ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Nijuan Harris is only 15 years old, but he already carries himself like a pro on the court.

“He doesn’t get high, he doesn’t get low, his emotion of the game, he carries himself like a true professional basketball player,” said St. Petersburg High boys basketball coach Chris Blackwell.

The St. Petersburg High freshman is making a name for himself in high school basketball.


What You Need To Know

  • St. Petersburg High freshman, Nijuan Harris is making a name for himself in high school basketball. He’s averaging nearly 30 points per game for the Green Devils

  • Harris has been key in leading St. Petersburg High to the state-semifinals

  • The 15-year-old basketball standout is already grabbing the attention of division 1-college programs 

  • UPDATE: St. Pete saw its pursuit of a state title end Wednesday night in a 67-45 loss to Blanche Ely

He’s averaging nearly 30 points per game for the Green Devils.

And he’s already grabbing the attention of Division 1 college programs, which is a goal on his list.

“I definitely want to go to a D-1 school and move on to the NBA,” said Harris.

The 6-foot-5, 215-pound power forward has become a leader for St. Pete High, something rare for a freshman to do. Especially at an esteemed program with seven regional titles.

“This season has been great, taking a leadership role, was probably definitely my scoring ability, and trying to uplift my teammates,” Harris said.

Head coach Chris Blackwell is in his 24th season at the helm, he says Harris leads on and off the court.

“He shares his experience with all the guys, his communication with them as well and just the camaraderie that he brings along to you know, the team,” said Blackwell.

Harris wants to help his team win a state title, and they took a big step forward on Thursday night.

He was key in leading the green devils to a regional final win over countryside on Thursday, punching St. Pete’s ticket to the state semi-finals.

“I always look forward to our games, you have that adrenaline pushing you, ready for the game, makes you want to focus on what you’re doing,” said Harris.

Harris brings a strong work ethic and positive attitude to the court every day, and his coaches only see great things ahead for the freshman phenom.