Basketball: Wheeler is optimistic about fresh start at Leuzinger

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Julian Wheeler has gone through his share of trials and tribulations over the course of the last two-plus years. Untimely injuries, along with lingering misconceptions, have been troubling. Then again, we’re talking about a tough kid, one who’s ready to put the past behind him and reach his full potential following the transfer from Beverly Hills to Leuzinger over the summer.

Wheeler broke his ankle and leg before his sophomore season with the Normans, but never got discouraged. A four-game suspension created some controversy in his junior year at Beverly Hills and the situation was dealt with accordingly, though the punishment might have been a bit harsh considering he was reprimanded for missing time while dealing with a family emergency.

Somehow, some way, he’s managed to persevere.

‘I’ve had some tough times, but I’ve become a stronger person, and a stronger player, because of the tough times,’’ Wheeler said. ‘I feel like Leuzinger is the place for me. It’s a good fit. My teammates are great. I’m looking forward to having a chance to clear my name. This is a fresh start for me.’’

He has been largely overlooked by Division I scouts, and the slight is somewhat understandable, given all his ups-and-downs -- mostly downs. Another major factor is, recruiters have been paying extra close attention to senior guards from the Southland such as Santa Barbara’s Roberto Nelson, Rancho Verde’s Michael Snaer and Windward’s Darius Morris.

Things could be on the verge of changing though. The 6-foot-1 floor general recently returned from a trip to San Diego and he’s been contacted by mid-major programs Marquette and George Washington. It will be interesting to see if, and when, other schools jump on the bandwagon because Wheeler is finally healthy and seemingly ready to focus on the future.

-- Sean Ceglinsky