Prospect Spotlight: Layne Stricker (2022 Southridge)

Jed Tai February 17, 2022 @ 04:13 PM

Despite the pre-season prognostications, Southridge is firmly in the playoff hunt. A huge reason why has been the play of [player_tooltip player_id="1079541" first="Layne" last="Stricker"]. The solid 6-foot-6, 210-pound swingman has bought in with the changes asked of him and he’s put together the kind of senior season that has not only led to wins on the court, but also potential post-season honors and college opportunities for himself. "We started off the season pretty rocky but slowly our practices have come along and we’ve built comraderie," Stricker said. "We’ve really connected well as a team. I’ve taken the jump as one of the main seniors on the team and have tried to show how my leadership can impact the team. I’ve helped guide some of the young guys through." Stricker’s leadership on the court has come with the adjustments he’s made with his game. Throughout his high school career he’s been known for his ability to hit shots from long range. But he’s become more than simply an outside shooter - he’s become one of the top rebounders in the Metro League and he’s also expanded his ability to be more of a complete offensive player. "I decided to put on some weight so I could help score in the paint and also to get around guys," Stricker said. "I really tried to work on my footwork so I could make some jump stops and pivots." With his overall improvement in his all-around game, the results are clear - Stricker currently averages about 15 points and 9 rebounds per game. Add in his size for a wing and Stricker is a legitimate college basketball prospect. He’s left his recruitment so far to Southridge head coach Phil Vesel, who notes that Linfield and NWAC programs have been in touch. To that end, Stricker is keeping things open but has one thing in a program he’s looking for. "I want something team-based, where I feel it’s strength in numbers instead of they have a couple of guys that can get them a bucket and everyone else is a role player," Stricker said. "I feel that strength in numbers is a lot more fun." Stricker currently ranks as the #97 player in the PrepHoops Oregon Class of 2022 rankings.