12.0 pts 1.8 stl – 53.1% FG/46.7% 3PT

Bennett is another one of Emerald Ridge’s seniors who made school history. Not only did they win the first trophy in Jag’s men’s basketball history, they did so by taking down the top seed at the tournament. He was efficient from different levels, balanced in his attack, and he made big plays in big spots. Not only did he hit some big shots down the stretch, but he made big plays on defense and going after loose balls, all culminating in a new bar set for Emerald Ridge boys basketball.

15 pts 2 stls 6/9 FG

Bennett made some key plays across their upset victory over top-seeded Mount Si. He was able to cash in from each level, working hard on and off the ball to create good looks. He also made two huge plays at the end, diving and securing a loose ball, and then sinking two free throws with five seconds remaining to put them up five.

14 pts

Bennett started the game off hot, scoring eight first-quarter points before picking up a couple of early fouls. After sitting out most of the second quarter, he came back to hit some clutch second-half shots to go along with some great defense that helped the Jags build their lead and advance to the next round.

The Emerald Ridge point guard is a complete player who has made huge strides offensively and has become a legit shooter from 3-point range. He puts in work on the defensive end to lead the effort on that side of the floor, but he’s also a true point guard who can run an offense, create off the dribble, lead them through pressure, and come up in big moments.

The defensive-minded guard has really elevated his offensive play over the past year, and he’s been showing all the elements of being a complete point guard this spring. He can defend at a high level, knocks down open shots out to three, can create off the bounce in a pinch, and has been much stronger on his downhill drives. He is a kid who will just find ways to make an impact on defense, drawing charges, chasing down plays from behind, playing active off the ball, and while his defense will continue to be his calling card, he’s really become a reliable offensive threat and expanded his game.

Had a strong defensive game per usual against Rogers in a winner-to-state game but was also a key scorer/playmaker down the stretch to fend off a Rogers run. There were a couple of plays where he looked pass where he should have been more selfish, but learned from that on the next couple of possessions and turned up the heat on the defense for some strong rim takes. Then mixed in a big three to put them up nine with less than a minute to go, and sealed the deal with strong shooting at the foul line. Had 12 fourth-quarter points, nine in the last couple minutes to help his team punch their ticket to State.

Bennett has put in a lot of work on his offensive game over the last year and it has shown early on this season. He’s a solid point guard who thrives on the defensive side of the ball but has shown a lot more ability to score the rock from different spots this year. He continues to improve his jumper, not just in terms of range and consistency, but being able to create separation off the dribble and sink shots off of different gathers and on the move. He also does a good job shielding the rock on his drives and creating contact with solid footwork in order to get good looks at the cup.

Another proven two-way guard, Bennett thrives on harassing ballhandlers with his tight on-ball defense, forcing mistakes and getting his hands on loose dribbles. He’s really tightened up that outside shot and has been more aggressive looking for ways to get inside the defense to score and create.