Power Picks Duke

Wednesday, September 7th, 2022

Power Picks Duke

Worcester Academy & BABC forward TJ Power announced his commitment to Duke yesterday live on 247Sports. 

Power started his decorated high school career off at Saint John’s in Shrewsbury, MA. He led the Pioneers to a 2020 CMass League Title and the MIAA Division 1 state semifinals. 

A decision was made after that season to reclassify into 2023 and move over to Worcester Academy. Power had an excellent 2021-22 season for the Hilltoppers. He was a central figure in them winning the NEPSAC Class AA championship, earning tournament MVP honors along with being selected to the ALL-NEPSAC team. The Massachusetts Gatorade Player of the Year was awarded to him as well. 

Power’s recruitment went to another level this summer playing with BABC on the Nike EYBL circuit. In the first EYBL session of July in Kansas City, he averaged 23.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. His strong play continued later in the month at the Peach Jam Invitational, averaging 15.3 points, 8.9 rebounds, 4.9 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.6 blocks per game. 

“Ever since I was little I wanted to play on the biggest stage and Duke is that,” said Power on the 247Sports YouTube broadcast. “The way Coach Scheyer is making his classes and teams really fits my style which is to play fast, move the ball, and be able to shoot.”

“The relationship with him is what got me. Being a younger coach, super relatable, and having a chip on his shoulder to prove himself is something I could really relate to. My visit to Duke opened my eyes. I saw a niche for me and a spot where I could really flourish during my meeting with Coach Scheyer.”

"TJ is one of the better teammates we have had in recent years," said Worcester assistant coach Dan Sullivan. "For as talented as he is, he puts individual stats aside and wants what is best for his team. His confidence has grown so much over the past year. He knows when to attack and when to defer to his teammates if they have a good matchup."

"TJ's jump shot is the result of thousands of repetitions and his confidence with that has grown so much over the past year as well. His understanding of how to play and ability to conceptualize the game and process sets, ideas, and game plans quickly (along with his selflessness and desire to win) will enable him to find success playing alongside other great players at Duke over the course of his career." 

Power becomes the second member of Worcester’s 2023 class to finalize their college plans.