Kanna Suzuki is a 15 year old JHS phenom in the private school circuit in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Japan. She has raised the eyebrows of many in not only Japan, but also in the United States. After training with UPG partner Dorian Lee of Bball101 in Japan and in Atlanta for a week last summer, Kanna has demonstrated an unusually nice skill set and gotten the thumbs up from Mr. Lee as well as and overseas players who were also in attendance.
The Cross OverXperience, a UBA Reason program, gave Kanna the opportunity to tour Atlanta and train 1 on 1 as well as in small groups with Dorian Lee, head trainer. She participated in games and a variety of drills usually reserved for pros. The reviews from the sidelines all echoed astonishment and encouragement as Kanna showed off her ball handling, shooting and passing. “The thing about Kanna is that she is a quick learner, she can go both ways and she has a nice jumper and quick hands. She has a presence of calmness and vision as well. I think she just needs to adapt to the speed and physicality of American ball, “ Lee reiterated.
The Suzuki family have entrusted UPG to assist with recruiting and training services. MMG CEO Ric Mathis noted that there is a documentary in development and there is a full-fledged plan to follow Kanna closely in her American experience.
“We have a lot of ways to support Kanna through our network and relationships and I think she is just the right fit for what we do here…she is an unusual talent and she has confidence most importantly. She would be a valuable addition to any high school team in Georgia,” said UPG CEO Dodd.
Kanna with Chamique Holdsclaw | Kanna after game in Atlanta |