Combining these two Alter guards who put up very similar numbers, Brand and Leen combined for 21 PPG. Brand was more efficient from 2-point range and the foul line, while Leen shot slightly better from 3-point range. Leen averaged more assists while Brand took better care of the basketball. Brand scored a career-high 23 points in the state title game against Maysville as the Knights achieved ultimate glory with this pair of seniors playing a big role. Both would be capable of playing at the small college level if they so choose.

In both games I’ve watched this year, the senior duo of Leen and Joe Brand Joe Brand 5'11" | CG Kettering Alter | 2024 State OH have been key reasons why Alter’s offense has ran smoothly. The pair averages 10.7 and 10.1 PPG apiece. Both guards also shoot the 3 at a similar clip, 37 and 38% respectively. I was impressed with Leen’s ability to execute off the ball, running off screens and getting open. Also showing good hustle on loose balls, Leen ended up with a couple rebounds he had no business grabbing. Also knocking down a floater after a pump fake got him open, Leen used the threat of his shot to his advantage. When Alter gets production from their depth pieces, they are really tough to stop offensively.

If there’s one thing Alter will do this season, it’s shoot the ball from behind the 3-point line. Against Bishop Fenwick it was Ruffolo, Leen and Gavin Geisel Gavin Geisel 6'0" | SG Alter | 2023 State OH combining for 11 3-pointers made on the evening. Leen hit some tough ones too, including a one dribble pull-up in a defender’s face. When Alter shoots the ball with this much confidence, not many teams can slow them down. The question that the Knights will have to answer is can they get enough stops defensively to compete with the top teams in Division II.