Game Changers off the Bench in Regional Play

The 6th and 7th Region tournaments have officially wrapped up, with St. Xavier and Butler punching their tickets to the UK Healthcare Boys Basketball Sweet 16. Since were still a week away from the state tournament, let's take a look back as some of the top performers off the bench during the regional semifinals and championships in Louisville.    [player_tooltip player_id='2429606' first='Josh' last='Lindsay']'s one-handed slam late in the 4th quarter of the 7th Region semifinals dominated highlight reels, but it was Johnson's floor-diving steal that led to the fast break. Defensive sparks weren't all the veteran 6th man provided for the Tigers. With 30 seconds left in the first quarter, Bryce nailed a 3 from the right wing and then another from the same spot midway through the 2nd quarter. His two-way play was invaluable to St.X's regional victory and should remain so as the Tigers eye a Sweet 16 run.     Garr's role is limited on such as talented St.X roster, but he plays it very well. He showcased his scoring ability in the 7th Region quarterfinals, scoring a game-high 16 points including two 3pt FGM and a one-handed dunk in transition. His hustle and ability to run the floor throughout the tournament helped the Tigers punch their ticket to Rupp. With a unique combo of size, strength and shooting potential, expect to hear much more of the promising sophomore as his career progresses.     Having transferred from Manual after his sophomore season and now attending Ballard, Towns helped the Bruins reach the 7th Region title game. He provided an instant defensive spark when his number was called, using his quick hands and lateral speed to disrupt the flow of opposing offensives. He also moved well without the ball and made himself available for backdoor opportunities at the rim. With Ballard losing key guard play to graduation, expect Towns to have a more significant role next season.     Green is one of the more underrated athletes in the state's loaded 2028 class. His role doesn't require much scoring, but he always seems to be in the right place at the right time. He secured a steal and made the assist to [player_tooltip player_id='2647506' first='Adrian' last='Wilder'] for the go ahead 3pt FG that clinched the Bears' 6th Region title. His defensive prowess as a rim protector, however, was his most valuable contribution to the undersized Bears in route to their 6th Region championship. He had several loud blocks throughout the tournament, including a monster chase down on a DuBois fast break during the semifinals.     For a lack of better terms, Tinsley is "about a bucket" and a big reason for Butler's success. The Bears play without a traditional big, but its deep pool of skilled guards can overwhelm opponents. Although he isn't the Bears' first option, Steve might be the best of them all at getting downhill and finishing tough drives through contact at the rim. He showcased advanced ballhandling and footwork to shift the defense and get to his spots throughout Butler's successful 6th Region tournament run.     Up to 6'6" now, Prince has the intangibles to be a scholarship-level prospect in the future. He played big minutes for a Dubois squad that made its first ever appearance in the 6th Region tournament. His long wiry frame and ability to get off the ground quick allowed him to alter shots at the rim. He made even more of an impact as a defensive threat at the top of the Lions' zone. After tying with senior Kenyon Sykes for a team-high in RPG (4.8) throughout the postseason, expect to hear much more of Prince as a freshman next season.     Ryan averaged 11 PPG on 50% overall shooting from the field in DeSales' 6th Region tournament run. He provided much needed offensive sparks at times, supporting facilitation and shooting duties. He scored 6 straight points to start the 3rd quarter of the semifinals, including an offensive rebound putback under the rim, a tough drive that resulted in free throws, and a game-tying 3pt FG. Ryan's gameplay helped keep the Colts in the game before JTown eventually pulled away in the 4th.      In a game that most expected JTown to gain an early lead, DeSales hung tight for the first three quarters of play in the 6th Region semifinals. It was a defensive masterclass led by Faulkner, however, that propelled the Chargers to a double-digit win and a chance at the regional title. He owned the assignment versus one of the best shooters in the state and helped himself to 3 STLS in the 2nd half alone. He kept the same energy in the championship game versus Butler, showcasing a defensive intensity and willingness to get on the floor that was second to very few.

The 6th and 7th Region tournaments have officially wrapped up, with St. Xavier and Butler punching their tickets to the UK Healthcare Boys Basketball Sweet 16. Since were still a week away from the state tournament, let's take a look back as some of the top performers off the bench during the regional semifinals and championships in Louisville.