CenTX I35 High School Showdown: Standout Game-Changers

[player_tooltip player_id='2557794' first='Darone' last='Leakes'] displayed a confident and fluid jump shot, making him a constant threat from anywhere on the floor. Whether catching the ball in rhythm or finding space, he let it fly with ease, showing no hesitation in any shooting scenario. His catch-and-shoot ability, particularly from long range, was college-level impressive, demonstrating his readiness for high-level play. Leakes' jumper was textbook, with efficient mechanics and a consistent form that made him tough to defend. On top of his shooting prowess, Leakes had an innate ability to navigate the floor smoothly. His understanding of spacing and movement allowed him to get to his spots effortlessly, making him a versatile offensive player. Whether creating his shot or capitalizing on open looks, Leakes controlled the game with his scoring ability and court awareness.     [player_tooltip player_id='2554882' first='Kyle' last='Kihlberg'] wasted no time making his presence felt in the paint, both physically and on the scoreboard. At 6-foot-5 with good size and the ability to play at his own pace, Kihlberg showcased polished footwork that extended from the block to the pinch post. He had a strong prowess for establishing deep positioning down low, using his body to shield defenders and create space. His advanced footwork was a standout, utilizing drop steps, pivots, and up-and-under moves in the post to keep defenders off balance, while his soft touch around the rim allowed him to finish with finesse. At the pinch post, Kihlberg could face up his defender, using jab steps or a quick spin move to get into the lane. Reliable on the glass, he frequently cleaned up his teammates' misses with putback tip-ins. His unique blend of size and skill, combined with his ability to play at his own pace rather than relying solely on athleticism, set him apart.     [player_tooltip player_id='2556837' first='Tate' last='Tapken'] played with a relentless motor and hustle, making him the ultimate glue guy on the court. His impact is felt through his intangibles—affecting the game in ways that don't always show up in the box score. Tapken excels at doing the little things, such as diving for loose balls, setting hard screens, and defending multiple positions. His energy and effort are contagious, often sparking his team by making winning plays without needing the ball in his hands. Whether it's grabbing key rebounds, making timely defensive stops, or setting his teammates up for success, Tapken's presence elevates the overall team dynamic.     [player_tooltip player_id='2613241' first='Maverick' last='Larson'] was a valuable glue guy, always willing to do the little things and the dirty work to help his team or secure the ball. His versatility and high basketball IQ made him an essential piece of the team's success, contributing in ways that went far beyond the box score. Larson was capable of doing whatever was needed—whether spacing the floor, catching and shooting from deep, defending on and off the ball, making timely passes, cutting, crashing the boards, or bringing relentless energy and effort to every play.     [player_tooltip player_id='2613240' first='Hudson' last='Manhire'] came off the bench and played his role exceptionally well, controlling the boards with his strong positioning, relentless motor, and solid instincts on both ends of the floor. He consistently crashed the boards and planted himself in the rebounding triangle, excelling at boxing out opponents. Using his body to seal off players and create space, Manhire secured crucial rebounds for his team. His awareness allowed him to track the ball well as it came off the rim, making him a reliable force on the glass.