Versatile: 1) able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities.. Or
2) embracing a variety of subjects, fields, or skills.
Being versatile is a key factor in what makes Jabri Abdur-Rahim tick. When the talented wing moved to New Jersey, he searched for a balanced environment that provided high quality basketball and academics. Jabri didn’t have to search long as he found a home at Seton Hall Prep.
The match-made in heaven has reaped a fruitful harvest for both parties so far.” I know basketball is something I want to do in the future, but it’s important to get a good education,” said Jabri. “Seton Hall Prep had the best balance of basketball and academics in the state.” In regards to his play, no word better describes Jabri than versatile. He’s crafty down low and shows amazing skill and coordination for his size away from the rim. His ability to be effective on both sides of the floor is a major reason Seton Hall Prep is a contender to win it all this year.
Recently we sat down with Jabri to discuss, Team Rio, Team U.S.A. mini-camp, Seton Hall Prep basketball and more. - by Christian Mordi / @thedribbledrop
TheDribbleDrop: Let’s talk about this off season. This spring you played AAU for Team Rio. How was that experience?
Jabri Abdur-Rahim: I had a great experience playing for Team Rio this year. We had former Rutgers head coach Mike Rice as my coach. That played a huge part in my decision to play with them this summer. I learned a lot playing for him. He expanded my view on certain parts of the game for sure. He taught me a lot of stuff on defense. He really coached me up on the defensive side of the floor in late game situations. I think I became a better defensive player. We played up a year, which was good for my growth as well.
TheDribbleDrop: You recently played on the Team USA mini camp. Tell me about that experience?
Jabri Abdur-Rahim: It was a lot of fun, we played against the 2018 older guys. It was challenging, but it was a great experience for me. It was great for me to see where I could be in two years if I continued to work hard.
TheDribbleDrop: I saw Lynn Greer was there. Very talented basketball player. I heard you guys are cool.
Jabri Abdur-Rahim: Lynn is one of my best friends. We played a couple games and camps together. We always check in on each other to talk basketball and life.
TheDribbleDrop: So, you’re at Seton Hall Prep. I’m sure you had numerous opportunities to play at different schools coming in as a freshman. Why did you decide this was the best place for you.
Jabri Abdur-Rahim: My parents and I are really big on academics. I know basketball is something I want to do in the future, but it’s important to get a good education. Seton Hall Prep had the best balance of basketball and academics in the state.
TheDribbleDrop: How would you describe Seton Hall Prep basketball?
Jabri Abdur-Rahim: Gritty. We do a lot of things that other teams won’t do. We play really hard on defense and we play together on offense. We take pride in being tough on both sides of the floor.
TheDribbleDrop: You guys have one of the best students sections in the state. They call themselves “Pirate Nation.” Let’s talk about them.
Jabri Abdur-Rahim: Pirate Nation is amazing. When we have a themed event and everyone comes, it can play a huge effect in the game in regards to the atmosphere. We play as hard as possible for them. They love to get in opponent's head and throw them off their game as well.
TheDribbleDrop: Your dad is Shareef Abdur-Rahim. He’s a former NBA all star that has played the game at a high level. How is it like having a dad like that in your corner go bounce ideas off?
Jabri Abdur-Rahim: My dad gives me stuff other people can’t give as he has played on the highest level. We talk after every game in regards to the things I did right and wrong that game. He always tells me ways I can improve and get better in a positive way.
TheDribbleDrop: If you were to use one word to describe your game, what would it be?
Jabri Abdur-Rahim: Versatile. I think I can do a lot of things offensively. I’m 6’7, and for my the wing spot I can do a variety of things in different spaces on the floor. If you put a smaller guy on me I will go in the post. If you put a bigger guy on me I will attack in space.
TheDribbleDrop: Tell me one facet of your game your worked hard to improve on this off-season that you wanted to take to another level.
Jabri Abdur-Rahim: I worked hard on my left hand this summer. I was a bit right hand dominant before. I worked very hard this summer to be able to go both ways offensively.
TheDribbleDrop: Right now you are uncommitted. What is one thing you are looking for from a program?
Jabri Abdur-Rahim: It’s early now, but I have started to pay attention to games and the stuff teams run when I’m watching. I want a coach that will push me to the next level that I want to go. Right now I’m not concerned with their style really. I just want a coach that puts me in position to show what I can do.
TheDribbleDrop: What’s your personal and team goal for your sophomore year.
Jabri Abdur-Rahim: A personal goal would be to make first team All-County and First Team All-State. A team goal would be to win our non-public bracket and win a state championship.