D1 District Final Stars D1 Edition
In part 2 of the Division I District Final recaps, we saw two very exciting endings with Centerville finishing off Lakota West 48-40 while LaSalle took out St. Xavier in overtime. Different guys impressed in multiple ways throughout the night with high hustle, defensive prowess, and nice offensive games. Below are my top performers from the nightcap.
Rich Rolf
Rich
Rolf
6'6" | PF
Centerville | 2022
State
OH
(2022) Centerville- The sophomore wasn’t the highest scorer in a matchup with Lakota West, but his ability to rebound the basketball was a huge help for the Elks. Rolf was a tenacious rebounder, resilient on the glass and taking advantage of smaller Firebird defenders unable to box him out. Rolf’s length specifically was impressive on the offensive end as he grabbed the ball over defenders at will
Julian Mackey
Julian
Mackey
6'3" | PG
Lakota West | 2020
State
OH
(2020) Lakota West- An extremely crafty guard, Mackey showed he could score from multiple levels. While he doesn’t appear to be the most physically imposing player at first glance, the senior played a great game, finding ways to score while also putting the ball in his teammates’ hands. He is a D3 target for sure.
Alex Afari (2020) Lakota West- While Mackey was the more offensive weapon for the Firebirds, Afari has a ton of length and met the ball at the rim several times on the defensive end. He was in the right place at the right time, creating turnovers and getting his hand on the ball many times. Able to defend multiple levels and physical as heck.
Jaylen Lemons
Jaylen
Lemons
5'10" | PG
La Salle | 2020
State
OH
(2020) LaSalle- The Lancers point guard handles the basketball against intense pressure. Has a quick change of direction and speed on his crossover dribble. Defensively defended St. X guards with his quick footwork and active hands. Brings intensity to both ends of the floor.
Kobe Rodgers
Kobe
Rodgers
6'3" | SG
St. Xavier | 2021
State
OH
(2020) St. Xavier- One of the best slashers throughout the night, Rodgers elevates on the drive and finishes at the rim at a high level. Moves well on the defensive end, covering help side and guarding the ball well. Shoots the midrange shot with confidence off the dribble and demands pressure.
