Lutheran won the state championship after a roller coaster season, and it was about balance and players stepping up in key moments. One of their players who made a difference in the second half of the season is 6’1 combo guard Makkai. Makkai is a player we did not know a ton about heading into the year, but his play not only got him on our radars, but he was a pivotal part of the championship run. He averaged 8.3 points 2.7 rebounds, and just under 2 steals a game. He had moments where he got hot from deep, he scored in bunches, and was the primary defender who slowed down guards. He did what was asked of him, and that is how you earn more minutes. Makkai finished off senior year with a bang. 

Makkai’s stock rose during the postseason because of the way he stepped up when the games mattered most. He played with confidence, was decisive with the ball and consistently attacked the rim. His 15 point performance in the championship showed he could deliver on the biggest stage. Beyond the scoring he brought energy that lifted his team and helped set the tone. Performing like that under pressure turned heads and proved he’s a player capable of impacting winning when it matters most

Makkai did the dirty work for Lutheran and played a key role in the win with his toughness and effort. He finished with 10 points and 4 rebounds, but his impact went far beyond the stat sheet. Makkai battled for loose balls, fought for position inside and was constantly involved in the gritty moments that help teams win games. Whether it was setting tough screens, crashing the glass, or making hustle plays, he brought energy every time down the floor. His physical style and willingness to do the little things helped Lutheran control the tempo and wear down their opponent throughout the game

Makkai has made the most of his opportunity this season. He showcases his athleticism, competes on both ends of the floor, and is now in a solid stretch of basketball. The wins are also now piling up, and he’s been a consistent contributor and reason as to why. He’s putting up 8.1 points a game while also being a facilitator when the ball comes his way and crashing the boards as well. His work defensively is where he’s really made the most progress. He’s starting to look more and more like a defensive menace. He’s defending without fouling, getting his hands in the passing lanes, and finishing in transition on those steals and also kicking out to the open man. Those are cultural shifters and have their defense stepping up. He’s not a player who gets a ton of love, but he’s earned more attention and can be a player who can win them a playoff game with his play. 

Makkai has been a serviceable backcourt option with Lutheran, capable as a drive and kick option with this group. Especially willing with straight line drives, he looks to pressure them to facilitate kickouts to shooters. He holds his own at the point of attack, dependable walling off the paint when needed. 

Makkai finds consistent success while attacking the rim, comfortably going right at his opponent regardless of contact. Additionally a physical defender against backcourt matchups, he holds his own down low, rarely giving up space in the paint. The guard follows 4 points per game averages at 23-4 Lutheran, set for an immediate growth in opportunity given his two-way abilities.