‘Mr Basketball’ Eric Dixon opens up on his journey to Villanova and what lies ahead

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2019 Villanova commit Eric Dixon is one of the most underrated basketball prospects in the nation. When he is on the floor, you know about it. At 6-7, 250 lbs, he will bully you inside and he can be a handful in transition. Dixon has three-point range so he can be a threat in many ways, not to mention being one of the best rebounders in the country.

I followed his recruitment as Villanova continued to pursue the Abington high school star. Duke got involved along with other schools but Villanova gained the commitment. During the process of Dixon’s recruitment, Villanova coaches raved about Dixon. Just the other day I talked with a Villanova coach we talked about how good the Philadelphia power forward will be.

Eric Dixon was named Mr. Basketball of Pennsylvania, and rightfully so. He averaged 27.9 points 11.6 rebounds and was the only player in Abington high school history to score 2,000 career points with a total of 2,454 points.

His last season in AAU was stunning as well. He averaged 16.8 points and 7.1 rebounds, leading WE R1 to a 5-1 record. He is a three time PIAA Class 6A champion his senior season he scored the most total points in a season for Abington high school with 838. Ranked a 4-star recruit by ESPN, Rivals, and 247 sports, I rate him a 5-star. We talked about his recent honor and if he is recruiting any prospects to the program.

LJ: First off congratulations. How did it feel to be named Mr. Basketball of Pennsylvania?

Eric: It’s a humbling moment any time I’m recognized for an award because I play for more than myself when I’m on the floor.
 
LJ: How excited are you to get started with Villanova?

Eric: I’m excited to get working and just being fully committed to the grind of making myself a better person and player.
 
 LJ: How close are you to the other 2019 commits?

Eric: I knew them before they committed so we have a good connection with one another.

LJ: What do you think of the commitment of Chris Arcidiacono to the 2019 basketball class?

Eric: It’s good for the culture, I think his talents are being underrated by some but he’ll prove himself.

LJ: What do you feel was your best game this season? What were the stats of that game?

Eric: The win vs Sankofa, it was a fast-paced, well-matched game and at sort of a turning point in the season. 47 points 19 rebounds 2 blocks.

LJ: Describe the level of competition in the Philadelphia basketball circuit?

Eric: There are a lot of good players especially in the 2019 class with players with a variety of skill sets.

LJ: Who are some of the toughest Philly prospects you have played?

Eric: Donta Scott, Hakim Hart, and Seth Lundy

LJ: You have been a dominant force this season. What was the difference in your game this season that made you a better player?

Eric: Mental aspects of the game and how I approach it. I feel just becoming a more balanced person in life helped me become a better player on the court.

LJ: What has Jay Wright told you about your role next season for Villanova?

Eric: Nothing much, just to come in ready to work.

LJ: Are you trying to recruit any prospects to Villanova? Who?

Eric: Jabri Abdu-Rahim, Lynn Greer a few of the only young guys I even think we’re recruiting.

LJ: How will you impact Villanova when it’s your time to shine?

Eric: Playing with toughness and physicality.