Ernest Turner

by Ross A. Wilson

No matter where Ernest Turner receives the rock, he’s got decisions to make. To drive, or not to drive. To pull up for three, or not to pull up for three. To dish to a teammate, or not to dish to a teammate. To dunk, or not to dunk.

Ernest Turner will be one of the brightest stars to ever come out of the area once his senior year is completed. A three-year starter, Turner has scored 2018 career points in leading Sterling High School to playoff berths in each of his seasons. This past year, the 6-foot-2, 195-lb junior averaged 25.7 points per game. He was also the main reason the Silver Knights were able to fight their way to a 17-9 record before falling to Haddonfield in the South Jersey Group II Final.

Fundamentally sound in every aspect of the game, Turner is the real deal. His free throw percentage is nearly 85%. His deep ball and short range "J" often appear to be automatic, and his unselfish play allows teammates to stay active and involved on the court. Anyone who’s seen him play considers him a to be a solid player..... but don’t tell him that.

"There are areas I still need to improve, like my dribbling and my play-making ability. I’ll play either the point or off-guard in college, so I want to make sure that I’m there [well-rounded]", says the long-time Gym Rat Basketball Camp attendee. "Coming off screens right and being patient are also areas that I want to focus on improving. Those are some of my goals for this year."

Because Turner has the potential to become something special at the next level, he’s always working to expand his game. When he’s not looking to score, he’s effective at creating offensive opportunities for others. He’s also built himself up like a solid light-heavyweight boxer, giving him the power to post up against other players while down low in the paint.

While attending a Villanova game last year, Wildcat fans seemed to spot him. Reluctant to stick out in the crowd just yet, Turner decided to sit in secrecy rather than boast of his presence. "They were looking, smiled Turner. I heard that there were Internet rumors that I’d be at the game and that some fans knew I’d be sitting in a certain seat wearing certain clothes. People were looking at me like ‘Is it you? Are you coming’ here?’, but I just sat there and tried to enjoy the game. I didn’t want to get caught up in anything, but it was fun."

Ernie’s luster has caught the attention of some major Division I programs. Connecticut, Rutgers, USC and Villanova are all interested. Although there will be many options and choices awaiting the talented Turner, he understands that he still has a long way to go. He’ll be big time recruit for the Division I school that’s fortunate enough to secure his services....and we’re certain that he won’t be sitting in secrecy.....again. BACK