Johnny McKew Selected for Wales 3x3 Qualifiers After Standout Season

An Essex Strength and Conditioning postgraduate and Performance Basketball athlete has been selected to represent Wales in the upcoming 3x3 Commonwealth Games qualifiers. After a strong run of preparation camps and a determined comeback from injury, Johnny steps onto the international stage.

Introducing ... Johnny McKew

Image credit: sanne.hoffman.photography

Preparing for the 3x3 stage

Reflecting on the build‑up to selection, Johnny says he felt confident heading into the qualifiers. Playing and taking the win at Rise 3x3 City League has been a highlight of his journey so far.

“I felt great - had a good couple of camps to prepare and now excited for the opportunity to compete against some great competition.”

The moment the call came

Johnny found out about his selection the day after the final camp.

“It came through over email and I had to leave a couple of days after, so it hasn’t properly hit yet, but I’m just grateful for the opportunity to represent Wales on a stage like this.”

Game‑day routine and mindset

While he doesn’t rely on rituals or superstitions, Johnny keeps a consistent routine to feel prepared heading into competition. And when it comes to getting locked in, he'll be listening to Digits by Young Thug.

Team chemistry built over years

The Welsh squad are no strangers, and that familiarity has been a major strength.

“We’ve all been playing for Wales in various games and competitions over the past few years, so the chemistry has come quickly.”

This season's gamechanger

Earlier this season, Johnny suffered a broken ankle, forcing him into a long rehab process. That setback became a turning point.

“Rehabbing and returning from that was a huge part of my training this season. The experience has helped my overall recovery processes and training now that I’m healthy again.”

Applying Strength & Conditioning to performance

As an MSc Strength & Conditioning student, Johnny has been able to apply his academic learning directly to his development as an athlete.

“Studying S&C has helped my understanding of the underlying mechanics and processes of performance, as well as ways to develop them which I’m able to apply to my own training.”

We're wishing Johnny the best of luck from all at Essex in this weekend's comp, which can be watched live on Basketball England's YouTube channel. 

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