NERR-TV Frosh/Soph Virtual Showcase - Matt Raffa

Sunday, December 6th, 2020

The release of this year's Elite 75 Frosh/Soph is right around the corner and, as such, more young prospects continue to audition for a spot on that exclusive list through our virtual showcase series. 

Up next, is one of the most talented young players in the state of Rhode Island, Barring and BCRI freshman Matt Raffa. 

The point guard comes from good stock and a basketball family. In fact, the gym at St. Andrew's School (located just across the street from Barrington High School) is named after his grandfather. 

Here's everything you need to know about this talented young player. 

Personal Statement

"I am a low-maintenance, dependable point guard that loves to compete, work, and learn everyday. I take pride in being able to play on and off the ball, guard multiple positions, and rebound. Whether it is turning an offense over or picking up full court, I will do what it takes to win. I am a high level decision maker with the ball in my hands constantly getting the ball into high percentage scoring opportunities and then converting. My jump shot has become constant in complimenting my ability to finish with both hands. I have and am investing a lot of time into improving my body in the weight room and am getting better each and every every day. Any coach who believes in me would get a great person and someone who loves the process." 

Recommendations

"Matt is a do it all combo guard that can score it in bunches. He is very versatile and provides us the ability to run the offense through him as well as the confidence to move off the ball and be the team's knock down shooter. Most teams are caught off guard with his ability to consistently make deep 3's and when they begin to adjust, Matt makes the right play every time by either dishing it to a teammate or getting to the hoop and finishing with either hand. Matt is the ultimate team player and proves so by setting the tone on defense, communicating loudly and the willingness to take charges. I have been very impressed with the progress Matt has been making and very excited to watch his continued growth."
- Josh Cabrera, Head Coach, BCRI 9th Grade Team & Moses Brown School

"Matt is a gym rat, who truly enjoys the process and the game of basketball. He plays with enthusiasm and it shows as he always has a smile on his face every time he enters the gym. Matt's game is very mature for his age, with the leadership to match. He is a very unselfish teammate that wants his teammates to succeed just as badly as he wants to. Matts combo guard skills and ability to score it at all three levels combined with his deep shooting touch make him tough to defend in any setting."
- Pat Dame, BCRI Director 

“I’ve had the pleasure of coaching Matt Raffa for just over two years now. What stands out the most about Matt is his ability to be a student of the game at such a young age. He has a deep passion for basketball which leads to a tremendous work ethic and the desire to gather and apply as much basketball knowledge as possible. Matt uses this knowledge on the defensive side of the ball as well as the offensive. As a player, Matt stands out right away with the ability to consistently knock down long range shots. He won’t wow coaches with his athleticism but he has a knack for getting to his spot offensively and making plays. He uses his body very well to protect the basketball and shield defenders while changing speeds to easily get in the paint. There is no doubt that Matt is going to continue to improve each and every time he steps on the court which is why he is a very intriguing prospect. When getting ready for tip off, I feel much better when Matt Raffa is on my side!” 
- Kyle Van Rossum, BCRI Coach & Wheeler High School Varsity Assistant Head Coach.

Video Highlights

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