The prestigious Pangos All-American Camp, an invite-only event featuring the top high school prospects in the nation, returned this summer after it was cancelled due to the pandemic last year. Pro Insight was on hand to evaluate the event and caught up with Yohan Traore of Prolific Prep (CA) and Dream Vision (CA). Traore was selected to the Top-30 Cream of the Crop Game and averaged 15.3 points in four games. A strong inside presence and energetic rim runner, he also had 14 points (7/10 FG) and nine rebounds in the Top-30 showcase.
As part of the Pro Insight Q&A series, Traore discussed his strengths and playstyle, playing with Keyonte George, factors in his college choice, and more.
For the next installment of the Pro Insight Q&A series, we present 2022 prospect Yohan Traore, from Tours, France:
Pro Insight: What has been your impression of the Pangos All-American Camp overall?
Yohan Traore: I got a good impression of the camp. There’s really a lot of good players so there’s a lot of competition. Everybody is showing what they can do and everything so it’s been a really good camp.
PI: Is there anyone in particular that you’ve enjoyed playing with or against so far?
YT: Everybody. Everyone has been great people so I have enjoyed playing with and against everyone.
PI: You recently moved over from France — can you talk a bit about your background?
YT: I came here like I think one year ago. Before, I was playing at INSEP — it’s an institute in France. I was playing with the best players in France. This past season, I was at Prolific Prep (CA).
PI: How was the transition to living in the United States?
YT: I mean because there was COVID-19, everything was closed. So I didn’t really get the experience of living in the USA. It’s been pretty good for now, though. I've been traveling a lot with Prolific Prep. We got to see places like Phoenix, Kentucky, and everything.
PI: For those who aren’t familiar, how would you describe your game?
YT: I play very aggressively. I like playing defense. I like running the floor and finishing in transition. And yeah, I can dribble the ball. I can shoot.
PI: Who do you model your game after or try to study on film?
YT: I like watching Kevin Durant. I like watching Tracy McGrady, Brandon Ingram, and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
PI: What are you working on improving in your game?
YT: I’m working on everything to be honest whether it's shooting or dribbling.
PI: You were with Southern Assault (TX) for AAU before joining Dream Vision (CA), how did you like playing with Keyonte George?
YT: I liked playing with Keyonte George. He’s a really good player. He passed me the ball and created some actions so I really enjoyed playing with him.
PI: What are your biggest interests outside of basketball?
YT: I really like to spend time with my family.
PI: What is your recruitment update?
YT: I got Tennessee, Texas, USC, Rutgers, and Ohio State among many others. (note: has since picked up Oregon, ASU, Louisville, UCLA, Arkansas, Cal, Houston, LSU, and Texas Tech)
PI: What are you ultimately looking for in a school of your choice?
YT: I am looking for a place where I can play my game, where I can play some stretch four/five and play freely. I got to have a good relationship with the coach, too.
PI: At the end of the day, what do you hope to be remembered for?
YT: Somebody who always played hard. Someone that gave it everything and they gave it their best every time.