photo credit: Owasso Public Schools

VYPE: How did it feel seeing your name on the national roster? Talk about what that moment was like.

Jalen Montonati: It was amazing walking into the gym and seeing my last name on a jersey. It was definitely a surreal moment for me.

VYPE: Did you expect to have as productive of a freshman year as you had?

JM: Yes, I did, because I always believed in myself and the countless hours I put in to get me ready for the big moments that were thrown at me.

VYPE: What do you think you gained from your experience playing in the state tournament?

JM: I definitely gained some experience from that. It’s so competitive, you have to execute things to a very high level, and every play has to be like it’s going to be your last.

VYPE: How have you enjoyed playing with MOKAN? What has it done for you?

JM: I’ve loved MOKAN. My coaches there put me in situations where I can be successful and I have a great supporting staff around me but we all have one goal in mind, and that’s to win Peach Jam.

VYPE: After receiving quite a few offers in May, how do you feel about your recruiting outlook?

JM: All the offers that I have received have been a blessing, and I’m very grateful for the position I’m in right now. Hopefully I can get on some of those campuses soon.

VYPE: What are you looking for in your potential college?

JM: Good coaching, culture, how I will be used on the court and make sure that I can produce the way I know I can, and many other things.

VYPE: Are there any local guys who came before you that have influenced or motivated you?

JM: Yeah, most definitely, Bryce [Thompson] and Dave [Castillo] have gave me great advice, and I’m very grateful for those guys sharing their knowledge with me.

VYPE: “My sophomore season will be a success if ______.”

JM: My sophomore season will only be a success if I win a gold ball .