While Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback Riley Leonard has captured national attention, his on-court skills were equally mesmerizing. A viral video recently resurfaced showcasing Leonard’s prowess as a standout high school basketball player in Fairhope, Alabama.
Riley Leonard Went From Basketball Star to Notre Dame’s Quarterback Sensation
The clip highlights Leonard’s incredible abilities, including a 360-degree dunk that left audiences stunned. The Notre Dame QB played as a high-flying 6’4” guard in Alabama.
Hoop Herald’s X page highlights Leonard’s athletic prowess, showcasing his fearless approach to the game in the video. The caption reads:
“Notre Dame QB Riley Leonard was an absolute DEMON on the basketball court. Athlete.”
Leonard’s highlights include driving to the basket and executing a spectacular 360-degree dunk midgame. He frequently delivered jaw-dropping moments, such as posterizing defenders and performing dunk contest-level moves.
By the end of his basketball career, Leonard had scored over 2,000 points. His remarkable performances earned him scholarship offers from notable programs, including UAB and Missouri State.
His scholarship offers validated his basketball potential, but Leonard, obviously, chose a different path to the gridiron. Nevertheless, his love for basketball remained.
Speaking with former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III, Leonard reflected:
“We used to go to Cameron late at night and hoop, which is dope. I was always trying to sneak in there and play with them boys and see if I could really prove myself.”
Though his basketball career ended after high school, Leonard’s decision to focus on football proved fruitful. This season, he was instrumental in Notre Dame’s run to the College Football Playoff National Championship. His dual-threat ability as a quarterback, combining precision passing with exceptional mobility, made him a key player for the Fighting Irish.
Leonard Built a Brand Through NIL Deals
Despite his impressive performances, Leonard’s NFL Draft stock remains a topic of debate. Currently, he is not considered a top-tier prospect for the 2025 cycle. Instead, Leonard is viewed as a developmental prospect, with most projections placing him in the sixth round.
MORE: Riley Leonard Gets Candid on His Basketball Skills Before CFP Championship Game
Off the field, Leonard has made waves with his lucrative NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, which are valued at $1.6 million, according to On3. He has partnered with brands like Rhoback (including a $100,000 deal), EA Sports, and Gillette.
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