Beckman’s all-time leading scorer Dylan Thoerner looks to lead Patriots to successful CIF playoff run

Beckman star Dylan Thoerner with head coach John Goins (left) and assistant coaches Al Galloway and Earl Wright on senior night.

Beckman High senior Dylan Thoerner has had quite a senior season, leading the Patriots to their first Pacific Coast League title, which was his number one goal, and into the CIF 3AA playoffs.

In the process, he also became the school’s all-time leading scorer. Thoerner has 1,618 career points and he’s averaged 19.5 points and 4.9 rebounds. This year, he’s averaging 20.2 points and 5.7 rebounds.

Thoerner and his teammates host Twentynine Palms Friday night in the opening round.

A couple weeks ago Thoerner talked about different subjects, including his decision to commit to play basketball for Tufts University in Boston.

Talk about your decision to commit with Tufts:

Thoerner: Recruiting picked up a lot over this summer and then ended this first semester. I had to visit a lot of schools.  It really came down to East Coast vs. West Coast. I just decided to try something new, something different. It’s four years in my life. So I decided to try and take a risk and see something new in a good city.

What role do you expect to play next season at Tufts?

Thoerner: They have all of their guys returning so it will be tough to figure out where I stand but if I work hard this summer (he will do OK). I have a good connection with the coaches, so I feel confident I’ll play a significant role next year. I think it’s the best of both because I get basketball and academics.

What is your GPA and how are you able to keep up your grades?

Thoerner: Right now, it’s like 4.5. I prioritize and (use) time management, those are really the two biggest things. I try to find time and capitalize on what time I have and make the most of it. I like math and English, and economics (are his top classes). I’ve always stayed on top of my grades and kept up with my work.

When did you start playing basketball?

Thoerner: When I was five, my dad signed me up for a league and I’ve been playing ever since. I just fell in love it with since I first played and the thrill of being able to go out and run and now it’s about competing and trying to win and strategy.

Talk about your experience with the Cali Rebels?

Thoerner: They are a great organization. That helped me a lot. They put me in the right position and let my work show for itself. It’s an AAU team, especially at the higher level, they are in college showcase tournaments and there are viewing seasons.

What about certain games that stand out in your Beckman career?

Thoerner: I would probably say my very first game when I was a freshman. I was able to play at the very last second (end of the game). I hit two three’s. That was the start of it and when I had my career high of 38 points against Woodbridge (in his junior year) That was a good game to look back on.

Anything else you would like to add?

Thoerner: I would like to thank the coaches for always putting me in the right position and giving me the guidance and I’ve been fortunate to try and  take advantage and work hard and good things happen.

-Tim Burt, OC Sports Zone; timburt@ocsportszone.com