Standouts: Kimberly Outlasts Neenah, 68-66
This thrilling conference rivalry didn’t disappoint, as Kimberly edged out Neenah after a final second tip-in by Grant Asman. So, in the first meeting between these teams, what players performed best, specifically from the Kimberly side? Jake Buchanan – Kimberly…
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Continue ReadingThis thrilling conference rivalry didn’t disappoint, as Kimberly edged out Neenah after a final second tip-in by Grant Asman. So, in the first meeting between these teams, what players performed best, specifically from the Kimberly side?
Jake Buchanan – Kimberly – 2020: Buchanan was the motor behind Kimberly’s well-rounded night. His role as their clear playmaker — which was evident in his isolation at the end of the first and second half — provided an already solid roster with the legs to push past Neenah.
He tallied 17 points last night and likely a few assists.
Logan Pearson – Kimberly – 2020: Pearson continues to build on his niche: a slightly undersized yet versatile scorer. His college-caliber skillset paved the way for a 14 point game in which the guard showed a smooth outside jumper and a sneaky effective off-the-dribble game.
Conner Wnek – Kimberly – 2020: To no one’s surprise, the division one wide receiver displayed game altering-athleticism and a high-motor on offense. He crashed the glass hard, leaping over and around defenders for rebounds and finding the stripe multiple times down the stretch.
He’s committed collegiately for football, but there’s no reason we shouldn’t be keeping an eye on the forward, as he could be the X-factor that makes Kimberly a State team this season.
Jackson Paveletzke – Kimberly – 2022: The sophomore drips with offensive talent and craftiness, as he dug into his bag of tricks multiple times tonight. While the length of Neenah’s defense gave him some problems late, his pull-up jumper, quick jolts, and stop-and-go drives still proved valuable at times in the matchup.
He’s had a breakout year this season, and tonight he continued that against a tough Neenah team.
Max Klesmit – Neenah – 2020: Counting on Klesmit for 25-30 points a night is routine at this point in his career. He’s capable of almost anything on offense, so we again turn to his dominant scoring to justify his standout-worthy performance.
Chevalier Emery – Neenah – 2022: After struggling against Kaukauna last weekend, Emery showed improvements everywhere tonight. He hit two threes (one through contact), drove to the hoop with grace, and played more under control as a whole.
He finished with 10 points and was a valuable piece for Neenah.
Jake Dietz – Neenah – 2021: Dietz continues to make a strong case for the 2021 rankings. With a smooth jumper and knack for high-volume offense, his spotlight will only shine brighter moving forward.
Tonight, specifically, his spot-up shooting was the most apparent standout trait. He was always ready for a swing pass from a teammate and shot with a quick enough release to be effective against a stellar team like Kimberly.