John Bol’s Unconventional Path to UCF Is Starting to Pay Off
John Bol didn’t grow up dreaming of basketball stardom. In fact, just five years ago, he was more into video games than verticality. But now, the 7-footer is making his presence felt in the paint for a UCF team that’s off to a strong start-and he’s only scratching the surface.
If the name sounds familiar, there’s a reason. Bol comes from basketball royalty.
His father, Manute, was one of the NBA’s most iconic shot-blockers, and his brother, Bol Bol, has carved out his own path in the league. But John’s journey has been anything but traditional.
“I started playing basketball five years ago,” Bol said this week. “I was just in the house playing video games-not really into sports much, but I did play a little soccer.
That’s basically why I’m able to move my feet the way I do. My mom got on me for playing video games-she said go outside and do something.
There was a basketball court next to our house, and boom, I’m right here now.”
That “boom” moment has led Bol from a late start in hoops to a spot in the McDonald’s All-American Game, to a four-star ranking in high school, and now to his first season with the UCF Knights. It hasn’t been a straight line.
He began his college career at Ole Miss, where playing time was scarce and confidence waned. But a change of scenery seems to be exactly what he needed.
Now at UCF, Bol has played in all nine games so far this season, averaging seven points and 3.2 rebounds per game. Those numbers might not leap off the stat sheet, but they don’t tell the full story. Bol’s impact goes beyond the box score-his length, mobility, and defensive instincts give the Knights a dynamic presence in the paint.
“So far it’s been good,” Bol said. “As a team we’re winning-that’s what you want.
Individually, my confidence is coming back. Getting on the court, having that experience-with time I know I’m going to get there.”
That confidence is starting to show. UCF is 8-1 heading into this week’s matchup with Mercer, and Bol has been a steady contributor during their strong non-conference run. The Knights will face in-state foes Florida Gulf Coast and Florida Atlantic before diving into Big 12 play, where things will ramp up quickly.
Their conference opener? A January 3 showdown with perennial powerhouse Kansas, led by freshman phenom Darryn Peterson-already drawing No. 1 overall pick buzz for next year’s NBA Draft.
While Peterson is making headlines, Bol is focused on steady growth. He’s not chasing the spotlight-he’s earning his role, one possession at a time. And head coach Johnny Dawkins has taken notice.
“That's always been my energy,” Bol said. “I bring a lot of energy in practice and games.
I impact the game in so many different ways-defensively my length, just being there in the paint is a presence itself. It just helps me in general.”
For a player who didn’t pick up a basketball until his teenage years, Bol’s progress is impressive. He’s still raw, still learning, but you can see the flashes-quick feet from his soccer days, a natural shot-blocking instinct, and a motor that doesn’t quit.
He may not be the headline act just yet, but keep an eye on John Bol. His story is still being written-and if his trajectory continues, the next chapter could be something special.