Paolo Banchero’s path to becoming an NBA star involved a decisive moment in high school when he chose basketball over football. During his freshman year at O’Dea High School in Seattle, Banchero, already standing 6-foot-7, played as the backup quarterback for the Fighting Irish football team, accumulating 191 passing yards and three touchdowns. Despite showing promise on the gridiron for one of Washington’s top-ranked high school teams, Banchero decided to leave football behind and dedicate himself fully to basketball.
The Shift from Football to Basketball in High School
Banchero’s choice to quit football after his freshman season came from a growing realization that his future was brighter on the basketball court. While quarterbacks are often among the tallest players on the field, Banchero felt out of place playing football at such a high level. He recognized that basketball better suited his size, skill set, and potential, especially as college scouts began to take notice. This gave him the confidence to pursue basketball as more than just a passion but a professional career goal.
On The Pivot Podcast, Banchero reflected on his decision:
“I played football my whole life, and I loved football, but I just felt so out of place,”
he said.
“That was the first time I think when it kinda felt unnatural … And so that’s when I was like, you know what, I think I’m gonna have to just go full-time basketball.”
—Paolo Banchero, Forward
Physical Attributes and Career Potential Influencing the Choice
Standing at an imposing height with a versatile athletic frame, Banchero was naturally inclined toward basketball. The Orlando Magic star, who was the top pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, has proven that his decision was the right one, already making an early impact comparable only to standout Oklahoma City Thunder rookie Jalen Williams. Despite his basketball success, Banchero maintains a fondness for football and respects the growing presence of taller players in that sport.
He shared his thoughts on this trend:
“I think it’s good, though … If you could see taller guys starting to play football, you know, maybe they can make it work,”
Banchero said.
“I think at the quarterback position, you could. But I think for me, I just was good enough in basketball to where I knew I could stay on that path.”
—Paolo Banchero, Forward
The Risks of Football and the Importance of Focus
Football is widely regarded as one of the roughest sports in the United States, with injuries posing a serious threat to athletes’ careers. For Banchero, the risk of sustaining a serious injury on the football field could have ended his aspirations in basketball before they truly began. For many athletes balancing multiple sports through youth and high school, focusing on just one sport is often necessary to reduce risk and reach a professional level in their chosen game.
While NFL hopefuls might continue basketball with less risk to their primary career, the reverse is more dangerous for those focused on basketball. Banchero’s decision to fully commit to basketball was, therefore, a strategic move to maximize his potential while protecting his health.
The Lasting Impact of Paolo Banchero’s Choice
Choosing basketball over football in high school was a defining moment for Paolo Banchero, positioning him to become a leading figure in the NBA. This choice highlights the pressures and decisions young multi-sport athletes face as they navigate their futures. For Banchero, this clear focus has already yielded rewards on the court, and his experience serves as an example for others weighing their own sporting paths.
As his career continues to unfold, Banchero’s journey underscores the importance of recognizing where one’s talents and passion align, and making the necessary sacrifices to follow that path. His story remains a compelling case of prioritizing long-term goals over temporary versatility.