SLU’s Max Pikaar shoots a three-pointer during a practice drill on Sept. 23, 2024, at Chaifetz Arena in St. Louis.
Zachary Linhares, Post-Dispatch
“It was one of the first times having a big role on the team,” Pikaar said of the U-20s for Netherlands. “I had a big role in Wichita, but the national team is different. It felt bigger. That’s why I improved over the summer. I’d never played the European Championships. I felt I improved my leadership.”
It remains unclear what roles they might play at SLU in their first season, but both have been cleared by the NCAA.
Brockhoff is a potential backup to Robbie Avila as he possesses some of the same strengths as a perimeter shooter and passer. Pikaar is unusual as a nearly 7-foot guard with a 7-2 wing span and the ability to shoot and defend smaller players.
Pikaar spent two weeks at SLU at the start of the summer and got a taste of what was in store. Brockhoff’s first exposure to the team came in August.
“What we do is more of a European style,” Brockhoff said. “I knew a little from watching film and being recruited. I know the system now, but there are small details. I can shoot pretty well and handle and create for others.”
Brockhoff has been in the German national system since 2019, when he started with the under-16 team. He has traveled extensively throughout Europe since that time.
Pikaar left home for the final two years of high school to attend the Orange Lions Academy in Amsterdam, which is about 20 miles from his hometown. He needs to add weight and said he has gained five pounds since arriving on campus.
When discussing Pikaar’s position and assets, Schertz has said he hopes Pikaar will become a “unicorn” with perimeter skills that belie his size.
“When I was young, I would always dribble up court and do stuff guards would do because I wasn’t physical enough,” Pikaar said. “On defense we switch a lot, and with my length I can step out and guard smaller guards. I can still guard bigger guys in the post and put up a fight.”
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Publish date : 2024-09-27 14:15:00
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