Recruit Highlight: St. James’ Shazz Preston

by Hunter Bower // GeauxPreps.com Owner

Our next recruiting highlight is junior wide receiver Shazz Preston from St. James, La. Preston is 6’1, weighs 189 pounds and runs a 4.5 40-yard dash

The Class of 2022 prospect attends St. James High School where he plays for head coach Robert Valdez. Preston played a major role as a sophomore helping lead the Wildcats to a 15-0 record and the Class 3A State Championship, the school’s first state title in 40 years. He finished the year with 63 receptions for 1,018 yards and nine touchdowns, all team-highs.

Preston has received offers from 14 FBS programs including LSU, Texas A&M, Florida State and Arkansas.

GeauxPreps caught up with Shazz for a Q&A session asking about the recruiting process, his goals for 2020, biggest influences and more!

How has the recruitment process been during the COVID-19 pandemic?

It’s been steady. Most coaches are watching my film and reaching out to our coaching staff about offers.

You have received several impressive offers from various FBS programs across the country. Which programs have impressed you the most?

I have been blessed with numerous of offers from high-profile programs. Because I camped a lot in the past, I have at least visited most of the programs but not been able to get on campus visits during the COVID-19 pandemic to make a real judgement.

Are you leaning towards any particular school at this point?

No, I am just enjoying the process and trying to learn as much about programs as possible.

Talk about your experience winning a State Championship last season.

That was my best football experience ever. Getting a chance to accomplish that with my teammates is unexplainable. The entire season was like a movie and it brought great joy to our community.

What are your personal goals for the 2020 football season? How will accomplishing those goals help the overall team goals?

To get another 1,000 yards receiving and to break my reception record from last year. Winning back-to-back titles is more important than any of my personal goals.

Who are some of your biggest influences both on the field and in everyday life?

My brother and my dad. I look up to both of them. Football greatness is just a part of what we strive for in our family. My mom also fits right in with us because she is tough and is a go-getter.

How would you describe your game and also how would you describe your mentality on and off the field?

I’m a bit laid back off the field but on the field I am different. I like to have fun while playing but I hate to lose. My game is to do anything to help my team win whether it be a big catch, big block or a big run. Everytime I touch the ball, I’m trying to score.

What is one thing that most people don’t know about you?

That’s a tough one… I guess that I’m interested in a career in sports broadcasting, lol.