KUA’s Rada D1 Bound
Elon University head coach Matt Matheny was one of the first coaches in the gym this past Sunday at the Scholar Roundball Classic.
He was there bright and early for the tip of the 9:30am game between Kimball Union Academy and Phillips Andover Academy to get a look at KUA's big man Duje Rada.
Rada finished with 10 points but his skill level and high I.Q. were nonetheless immediately noticeable, just as they had been all fall in KUA's open gym. Before the day was out Elon had offered him a scholarship and by Monday morning he had accepted.
Proud to announce my commitmet to play Basketball at Elon University. Thank you to everyone who helped me along the way. Go Elon! pic.twitter.com/pLQ6Wouizv
— Duje Rada (@RadaDuje) December 12, 2016
Rada is the son of former Boston Celtic Dino Rada, although as he explains the name was mistakenly spelled Radja for all of his father's NBA career. Duje has a style that is similar to that of his father's as he can play both facing the basket or with his back to it, has a high release and very soft touch.
Rada is also a talented passer and capable facilitator from either the post or the elbow. His conditioning is a bit of a work in progress, but he's already made strides since arriving at KUA and once his body gets right, he has a chance to become a very productive player at the next level.
Rada is the first player from this year's team to make his college decision but his commitment marks the 8th consecutive year that KUA has produced a division I player.
Duje Rada