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. 35-31.
No. 35 – Gavin Krull, Bellmont
Krull emerged as a breakout player in the NE8 last season, averaging 8.3 points and 1.6 assists per game, and playing a pivotal role in helping Bellmont establish itself as a strong conference contender. His reliable scoring, particularly from beyond the arc, gices the team an edge, and his confidence on the floor could set the tone for his teammates. This season, Bellmont will lean on Krull even more, looking to him not only as a primary scoring threat but also as a leader who can keep the team focused and driven.
COACH’S QUOTE KRULL
“Gavin took a lot of people by surprise last year with his consistent outside shooting. Gavin averaged [nearly] 9 points a game a year ago while shooting 40% from three, which led to him being a second team all NE8 selection. Gavin has worked hard this off season on his strength and on being more than just a shooter. Gavin is the leader of our team and we will rely heavily on him this season.” – Bellmont coach Payton Selking
No. 34 – Kaden Grau, Westview
Grau is a versatile, long-bodied player who maximizes his reach and agility on both offense and defense, making him a challenging matchup for opponents. Last season, he averaged 7.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game, showing he can impact the game in multiple ways. His length allows him to disrupt passing lanes, contest shots effectively, and make plays around the basket, giving Westview a valuable edge.
COACH’S QUOTE GRAU
“We are expecting him to step up and fill a big role for us this year. He will be a tough matchup each night for other teams to guard and he will need to help carry us on the glass. He will have to defend well against guards and bigs if we want to win championships.” – Westview coach Chandler Prible
No. 33 – Keyan Arroyo, Lakeland
Arroyo returns this season as Lakeland’s tempo setter and top returning scorer, bringing energy and a balanced skill set to the team’s lineup. Last season, he averaged 7.9 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, showcasing his ability to contribute in all facets of the game. As Lakeland aims for an NECC title, Arroyo’s consistency will be key—his steady hand and ability to push the pace can ignite the team’s offense and keep opponents off balance. If he can replicate last season’s dependability, Arroyo has the potential to lead Lakeland to new heights, making them a serious contender in the NECC.
COACH’S QUOTE ARROYO
“Keyan is a selfless player who has a great motor. His competitiveness will set the tone for our team.” – Lakeland coach TJ Schneider
No. 32– Robbie Finlinson, Warsaw
Finlinson is a crucial returning piece for a Warsaw team that kind of quietly built impressive depth last season and brings back many of its core contributors. Averaging 10 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game, Finlinson established himself as a reliable and confident shooter. His eagerness to score and his consistency make him a key offensive asset for Warsaw, especially as they aim to leverage their continuity and depth to make a strong push this season.
COACH’S QUOTE FINLINSON
“Robbie has a shooters mentality and has proven in big moments he’s capable of being one of our go-to guys. Robbie is a great compliment to our other pieces because how great of a teammate he is.” – Warsaw coach Matt Moore
No. 31 – Bryce Parnin, Fremont
Parnin can be a dominant force in the paint, standing out as one of the area’s premier shot blockers and rim protectors. Last season, he averaged 8.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and an impressive 2.7 blocks per game, demonstrating his ability to control the defensive end. Just one block shy of breaking his program’s career record, Parnin is on the verge of a historic milestone that underscores his impact as a defensive anchor. His physicality and timing make him a nightmare for opposing offenses, while his strong rebounding, particularly on the offensive glass, provides his team with crucial second-chance opportunities.
COACH’S QUOTE PARNIN
“Bryce has a frame and a skill set that isn’t seen too often at the 1A level. He grew a couple more inches in the offseason and played a lot of basketball over the summer. He is long and has a knack for getting his hands on the basketball. Bryce needs one block to tie the school record for a career. He rebounds well. He runs the floor well. He has nice touch. He has great court vision for a big. Bryce has put himself in a position to have a great year.” – Fremont coach Josh Stuckey
Be the first to comment