Heritage Hall’s Secret Weapon: Kyle McLaughlin

A couple of games into his senior season, Heritage Hall and Auburn commit Trey AlexanderTreyAlexander6'4" | SGOklahoma City Heritage | 2021State#55NationOK did what he’s been doing for the Chargers for three seasons. Against 5A’s second-ranked Carl Alberto Titans, Alexander controlled the game on the offensive end of the floor with 31 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 assists. Everything Alexander did wasn’t surprising, but the player that stepped up and hit big shots when Heritage Hall’s offense plateaued, was Kyle McLaughlin. As you would expect, Carl Albert’s defense started doubling and often tripling Alexander as soon as he crossed half court. On the occasion that he didn’t still get past those defenders, he’d find the open man, which was McLaughlin most of the time, and he knocked down 5-of-6. While he’s a knockdown shooter, McLaughlin’s defensive awareness can’t be slept on. Considering it was just the beginning of his sophomore season, playing one of the best teams in the state regardless of class, McLaughlin didn’t shy away from any matchup. After losing some key leaders from last season, this season provides younger players like McLaughlin, Sebastian PerrySebastianPerry6'1" | PGHeritage Hall | 2023StateOK, CJ SmithCJSmith6'2" | SGHeritage Hall | 2023StateOK, and Ethan Franks an opportunity to be seen on a high level. Heritage Hall’s supporting cast will have to define themselves this season if they want a chance for a State Championship rematch against Kingfisher.