North Springs Coach Plans to Praise His Hoopster During Final Four Weekend

Although basketball season ended weeks ago, the accolades continue to pour in for star player John Burke.

Recently, the senior guard was named First Team All-State by the Georgia Area Coaches Association for Class AAA. That followed several other honors including his selection to the Second Team All North Fulton County.

It all comes as a result of consistent and impressive performance on the basketball court during Burke’s three years at North Springs. He moved to Sandy Springs from Boston after his freshman year and led the Spartans in scoring 26.9 points per game. He finished his career with over 1,500 points and scored a career-high 56 points on Nov. 18 in a 112-95 over North Paulding.

“The amazing thing about that game is that he had 40 points at half time,” said head coach Ryan Koudele. “Even more impressive, he didn’t miss a shot in the first half. He was almost perfect from the floor, including 5-for-5 from three-point range, and the line as well.”

During the season, Burke explained how he thrives under pressure. “I like seeing what I can do, how I can improve," he said. "...I like seeing reactions from people when you do certain things."

Burke's honors include being named most valuable player at a North Springs basketball banquet, and receiving the Charity Stripe Award, which is given to the person with the highest free-throw percentage.

Off the court he has a 3.5 grade point average and has volunteered at the Community Action Center since 2008.

“John is a hard worker and we really appreciate his commitment to CAC. I wish there were more kids his age that were this dedicated to community service,” said Liza Ulrich, volunteer coordinator.

Surprisingly, Burke has yet to sign with a college. Among the schools that have contacted him are big-name programs such as Boston College, Memphis and Brigham Young University. He’s also been in touch with several mid-major schools.

“Biggest is not always best. I’m looking for the best fit for me, but I may also decide to stay close to home,” said Burke.

Koudele believes the senior has flown under the radar of scouts and coaches. He hopes to sell his college colleagues on Burke’s talents this weekend during the annual coaches convention at the Final Four in Houston.

“I’ll be talking to as many college coaches as I can,” said Koudele. “John is an excellent player. He works hard. He has improved more than anyone else on our team over the past three years, and I expect him to continue to improve in college.”

The North Springs basketball team will lose eight seniors, including Burke, from a squad that finished the season at 11-15 and ended the year on a seven-game losing streak.

Although Burke’s future is also uncertain, Koudele is confident that he’ll be successful at the next level. 

“So far, the major conference programs have not been calling. But I wouldn’t be surprised if John’s the sort of player who hits a game-winning shot in the next few years to lead one of the smaller schools to an upset victory in the NCAA Tournament,” Koudele said.