
Sharp-shooter gives 3-point shot pointers
HUNTLEY — Huntley senior Ian Ravagnie has enjoyed a solid start to the 2022-23 season, as have the Red Raiders’ boys basketball team with a 12-3 record. Ravagnie so far averaged a team-best 13.3 points and six rebounds per game, with a 16-point effort against Belvidere North at the DeKalb Holiday Tournament.
Prior to the four-game tourney, he discussed his love of basketball, his as well as his and other teammates’ abilities to shoot three-pointers and why he admires Steph Curry, in a series of questions for My Huntley News. Ravagnie is a 6-4 forward and one of many players who can make a three-point basket.
How did you get your start in basketball?
Ian Ravagnie: “My dad and other brothers were the ones to get me started. I used to go to my brother’s practices when I was little and shoot around on the side hoops and try to be just like them.”
Describe your team’s three-point shooting skills, discuss the mechanics you use to increase chances of making them?
Ravagnie: “Our team shoots the ball really well. We do a lot of drills that focus on three-point shooting. We really emphasize shooting every shot as if it was a game shot. It really helps you set for when it comes to game time. There is a lot of different mechanics that fall into shooting. Personally I always start off with form shooting to get my shot going, I slowly move back to the three-point line, I tend to focus on the back of the rim as my aiming guide. Having a place that you focus on helps you when it comes to shooting and the spot may vary per player. It is all about form, too. You have to keep a consistent form with just the right arch and power. I shoot a lot of shots in the off-season focusing on my form and getting my shot right.”
He added, “the more you shoot, the more consistent you get. You get to understand your shot and the reasons why you are missing, If I miss a few in a row I know something is wrong with my jump shot. Whether it be shooting too flat, not enough legs or flicking my wrist in a weird way.”
What did you emphasize in your summer workouts?
Ravagnie: “We as a team emphasized the importance of building chemistry with each other. With lots of seniors graduating last year there were lots of spots to fill. We had to understand each other’s play style and game so we can succeed and play our best. Personally, I focused on being a leader, being a role model for younger guys and helping guide them.”
Favorite NBA or college level players and their basketball skills you admire?
Ravagnie: “Steph Curry (Golden State Warriors), I really admire his ability to shoot, To be able to shoot that deep contested and off the bounce while all being consistent is something few can do.”
Which teammates can really lighten a mood at practice?
Ravagnie: “Bryce Walker, he is such a good kid. He lights up any mood he is in. His energy and laughter are so contagious. If you are not feeling in a good mood you definitely will be after being with him.”
Any other sports you have been involved in, or activities?
Ravaginie: “I have played basketball my whole life. I golf here and there but besides that, it is strictly basketball.”