Personal Statement

You can also visit: www.oltanriordan.com

[Edit: This year, I received the Most Improved Player award at IMG Academy]

Yet again, shirt drenched in sweat, legs burning, lungs on fire, I keep going. This isn’t just practice. It’s a lifestyle. A commitment. A mindset. Every rep, every drill, every sacrifice fuels my drive to one day wear a college jersey. Passion and talent are a given at this level. What sets me apart is relentless work ethic, discipline, and a hunger to improve every single day.

Hi, I’m Oltan Riordan. I’m a 17-year-old, 6’2” student-athlete currently attending IMG Academy and playing on the Varsity basketball team. Before this, I played in Puerto Rico for my school and the Humacao Basket club team. I’ve also spent summers training and playing in Texas, and regularly attended elite-level basketball camps in the U.S., including PGC and others. Last year, in addition to playing, I assisted as a coach for the girls’ basketball team at my school.

On the Court:

Skills & Strengths: I currently play point guard and shooting guard, and I’m the kind of player who brings energy to the team—on the court and from the sidelines. I’m vocal, team-oriented, and thrive on doing whatever the team needs—whether that’s locking down on defense, creating plays, or making smart passes. I take pride in my defense and adaptability, and I’m steadily improving my ability to perform under pressure. I can knock down shots, move well off the ball, and I’m always looking for opportunities to assist and get my teammates involved.

Playing Style: I enjoy fast-paced games, but I thrive in smart, strategic systems. Whether it’s making the right cut, setting a screen, or finding the open man, I value efficient, team-first basketball.

Work Ethic: I train 6 hours a day or more —rain or shine, game day or rest day. From on-court drills and shooting reps to strength training, conditioning, recovery, and nutrition, I approach the game with a full-time mindset. I push myself even when no one’s watching, and I’ve never hesitated to skip a party or weekend hangout if it means getting better. This is more than a sport to me—it’s a daily commitment to growth. 

Beyond the Court:

Academic Performance: I got a 3.95 GPA last semester (3.6 cumulative). I was an active member of our school’s Chess Club - we won the PR Championship. I am one of the top students in my classes, especially in Math and Science. 

Teamwork & Leadership: At the PGC camp, my coach told my mom "He’s such a natural, kind leader that every team needs an Oltan”. I really enjoy the camaraderie of basketball. I share everything I learn at the camps with my teammates, and I learn whatever I can from them. Besides basketball, I founded the Entrepreneur Mastermind Club at my high school. I volunteer at the local animal shelter and the local nursing home for the underprivileged elderly.

Character: I always treat everyone with kindness and respect. I always welcome feedback, even when it’s not easy to hear. I am competitive, but I’m easy going as well, so I don’t let opposition (or bad ref calls) get to me. I strive to embody the qualities of a professional basketball player/athlete. I am well liked by my peers as well as my coaches and teachers. I’ve been complimented not just for my skills but also for my work ethic, sportsmanship and leadership qualities.

I’ve heard it from coaches, refs, and teammates… I’m a different player every six months. I know talent and hustle are just part of the equation. IMG has given me elite coaching, top-tier facilities, and a professional training environment, and I want to carry that same level of focus and discipline into my college career. I’m ready for the next step! Greater competition, higher pressure, and the chance to grow even more. I believe I can bring impact, intelligence, and integrity (both on the court and in the classroom) to a program that challenges its athletes to reach their full potential in every aspect of the game and life.

Thank you for your time.