Player Capsule: Max Nielson
Season Summary
Max Nielson is only a sophomore but his game-winning scoop shot against Flandreau in the regional final proved he is way beyond his years.
Nielson has been a part of some great Sioux Valley teams in the past and looks to continue that streak in his final two years.
He was one of two sophomores in the starting lineup, but neither one played like they were sophomores. His ability to drive and finish at the rim made him a deadly option even though he wasn’t a primary scorer.
Nielson averaged about 9 points a game for the season. His active off-ball defense and reliable man-to-man defense helped the Cossacks place fourth at state this past season.
In Rapid City, Nielson averaged about 10 points a game on 40 percent shooting from the field and cashed in 2-of-5 from deep for 35 percent. He hauled in about 3 rebounds in the three games along with 6 assists a game.
He continued his strong play on the defensive side getting about 10 steals for 2.5 steals a game.
By The Numbers
49: Percent shot from the field during the regular season.
8: Assists a game during the regular season. That was among the top for Class A during the regular season and was the most headed into the state tournament.
198: Points he scored over the course of the season, but none bigger than the two he had at the end of the Flandreau game to keep their state tournament hopes alive.
What’s Next
He will be playing with the South Dakota Attack this summer which include some of the top young players in the state. As for the upcoming season for Sioux Valley, Nielson is one of two starters returning. He will need to step up and become more of a leader and scorer for the Cossacks next season. He hopes to focus on being a threat from all three levels.