"Timeless Grit: The All Around Force Redefining Old School Basketball"

Noah Lopez

@NoahLopez32

IG: @noah.lopez08

6’4, 200lbs, Class of 2027

Oakwood School, CA

Noah is a dynamic, old-school hybrid forward with a modern twist. He plays with power, poise, and purpose, bringing a complete package of strength, IQ, and versatility that makes him a true force on the floor. He thrives on contact, attacking the rim with ferocity and finishing through defenders. His middy is smooth and nearly automatic, a lost art he has made his calling card. He has a knack for rebounding like a seasoned veteran, fighting for position and owning the glass on both ends, channeling shades of his basketball inspiration, Dennis Rodman. Add in his court vision and crafty decision-making, and you get a player who does not just score but elevates everyone around him.

Noah’s ability to play and guard multiple positions, ranging from the 3 to even the 5, sets him apart. His footwork, strength, and lateral movement allow him to defend players taller and heavier while still being able to switch onto guards. Offensively, he is unselfish yet aggressive, capable of dissecting defenses with his passing or punishing mismatches in the post. His “be quick but don’t rush” mentality, a lesson from his Mitty JV coach Dalton Gary, has molded his calm, controlled pace into a defining trait.

Last season, Noah averaged 14.7 points, 9.8 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game while shooting 46 percent from the field, nearly a double-double stat line that speaks to his versatility and impact. His biggest improvement has been staying composed with the ball in high-pressure moments, making smart reads, and leading by example. He worked relentlessly this offseason to sharpen his perimeter defense and transform his three-point shot, now developing into a consistent and reliable set jumper.

His experience being pulled up to varsity as a sophomore was transformative. Competing under Coach Tim Kennedy and learning from one of the most accomplished staffs in California gave him a front-row seat to elite competition and high-level basketball. Though his varsity minutes were limited, the lessons were invaluable, preparation, composure, and leadership. Now at Oakwood, Noah carries that knowledge forward, determined to help his team contend for a Division 5 CCS Section title.

Coaches can rely on Noah for grit, toughness, and unrelenting effort. He is the guy who will dive for loose balls, box out bigger players, and make the extra pass.. Historically, when Noah gobbles up over 10 rebounds, his team’s win rate is nearly perfect. That hunger for success drives him every time he steps on the court. What fires him up the most is not just scoring, it is watching his teammates flow together, seeing everyone contribute to a collective win, and building something bigger than himself.

When faced with adversity, Noah stays grounded. Whether it is officiating, opponents, or in-game mistakes, he never loses composure. He analyzes the situation, stays quiet, and lets his game do the talking. That maturity separates him from most high school players. Left-handed and nearly unguardable from his dominant side, he is also working to strengthen his right hand to become an even more unpredictable offensive threat.

Off the court, Noah enjoys spending time with his friends, girlfriend Mia, his biggest supporter, and family. He is passionate about building Legos, birdwatching, and watching his favorite NFL team, the San Francisco 49ers, live whenever possible. That grounded side complements his competitive fire, making him a complete individual on and off the hardwood.

I assess that Noah is a versatile, high-IQ forward whose blend of strength, skill, and leadership gives him the tools to thrive at the next level. His ability to rebound, facilitate, and score efficiently makes him a matchup nightmare for defenders. Coaches love his willingness to do the dirty work, play multiple positions, and make smart decisions under pressure. His calm demeanor, paired with relentless effort, gives him the foundation of a dependable, college-ready player.

With his combination of toughness, maturity, and basketball IQ, Noah is well-equipped for long-term success. Expect him to take on a leadership role and guiding a young squad through cpetitive play while continuing to refine his outside shot and defensive versatility. His game embodies grit and growth, and his balance of selflessness and competitiveness ensures he will keep climbing. Noah is the picture of what happens when old school fundamentals meet modern-day drive.