Centennial League Roundup Jan 12
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A few teams are still trying to get back on the court following the break. But the games that have been played have been dominated by the usual suspects. The highlight reel for Tuesday night reads a little bit like…
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Continue ReadingA few teams are still trying to get back on the court following the break. But the games that have been played have been dominated by the usual suspects. The highlight reel for Tuesday night reads a little bit like an all-conference team (in alphabetical order):
Elijah Brooks Elijah Brooks 6'3" | CG Topeka West | 2022 State KS , junior, Topeka West:
Last semester belonged to teammate Tre Alexander Tre Alexander 6'3" | CG Topeka West | 2021 State KS . But thus far this semester, Brooks has stepped into the spotlight, demonstrating the skill that made him one of the top players in the league as a freshman and sophomore. He rebounded from an injury in December to score 28 against Hayden last Friday, and 29 in the win over Emporia on Tuesday.
Howard Johnson Howard Johnson 6'0" | SG Junction City | 2022 State KS , junior, Junction City (pictured):
Tuesday night belonged to Johnson. The 6-foot junior bounced back from being held scoreless against Emporia last week to light up Highland Park for 25. The five most important points of the game came in the final 1:22. Johnson showed his high IQ and ability to anticipate by stealing an inbounds pass and converting to tie the game on an and-one. Then he hit the game winner at the buzzer, finishing with 25.
Corey Powell Corey Powell 6'4" | PF Highland Park | 2021 State KS , senior, Highland Park:
Highland Park fell in heartbreaking fashion to Junction City, but a positive sign in the emergence of Powell in the last couple of games. The 6-foot-7 senior started slowly, but scored 14 in each of the last two outings. Tuesday he was a dominating presence in the lane, challenging shots, crashing the boards, and battling aggressively for position in the post.
Juan’Tario Roberts Juan’Tario Roberts 5'10" | CG Highland Park | 2022 State KS , junior, Highland Park:
An amazing effort by Roberts was sort of wasted in the 52-50 loss to Junction City. Roberts demonstrated amazing ability to penetrate and get to the bucket. He hit 10-15 shots to lead the Scots with 23. Roberts has been off to a bit of a slow start in his junior campaign, but there is no questioning his quickness, handle and ability to create shots.
Jalen Smith Jalen Smith 6'2" | SG Topeka High | 2021 State KS , senior, Topeka High:
The Trojans picked up their first win of the season, due in large part to the leadership from senior guard Smith. He posted his season-high 18 points in the defeat of Hayden. The 6-foot-2 combo guard can handle the ball and run the show, but he’s also adept at getting out on the break to receive a pass on the run, and to get to the hoop in the set offense.
Charles Snyder Charles Snyder 6'5" | PF Emporia | 2021 State KS , senior, Emporia:
Snyder is starting to assert a claim for player of the year in the Centennial League. He does everything, and the Spartans rely heavily upon him. The 6-foot-5 post/wing can battle inside, put the ball on the floor to drive, score from the perimeter, and he works relentlessly to collect opportunities off the glass and in transition. His combination of height, strength and skill make him tough, but his effort makes him elite. His last four games, he’s scored 23, 27, 30, and 23 Tuesday against Topeka West.
Geivonnii Williams, senior Hayden:
Hayden is struggling, having lost four in a row. But the senior Williams continues to battle and provide leadership to the young Wildcats. He had 14 in a loss to Topeka High Tuesday. Williams has been held to under 14 just once this season.