Drew Lundberg, a senior athlete from West Aurora, made a significant transition from playing tight end in football to taking on a post role in basketball. This change followed a recommendation from coach Michael Fowler, who saw potential in Lundberg, a 6-foot-4 player, to contribute more effectively to the team.
Last Friday, Lundberg showcased his skills by scoring nine points and grabbing four rebounds in West Aurora”s 64-49 victory over Bartlett. He noted that the adjustment to his new position wasn”t overly challenging, largely due to his previous experience in football, which familiarized him with physical play. “When he suggested switching to a little bit of a big man and filling that role, I figured whatever the coaches need from me I”ll do,” Lundberg stated.
In the same game, junior guard Travis Brown led the Blackhawks with 20 points, contributing significantly to their effort to avenge an earlier loss to Bartlett. Brown emphasized the noticeable improvement in Lundberg”s performance this season, highlighting his enhanced shooting and defensive skills. “There”s a big difference from last year to this year with Drew. He stepped his game up on the 3-point line, defensive end and rebounding. He plays hard,” Brown said.
West Aurora”s head coach, Michael Fowler, expressed his initial concern at halftime when the team led by only five points, recalling the previous matchup where they struggled defensively. A transition to a 1-3-1 zone defense proved effective against Bartlett, allowing West Aurora to regain control of the game and secure the win.
Lundberg”s development has been supported by his participation with his M-14 AAU team during the offseason, where he focused on becoming a more versatile player. “I would say working hard every day, finding myself, like not just being an offensive player but developing my game really on the defensive end,” he explained.
As he continues to adapt to his role, Lundberg has gained the trust of his coach, who encourages him to take open shots. “I told him he had to play inside, be a screener, a pick-and-pop guy and he”s taken to it,” Fowler remarked.
Lundberg now shares post responsibilities with 6-foot-8 junior Jordan Weeks, who joined the team recently. As he pursues his dream of playing college basketball at the NCAA Division III level for Lawrence, Lundberg remains focused on making the most of his final season. “My hopes and expectations, obviously, are winning with my team and having the best time out there because after this year I”m done wearing this uniform,” he stated.
In a reflection on his journey, Lundberg acknowledged the evolution of his game, stating, “Funny thing about AAU, starting out I used to play point guard. This year has been a big switch, but whatever role the team needs, I”ll play.”
