Dirk, a 6' 8" 210 lb forward, comes to ISU from Pekin Illinois where he was named the PJ Star player of the year. According to coach Richardson " Dirk is a skilled big man with a feel for the game. He shoots the ball well, he handles it well and he is a good passer. In a motion offense he creates problems for the defense with his ability to shoot the ball away from the basket. He needs to add some strength, but that is true of most freshmen. We were very impressed with how many people spoke so highly of Dirk and his work ethic. He also received  high marks for his character on and off the court. He comes from a successful program and has been very well coached in the fundamentals. He's well prepared to play at the Division 1 level." Dirk says that a number of factors entered into his decision to come to ISU including the coaching staff and the direction they are taking the team and also because he has " always wanted to play in Redbird Arena". Dirk is the first Pekin Dragon since Matt Taphorn to play at ISU.

High School Highlights

Peoria Journal Star Area Player of the Year
Pekin Times Area Player of the Year
Illinois Basketball Coaches Association (IBCA)3rd Team All-State
Champaign News Gazette special mention All-State
First Team All-Mid-State 6
Will participate in the IBCA all-star game this summer
Senior season stats :
18.6 ppg
8.8 rpg
2.8 blocks/game
Team finished 20-10 his senior season
led the Mid State 6 in free throw percentage his junior (82%) and senior (83%) seasons
led the league in field goal percentage (62%) his senior season
senior season highest scoring game was 31 against Chicago Austin
season high for rebounds was 16 against Canton