Centennial League unsung heroes from sub-state round 1
With opening round wins, five Centennial League teams advanced to the second round of sub-state. While the stars were out in the first round, there were some significant contributions from supporting cast. Here are some unsung heroes from the first…
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Continue ReadingWith opening round wins, five Centennial League teams advanced to the second round of sub-state. While the stars were out in the first round, there were some significant contributions from supporting cast.
Here are some unsung heroes from the first round of sub-state:
Beau Baumgardner Beau Baumgardner 5'11" | CG Emporia | 2020 State KS , senior, Emporia:
While Charles Snyder Charles Snyder 6'5" | PF Emporia | 2021 State KS went off for 27 in Emporia’s win over McPherson, the 5-foot-11 Baumgardner pitched in an essential 14 points, including two 3-pointers. The consistent performances of the multisport star Baumgardner rarely make headlines. But he scored 12 in the last regular season win over Junction City.
Hunter Hines, junior, Emporia:
Like Baumgardner, Hines labors in the shadow of Snyder and Skyler Douglas. But in the sub-state game against McPherson, Hines scored 11 points, including two 3-pointers. The Spartans now must face 20-0 Andover, the #2 rated team in the 5A.
Jalen Smith, junior, Topeka High:
Smith was relatively quiet in the first half against Liberal. But when the Redskins tried to put together a comeback in the second half, Smith raced to several runouts and knifed though the defense for several buckets. He scored 16 points, 13 in the second half. Smith had six games of 16 or more during the regular season. Smith and the Trojans will now travel to Free State.
Dre Durall, senior, Topeka West:
Durall’s playing time, and his production, dipped dramatically after the Christmas break. But he was huge in the Chargers’ win against Bonner Springs. The senior went 6-8 from the field and 3-3 from the line for 15 points. Perhaps just as huge were his 9 rebounds. The Chargers face 8-13 Blue Valley Southwest, which upset Pittsburg.
Chris Hargreaves, senior, Topeka West:
In support of Durall and Trevion Alexander, who scored 25, the 3-point specialist Hargreaves was big in the win against Bonner Springs. Hargreaves connected on two 3-pointers and finished with 10 points.
Owen Braxmeyer Owen Braxmeyer 6'1" | CG Manhattan | 2021 State KS , junior, Manhattan:
Surrounded by seniors, the junior Braxmeyer continues to shine for the Indians. He led the team in scoring with 16, including 6-7 from the line. The Indians will host Wichita West Saturday.
Special mention:
Howard Johnson, sophomore, Junction City:
The Blue Jays had their season ended by Free State. But Johnson did all he could to keep Junction City in it. He hit four 3-pointers and finished with 17.