Miles Degner, a freshman at Cedar Rapids Prairie High School, earned a spot on the Student Athlete World USA roster, a program that selects only about 15 percent of applicants for its international basketball tours.
A Costa Rican Adventure
During his stay in Costa Rica, Degner competed in a series of games that contributed to the U.S. team’s perfect 4‑0 record. The experience allowed him to test his skills against foreign talent and broaden his understanding of the sport.
For Degner, basketball is more than a pastime; it serves as a constructive outlet during challenging times and fuels his ambition to play at the collegiate level.
Beyond the court, he participates in baseball and track and field, showcasing a well‑rounded athletic profile that he hopes will attract college recruiters.
Cedar Rapids Prairie’s Basketball Legacy
The Prairie Hawks finished the previous winter season with an 18‑6 record, marking one of the program’s strongest performances in recent years. Under the guidance of head coach Todd Kuntz, the team has logged at least eleven wins in four of the past five seasons.
Kuntz, who previously led Dunkerton High School to a state tournament appearance, continues to shape the Hawks’ culture of competitiveness and academic excellence.
The tour also highlighted the involvement of Chris Horton, head coach at Warren Wilson College, who coordinated the U.S. squad’s preparation and emphasized teamwork as a cornerstone of their success.