Stepping Up in the Capital City
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If a team is going to make a run in the playoffs, it will need depth and versatility. Here are some guys who are ready to step up and help down the stretch: Sincere Austin Sincere Austin 5'10" | PG…
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Continue ReadingIf a team is going to make a run in the playoffs, it will need depth and versatility. Here are some guys who are ready to step up and help down the stretch:
Sincere Austin Sincere Austin 5'10" | PG Topeka West | 2023 State KS , sophomore, Topeka West:
The amount of time Austin plays may depend some on Elijah Brooks Elijah Brooks 6'3" | CG Topeka West | 2022 State KS ’ health. But Austin has shown he’s capable at the varsity level and has been giving the Chargers some good minutes the past couple of months. He’s as smooth as glass with the ball, is quick and sees the court. He hasn’t scored a ton yet, but is always good for a couple of buckets.
Davan Brady, senior, Washburn Rural:
Brady is a real quick and tough athlete. While other guys are grabbing headlines, he can defend and bring energy off the bench. He doesn’t take many shots from the perimeter, but he can drive and score in traffic. He was ultra tough at Manhattan Friday, scoring 8 important points while others were struggling.
Mu’Khajhae Daniels, senior, Highland Park:
Daniels hasn’t gotten the publicity as some of his teammates, but he is a consistent producer and solid leader. As the season winds down, Daniels seems to be taking his game to another level. He has scored in double figures in most every game for the past month. His last three games he went for 15 against Topeka High, 15 against Manhattan, and 14 against Junction City. If Highland Park is to repeat its late season magic from last year, Daniels will be needed for maturity and leadership.
Ethan Everhart, junior, Cair Paravel:
The Lions prepare to play their first every KSHSAA playoff game. It’s a big moment for the school and will be a tall test facing Burlingame with some serious height and athleticism. The big three of Cair Paravel – Noah Hastert Noah Hastert 6'6" | C Cair Paravel | 2022 State KS , Zach Clark and Luke Fay – will be pushed. They could use some help, and Everhart has been a solid and athletic guard all season. He doesn’t score a ton, and his production may be needed. But he is also a good ball handler and defender and makes many contributions.
Micah Kobuczewski, senior, Seaman:
His role has been reduced this season, but Kobuczewski is a veteran with a lot of experience and a lot of ability. Particularly if Kaeden Bonner Kaeden Bonner 6'1" | SG Seaman | 2023 State KS is not available, Kobuczewski may have to step up as a perimeter threat. He’s certainly proven capable. He was arguably the team’s best deep shooter last season. But he’s more than a shooter. He’s a solid 6-footer who can guard multiple positions and rebound.
Vacario Triplett, senior, Hayden:
Triplett has been MIA for about six weeks. But he got back on the court against Topeka High Friday. When he’s healthy, he’s one of the best guards in the Centennial League. Hayden hasn’t won a lot of games this year, but they might just be hardened for battle in the 4A playoffs after facing much bigger schools like Topeka West and Washburn Rural all season. Triplett can give them the veteran leadership and playmaking ability they so desperately need.