meters/second. )He was just having fun with it, in his own words, but people began to ignite his curiosity surrounding his potential and aspirations. Herrick began to see just how far the game of basketball would take him. Ever since we met in the Spring of 2017, I knew that Derrick and I would get along, mostly due to our shared love for basketball and similar sense of humor. Herrick began playing Varsity at Lifestyle Christian Academy, taking the game more seriously his junior year. After a successful basketball career, Herrick had his sights set on college. Though he accumulated lots of interest across all levels, fate would have it that Herrick would spent 1 more year in high school. He traveled up to Pennsylvania to compete at Hoop Group, and it was there that he first learned of the Post Graduate experience. One thing led to another and Herrick was between Phillips Andover and Williston Northampton, both NEPSAC class A(Basketball)schools in Massachusetts. He prepared as if he was going to college, and stayed busy with showcases during the 2017 summer. During the 2017-18 year, Derrick suited up for Andover basketball alongside local legend Dallion Johnson(now at Penn State) and under coach Terrell Ivory. Herrick brought flare with his crafty finishes, range and quiet confidence. Each game was competitive, with elite talent and size on opposing teams, including the likes of Terrance Clarke(Rivers), Cole Swider(St.Andrews), Marcus Zegarowski(Tilton)and Cormac Ryan(Milton). Herrick averaged 14/5/4 and garnered interest at all levels and a few offers. He sent his own tape out to 10 schools a night for nearly a month, and ended up at Midland college, a JUCO in Texas. Though an injury cut his time short for them, he was able to play in front of scouts, which gave him hope. On the court and off the court issues led to a redshirt and transfer from Midland, which was a blessing in disguise. The name of the game was work for Herrick. When people google “grind in silence”, they should see a picture of 2019 Herrick, as motivated as ever. He worked on his knee, his mental health, himself and literally worked long shifts to keep busy. It was divine timing for Herrick, as he played at a showcase at Dallas Baptist. It was nothing new to play in a showcase, but he had something to prove coming off of injury. His emails from his high school days eventually paid dividends, when a coach at Midwestern State noticed him from there. 2 years later Herrick was stronger, more athletic, and hitting 3’s which led to the offer. In the future, Derrick hopes to play professionally, whether it be in America or overseas. Coronavirus may put this upcoming season on hold, but whenever Herrick gets his next opportunity, one thing is for sure. He’ll be ready. Recorded 9. 27. 20.
