Daily Growth: How AJ Swinton Aims for Excellence at Florida State University

TALLAHASSEE – AJ Swinton, a sophomore at Florida State, is all about improvement.

At 6’7″, this swingman has big goals for himself and his teammates. He’s working hard on his shooting skills to become a key scorer for the team. To thrive in head coach Luke Loucks’ fast-paced game, AJ is also focusing on his conditioning. He understands the importance of taking advice from his teammates during games.

“It’s been an interesting journey as a sophomore, especially with such a talented group of seniors,” AJ shared. “Summer practices were tough, but they pushed me to recognize where I can grow, both on and off the court.”

Last season, as a freshman, AJ played in 28 games, showing potential to become a standout player. He averaged over 10 minutes per game and shot 36% from beyond the arc. His ability to dominate on both ends of the court was evident numerous times.

One highlight came in a game against Notre Dame, where he scored nine points and contributed across the board with rebounds and assists. Another memorable performance was against Miami, when his crucial shots helped secure a victory, marking FSU’s continued success against their rivals.

“I want to be a more consistent scoring option,” AJ explained. “I had moments last season, but I’m ready to take it to another level this year.”

With the new season approaching, AJ feels he’s found his place in Coach Loucks’ system. Teams today are embracing speed, as seen with the Sacramento Kings, who ranked among the top-10 in scoring last season. Florida State’s coaching staff is focused on a similar approach, emphasizing quick pace on offense and solid defense.

“We’re working hard to grasp the new system,” said Coach Loucks. “Our players are committed, and we’re seeing progress. Everyone understands what it will take to win.”

The bond among the players is also crucial. “We communicate constantly during practices,” said AJ. “Building trust and understanding each other’s strengths is key. Off the court, we support one another and share experiences, which tightens our connection.”

AJ credits his mother, Danielle, as his biggest inspiration. “She inspires me every day to work hard and become a better person,” he said. Her support has been vital on his basketball journey.

With a focus on daily improvement, both as a player and a person, AJ Swinton is determined to make an impact on the court for Florida State this season. As the Seminoles gear up for their first game on November 4, fans are excited to see how this young talent evolves.

For more insights on college athletics and player development, check out the NCAA’s official site NCAA.org.

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