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Derrick Walton Jr. wins Michigan Gatorade player of the year award
DETRIOT – It may not have been the Mr.Basketball of Michigan award that so many felt he should have won, but Chandler Park Academy’s Derrick Walton Jr. is still getting his props and media recognition for a great year. Walton was named the Michigan Class B Player of the Year, and has also been named the state of Michigan Gatorade Player of the Year.
Walton started all four years on varsity for the Eagles, averaging 26.2 points,10.1 rebounds,and 7.7 assists. Walton also shot 73% from the field and 52% from beyond the arch.
"It’s an honor, and I am thrilled to win", said Walton of both awards.
Walton wasn’ t able to sweep all three postseason awards, finishing second in the Mr.Basketball voting to AAU teammate Monte Morris. Walton and Morris played for the Michigan Mustangs and led their team to an AAU natiionals title out in Las Vegas this past summer.
"I was happy for him", Walton said. "I know he would feel the same for me". "I think I had a great high school career, I just wish it ended a little differently", said Walton.
Chandler Park Academy lost to Detroit Country Day in the state regional semifinals last week. Walton will now take his talents to Ann Arbor and lace them up for the Wolverines. The 6-0 Walton already has high expectations at Michigan, as current point guard Trey Burke is having a stellar year of his own and has been followed by NBA rumors. ESPN ranks Walton as the No.35 overall prospect in the country, so to see him start next year for Michigan would be no surprise.
"I am really excited and I’m ready to go to work", said Walton.
