Big V Basketball: Whittlesea Pacers young gun Chase Page prepares for US

One of Big V Basketball’s best young players is set to take the next big step in his basketball journey as he prepares for a move into the US college system.

Chase Page can’t help but think about what’s ahead in his basketball journey.

In the midst of a Big V Youth League season with the Whittlesea Pacers, the 19-year-old is just weeks away from taking the next big step — a move to the US college system.

The shooting guard has selected Bluefield State College, a Division 2 NCAA school in West Virginia and will make the move in mid-July.

Despite not having set foot on the college grounds, Page says it already feels like he is already part of the furniture.

“The team have done a lot to make me feel welcome already — it feels like I’m moving over to part of my family,” he said.

“I found the school on social media and they reached out to me after my highlights sparked some interest. They were keen to get on FaceTime with me as soon as possible.

“That made my decision a lot easier because it felt like they wanted me there. I’ve already met my roommate, who is from Detroit, over the phone and we’ve got a great relationship.

“I’m nervous and excited to get over there but my family is fully supportive of what I’m doing.

“Our season will start in November so it will be classes for the first couple of months.”

Chase Page will soon be off to America. Photo: Kevin Phelan.

In his first season with the Pacers, Page has made a strong impression averaging a league high 22.2 points per game, 8.22 rebounds and 2.11 assists per game in nine appearances.

At 6’5” Page is also able to play as a small forward, the young gun says adapting to a different style of play in the States will be one of his biggest challenges.

“I’m looking forward to living and seeing the culture,” he said.

“I know a few people in the system, who are playing different sports, and they’ve given me a few tips and tricks which will be helpful especially when it comes to dealing with homesickness.”

Page’s young career has seen him spend time in the Coburg and Keilor basketball programs.

But it’s self drive which is seeing him aim to be the best player he can be.

A typical week usually involves several on court training sessions, a weight programs and opposition scouting.

Then it comes to game time on weekends.

“If we’re playing on a Saturday, I’ll usually head down and put up a few shots in the morning,” Page said.

“Sunday is usually my only rest day but that can depend on whether we have a double header weekend.”

NBA stars Devin Booker and Jayson Tatum are just two players Page looks up as he aims to replicate their “elite footwork”.

But it’s his dad Jason who has had one of the biggest impacts on his career.

“He knows all my flaws and he makes a conscious effort to prove beneficial feedback,” he said.

“He’s at all my games and training sessions. He does everything he can to make sure I’m right to play every week as well.”

Page and Whittlesea will host Mornington at Mill Park Basketball Stadium on Sunday at 1pm.