A relative unknown until the start of the high school season, Grant Shephard has steadily seen his stock improve thanks to his involvement around the basket, versatility in the frontcourt, and quality amounts of athleticism. A 6-foot-8 power forward by way of British Columbia, the late blooming senior is just now announcing himself to the rest of the nation running with the talented Montverde Academy program this year.

Having not played an ounce of travel basketball last summer but getting a run with the Canadian U-17 team that competed in Spain, Shephard is not a total unknown but he sure is close to it. Due to the limited amount of quality big men options late in the recruiting calendar and because of Shephard’s upside, motor, and involvement from 20-feet and in, college programs have begun to familiarize themselves with the Montverde senior.

While strength gain and experience remain the two primary components that Shephard must gain ahold of, the upside that he represents and his nose for the basketball has enabled for his recruitment to pick up steam. “California, Richmond, Davidson, and San Diego are the ones in touch with me the most often,” Shepard stated, of which Richmond is the lone program to offer the prospering big man.

There has been some debate as to whether Shephard is a member of the 2017 class or not, though he did confirm that he hopes to graduate this year and attend college next fall. Hoping to visit California in the spring, while things are just beginning, the 6-foot-8 forward did speak on what he is looking for in a college. “Good coaching and a place that develops me,” Shephard said. “I want to develop my handles and shot and I know that the coaches can help me with that. I don’t want to go to a place that is centered all around its guard but can use their big men.”

Look for more eyes and attention to be placed onto Grant Shephard and with the proper seasoning and further production given, for the Canadian forward’s stock to soar in the coming weeks competing on a national schedule with the Montverde Academy squad.