Da’Vonshai Harden finishes off prolific career
The career of the most high-profile Topeka athletes in recent memory is winding down. Da’Vonshai Harden has spent more time in the spotlight in the past four years than just about anyone you can imagine. As starting quarterback for Topeka…
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Continue ReadingThe career of the most high-profile Topeka athletes in recent memory is winding down. Da’Vonshai Harden has spent more time in the spotlight in the past four years than just about anyone you can imagine.
As starting quarterback for Topeka High, Harden bore the pressure of sky-high expectations placed upon the perennial powerhouse. On the basketball court, he was an all-state caliber talent on a team bearing equally high expectations.
This fall, Harden inked a commitment to continue his football career at Kansas University. It is anticipated that he will be given ample opportunity to stay at quarterback, although his 6-foot-4 frame and overall athleticism might lead him to a position change down the road.
It’s hard to believe Harden might have been overshadowed during his career at Topeka High, but he teamed with Ky Thomas in the backfield and on the hardwood. Thomas, of course, was the Kansas Gatorade footballer of the year who had his pick of college offers.
But while Thomas elected to head to the University of Minnesota a semester early to jump start his college career, Harden is back on the basketball court for his senior season. He currently leads the Trojans in scoring, rebounding and steals, and says he actually is able to focus more on the right things, having his future plans sealed.
“It’s real easy because I can just focus on my teammates and focus on my game not have to worry about picking up basketball offers, since I’ve already got the football commit,” Harden said. “I can just focus on helping my teammates get better and get the wins.”
The Trojans sit at 4-3, but have athleticism at every position, including center where 6-foot-6 King Sutton is attracting college interest. Despite the slow start, the Trojans have the talent to make noise in the postseason.
Harden is happy to try to help develop those around him and hopefully leave a legacy.
“As a senior on both teams it’s just the same role,” Harden said. “Just be a leader for the younger ones, show them the way and hopefully they can follow in your footsteps when you’re gone.
“I’ve never won state in any sport in high school. So this is my last hurrah in high school, so I’m really trying to get that state championship for me and my bros.”
Harden currently averages 10.8 points per game, and is a particular threat from beyond the arc. He desires to be more than just a shooter, however, and believes his ability to distribute the ball on the football field translates naturally to the court.
“As a quarterback, it’s real easy to see everything on the court because I’m never looking down. I’m always looking up. My eyes are never looking at the ground. It’s easy to see open teammates and get the right passes into their hands.”
Harden was first team all-City last year, when he averaged 12.4 points and 6.3 rebounds and hit 28 3-pointers. He was second-team All-Centennial League and received All-6A honorable mention.
But while he loves basketball and excels at it, it also serves a purpose for his future.
“It keeps me in shape, so I don’t just get lazy sitting at home. It’s keeping me ready for my future in football.”