Kanye West continues to make headlines in 2021, this time with plans to build a high school basketball powerhouse at Donda Academy, a new private school in Simi Valley, Calif.
West's marriage to Kim Kardashian and 10th studio album "Donda" have made him one of the biggest newsmakers of the year. Now, it appears Yeezy is turning his attention to the prep basketball scene where he's compiling top talent from around the nation.
Jalen Hooks of Indiana confirmed his decision to head west with Kyle Niddenriep of the
IndyStar today.
"It's just one of those things you can't pass up," Hooks told Niddenriep. "It was more of a family decision, too. All of us just felt like it was a chance to reach my full potential and grow and get ready for the college level."
The 6-foot-7 junior is regarded as the No. 69 prospect in the Class of 2023. Hooks earned MaxPreps Sophomore All-American status after averaging 11.1 points, 8.4 rebounds and 3.3 assists last season.
Top 10 junior
Robert Dillingham is also rumored to be attending the school according to reports from the
Charlotte Observer. His father, however, has since denied the report. Dillingham earned first team MaxPreps Sophomore All-American honors after averaging 21.2 points, 4.9 assists, 4.1 rebounds and 2.1 steals per contest for Combine Academy (Lincolnton, N.C.).
Highly-regarded Class of 2024 prospect
Jakhi Howard will also reportedly join the Donda Academy program after spending his freshman year at Norcross (Ga.).
Donda Academy hasn't announced a schedule or detailed plans for the program but momentum appears to be building toward the startup being a serious player on the national scene.
Jalen Hooks is among the highly-regarded prospects reportedly headed to Donda Academy.
File photo by Tyler Hart
