While many college football fans have become familiar with Riley Leonard during his impressive tenure as Notre Dame’s starting quarterback this season, his journey began much earlier. Before he donned the Fighting Irish colors, Leonard was making waves as a standout athlete at Fairhope High School in Alabama. His remarkable versatility as a two-sport star has shaped him into the player we see today.
Riley Leonard’s High School Athletic Journey
Leonard’s athletic prowess was evident during his high school years, where he excelled not just on the football field but also on the basketball court. As a three-star recruit, he was ranked as the 58th quarterback in the high school class of 2021 by 247Sports. His dynamic play led to scholarship offers from notable programs like Duke, Nebraska, Ole Miss, and Tulane. But what many fans might not know is that his talents extended beyond football.
Did Riley Leonard Play Basketball?
Absolutely! Leonard was not just a member of Fairhope’s varsity basketball team; he was a true standout. During his junior year, he averaged an impressive 20.9 points and 8.5 rebounds per game, which earned him recognition as one of three finalists for the Class 7A Player of the Year honors in Alabama. This kind of performance is not just a footnote; it highlights his incredible skill set and competitive spirit.
Leonard’s basketball talents caught the attention of several Division I programs, including Missouri State, North Alabama, Samford, and St. Mary’s. It’s no surprise, considering his family background—his father played collegiately at The Citadel, and his uncle played at Georgetown. With such a lineage, it’s clear that athleticism runs in the family.
The Tough Decision: Football or Basketball?
As Leonard navigated his high school career, there was genuine debate about whether he would pursue basketball or football at the collegiate level. In fact, during his junior year in 2020, he candidly stated, “It’s probably 75-25 football right now.” This indicates that while football was leading, basketball was still a significant consideration for him.
However, as the pandemic disrupted the 2020 AAU basketball season, Leonard faced a pivotal moment. He reflected on how COVID-19 affected his recruitment, leading him to focus more on football. “When Covid hit during my junior year of high school, I didn’t have a chance to get out and play on the [Nike Elite Youth Basketball League] circuit and ended up staying home and getting more work in as a quarterback,” he wrote in a personal journal entry titled “My Story.”
With the lack of basketball opportunities, Leonard dedicated himself to honing his skills as a quarterback. This decision has certainly paid off, as he is now among the elite quarterbacks vying for a chance to lead their teams to the 2024 national championship.
Riley Leonard’s Basketball Highlights
Leonard’s basketball abilities were on full display during his junior year. He made significant contributions to his team, showcasing his scoring ability and rebounding skills. Here are some highlights from a holiday tournament in January 2020 that illustrate his dynamic play on the court.
Leonard’s basketball journey may have taken a backseat to football, but it undoubtedly contributed to his overall athletic development. The agility, hand-eye coordination, and competitive nature he displayed on the court have translated well into his football career.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Riley Leonard
As Leonard continues to shine as a quarterback for Notre Dame, it’s fascinating to think about how his past experiences in basketball have shaped his current success. His ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and maintain poise under pressure can be traced back to his time on the basketball court.
With each game, Leonard is proving that he made the right choice by focusing on football. His journey from Fairhope High School to the national spotlight is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and athletic versatility.
As he aims for greatness in college football, fans can only wonder what the future holds for this talented athlete. Will he lead Notre Dame to a national championship? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: Riley Leonard’s story is just beginning, and it promises to be an exciting ride for both him and college football fans alike.
