Jason Preston may not have been the most promising basketball player in high school, but his determination and hard work have taken him to the top. The 6-foot-tall player from Boone High in Orlando, Florida, was often overlooked by scouts due to his small stature and low scoring average. However, with the support of his mother Judith Sewell and his own perseverance, Preston has defied all odds and become a rising star in the world of basketball.
Growing up, Jason Preston had a difficult childhood. His father was absent from his life, leaving his mother Judith to raise him and his two siblings on her own. Despite the challenges, Judith was determined to provide her children with a good life and instill in them the values of hard work and dedication. She worked multiple jobs to make ends meet and always made sure her children had everything they needed.
From a young age, Preston showed a love for basketball. He would often spend hours playing in his backyard, perfecting his skills and dreaming of one day playing in the big leagues. However, his small stature and lack of recognition in high school made it difficult for him to get noticed by college scouts. But Judith never lost faith in her son and always encouraged him to keep working hard and never give up on his dreams.
After graduating from high school, Preston was not offered any scholarships to play college basketball. But he refused to let that discourage him. He decided to take a gap year and work on his game, hoping to catch the attention of college coaches. During this time, he played in various amateur leagues and worked on improving his skills and physical strength.
Preston’s hard work paid off when he caught the eye of the coaching staff at Ohio University. He was offered a spot on the team as a walk-on player, meaning he would not receive a scholarship but could earn one through his performance on the court. This was a huge opportunity for Preston, and he grabbed it with both hands.
In his first year at Ohio University, Preston played sparingly, but he made the most of every opportunity he got. He impressed his coaches and teammates with his work ethic and determination. In his second year, he earned a scholarship and became a key player for the team. He averaged 16.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game, earning him a spot on the All-MAC Third Team.
Preston’s performance in his junior year caught the attention of NBA scouts, and he decided to declare for the 2021 NBA Draft. He was projected to be a late second-round pick, but his impressive showing at the NBA Combine and individual workouts raised his stock. He was eventually selected by the Los Angeles Clippers with the 33rd overall pick and was immediately traded to the Dallas Mavericks.
For Preston, getting drafted into the NBA was a dream come true. But for his mother Judith, it was a moment of immense pride and joy. She had been there for her son every step of the way, supporting and encouraging him even when others doubted his abilities. And now, she could see all of his hard work and determination paying off.
In an interview, Preston credited his mother for his success, saying, “She’s been my rock. She’s been there for me through everything. She’s my biggest supporter, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without her.” He also mentioned that he hoped to use his platform as an NBA player to inspire and motivate others who may be going through similar struggles.
Today, Jason Preston is a rising star in the NBA, and his future looks bright. But he has not forgotten his roots and the sacrifices his mother made for him. He continues to work hard and improve his game, always striving to be the best version of himself. And with his mother by his side, there is no doubt that he will achieve great things in the world of basketball.
In conclusion, Jason Preston’s journey from being an overlooked high school player to an NBA draft pick is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and the unwavering support of a mother’s love. His story is an inspiration to all those who may be facing challenges and obstacles in their own lives. With the right attitude and perseverance, anything is possible. And for Jason Preston, the sky’s the limit.
