In one of the most memorable games from the 2017-18 season, Robert Soto shined at the most essential time.
The 2019 guard recorded 17 points in an upset win at Oak Ridge, 78-76 on Feb. 7. That included the game-winning basket with under 10 seconds left.
At the time, Oak Ridge was 22-3 with its three losses coming to national powerhouses DeMatha, Memphis East and Paul VI.
Soto’s Boone team were, in fact, the only Florida team to beat Oak Ridge this past season as the Pioneers rattled off eight straight wins after losing to the Braves on the way to a Class 9A state title.
Boone finished 17-12, losing in the region semifinal to state semifinalist West Orange.
For the 5’9″, 158-pound Soto, January marked the first month of basketball for him as he sat out prior to that. He says he strengthed his handles and jump shot as a junior.
“I’m really excited me about this upcoming season,” Soto told Prep Hoops. “I think we got a pretty good chance to go to states.”
This summer, he played for Captains Elite on the AAU circuit.
Soto pointed to his ability to get teammates involved and his dribbling as his biggest strengths. He’s aiming to improve his all-around leadership on the court.
Look for Soto to take over the backcourt with Sean Halloran off to college. Boone should be a competitive squad once again and one that is well organized and smart.
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