Canada’s Top Point Guard Olivier Hanlan is Off the Board, Boston College Bound

GATINEAU, QC–The #1 point guard in Canada, Olivier Hanlan (#5 overall) has committed to Boston College, after being recruited by schools such as Virginia Tech, Tennesse, TCU, and Notre Dame.

The primary factor for Hanlan’s decision to BC was the commitment that the coaching staff showed in pursuing the Canadian junior national team member.

“They’ve been recruiting me since last winter and will show me how to be an impact player as a freshman,” Hanlan told NPH.

He will become the third Canadian player (not counting Brady Heslip who transferred) to join the Eagles.

Nate Doornekamp of Odessa, Ontario was another Canuck who played at Boston College and Mike Piwerka of Whitby, Ontario suited up for the Eagles in the mid-90’s. (Thanks to @Daveleeder for info on Piwerka)

Olivier Hanlan will be coming in next season to replace the void that Reggie Jackson (Oklahoma City Thunder) left at the lead guard position.

“They are looking for me to fill his shoes,” explained Hanlan.

The Gatineau, Quebec product is coming off a very successful summer where he opened many eyes playing in the EYBL circuit for Albany City Rock.

“Playing in the EYBL was a great experience because it prepared me for the next level, by playing against great, top players in the nation.”

He admit that when he was younger, he was a tad timid, however explained that his confidence has rapidly increased over the past few years.

Hanlan also played with the Ottawa Guardsmen club team in Canada, and mentioned Coach Dave Smart (Head Coach, CIS Carleton Ravens) as someone who has certainly influenced his development.

With his senior season left to complete at New Hampton (prep), Hanlan is scheduled for a big year, where he will continue to prepare for his freshman campaign in the NCAA.

“I would like to be a more of a leader, run the offense and score when I can.”

NPH Summer Evaluation

The most striking area of Hanlan’s development lies within his physique. Hanlan has added around 20 pounds of lean muscle mass, enabling him to invite contact as opposed to shying away on drives to the cup. He can now penetrate with force while absorbing contact to finish. This Quebec native is actually quite similar in structure to Naz Long, with the same height and weight. Hanlan has great vision complimented with the ability to laser passes through tight space. He has a good understanding of the offense, aware of when to make the extra pass and when to take the shot. Hanlan was extremely efficient throughout this tournament rarely turning over the ball, while sustaining cohesion among teammates. On this particular team, he plays both guard positions due to the lack of overall size on Albany City. However, he is a full time lead guard at New Hampton and will ultimately play the point at the next level.-April/May 2011, NIKE EYBL DALLAS