Joe Lardaro Needs to Step Up for Freehold in 2019-2020
Greg Patuto
<p>As a sophomore, Lardaro saw limited time and did not log a double-digit scoring game. This season, he is not only a starter but he will be expected to takeover as Freehold's leader. That is quite a jump to make from one season to the next but Lardaro is ready for the challenge.</p>
<p>In an opening round loss to Donovan Catholic in the WOBM Christmas Classic, Lardaro turned heads on the court. Freehold ran much of their offense through the 6'5 junior. Once the Patriots fell behind, Lardaro was the No. 1 option to get them back in the game. Shots from long range were not falling for Freehold so they looked for the inside game and it worked. Lardaro finished with 13 points in the game and eight of them came in the fourth quarter. </p>
<p>Freehold had four players score over 200 points last season, and one go over 300 in Greg Billups. They led the Patriots to 24 wins on the season. The unfortunate part for the team is that they all graduated and have moved on. Lardaro is one of the Patriots' key returners along with Zach Orrico. the difference between the two is that Orrico scored more last season but Lardaro looks ready to take over in 2019-2020.</p>
<p>At 6'5, Lardaro already possesses the size needed to dominate. When watching his performance against Donovan Catholic, he showed to be a finesse player down low rather than a strong finisher. He is only a junior and will have time to develop but he will need to get more aggressive on the block. </p>
<p>There are not many knocks on Lardaro when he steps on the floor. He can step out and shoot from midrange and rebound with the best of them. Moving forward, Lardaro will be the top option for Lardaro as they enter Shore Conference competition.</p>
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