For the sixth season in a row, Bounce and Outside the Huddle are counting down who they feel are the top 50 individual players in northeast Indiana heading into the 2024-2025 season.
Want to know how we come up with our rankings? Click here.
Today, we continue the countdown on the boys hoops side with positions No. 40-36.
No. 40 – Gradin Swoverland, Jay County
Swoverland is a dynamic, rangy shooter with a knack for making an impact on both ends of the floor. Last season, he averaged 9.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.6 steals per game, proving himself as a reliable scorer and a tenacious defender. His ability to hit shots from deep stretches defenses, while his length and agility allow him to disrupt passing lanes and generate turnovers. This season, he’s set to be an integral player who can shift momentum with his shooting and all-around playmaking.
COACH’S QUOTE SWOVERLAND
“Gradin is a good player. He is very versatile and we look forward to him leading our team. If Gradin has a great year, we will have a great year.” – Jay County coach Jerry Bomholt
No. 39 – Jayvon Irby, South Side
Irby is a promising talent with a head start in experience, having gained significant early playing time last season that has helped him develop beyond his grade level. Averaging 9.8 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game, Irby showcased alot of more advanced that expected offensive range. His early exposure to high-level competition has sharpened his skills and prepared him to take on a larger role this year.
COACH’S QUOTE IRBY
“Jayvon should pick up where he left off last year. We saw the growth he displayed from the start of the season to end of the season during his freshman campaign. As an experienced sophomore we are looking forward to watching him bring the same hard nosed approach he displayed last year along with more poise and confidence as he has a year of varsity under his belt.” – South Side coach JJ Foster
No. 38 – Adam McBride, Norwell
McBride is a natural on the court, bringing a distinct style despite his deep basketball roots as the son of a coach and the brother of one of Norwell’s all-time greats. Last season, he averaged 9.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, showcasing his instinctive feel for the game. While his family background is evident in his strong fundamentals and court awareness, McBride’s approach is uniquely his own, marked by his adaptability within Norwell’s offense.
COACH’S QUOTE MCBRIDE
“Adam has been improving during his time here at Norwell. He has worked hard on his overall game and his leadership. We expect Adam to provide strong leadership for our team this year, and we look forward to seeing his progress as a senior this season.” – Norwell coach Mike McBride
No. 37 – Nolan Hiteshew, Leo
Hiteshew enters this – his third varsity season – with high expectations, ready to step into a leadership role and become a key contributor for Leo. Last year, he averaged 8.9 points and 2.7 rebounds per game, showing glimpses of his potential to impact the game. His deep familiarity with the Leo program has given him an expanded role as a junior. Hiteshew is expected to bring both stability and energy on the court.
COACH’S QUOTE HITESHEW
“Nolan has the pure skill level and athletic ability to be great in all aspects of the game. He has made large strides as a decision maker and a competitor. If that continues, he will be able to have a very efficient and effective year, which will have a great impact on our team’s ability to win games. He could definitely be an X-factor for us this year.” – Leo coach Derek Hinen
No. 36 – Redick Zolman, Central Noble
Zolman is a steady and reliable presence for Central Noble, providing consistency in a lineup that has seen changes with offseason personnel shifts. Averaging 10.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game last season, Zolman has proven he can be counted on to deliver both scoring and support on the boards. His dependable style and approach on the floor make him the anchor Central Noble needs amid the team’s transitions.
COACH’S QUOTE ZOLMAN
“Redick is a strong and quick guard who will be vital to our team’s defense and offense. A returning all-NECC selection and senior, Redick will be a leader on and off the court for CN. I look forward to seeing Redick use his experience to lead this team through this season.” – Central Noble coach Ben Lemmon
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