Mr. Basketball Contenders: Robert Phinisee
The high school season got underway this week and we are excited about the games but just as excited about the players. One of the biggest things to watch every season is the Mr. Basketball award. Today, we wanted to start our preview series for the contenders for that award. We begin with a look at McCutcheon’s Robert Phinisee.
Bio: Robert Phinisee
Height: 6’2
Position: PG
High School: McCutcheon
AAU: Indiana Elite 2018
College: Indiana University
Phinisee has been a guy over the last few years that has played at such a high level. He’s been a tremendous player and pushed McCutcheon to the State Finals two years ago. He’s what you want in a point guard with his decision making and scoring ability. He’s a willing passer that can really set-up his teammates for easy buckets. While at the same time, he’s really solid with his ability to shoot and drive.
This season will be a little more of a test for him as he doesn’t have as much talent around him as he usually does. However, that goes back to how good he has been his whole career, where he was always the youngest player on his high school team but maybe the most important and he’s always come through. Now, though, he will be asked to be much more of an offensive player. The numbers should put him in the conversation as a potential Mr. Basketball winner but at the same time, his team’s success might not be what it has been the last few years.
Phinisee is one that will play a good schedule that will get him in front of a lot of different areas of the state against good teams. A run back to Regionals would go a long way in helping put him in front of voters when the time is close and that is a very good possibility. His offensive numbers should make a jump and be really solid and that balance of playing well and long into the season is a legit possibility making his case one to pay attention to as we move forward into the season.