Each season, the culmination of the Outside the Huddle Top 50 player countdown is the naming of our annual First Five, the highest preseason honor for OTH basketball coverage.
The First Five traces its lineage back to The News-Sentinel’s years of presenting “Fabulous Five” teams of the area’s best five players in both boys and girls basketball. This player is part of our seventh season of naming First Five players.
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No. 3 – Gavin Betten, Manchester
Betten has been a cornerstone for Manchester, establishing himself as a dominant force throughout his career and positioning himself as a strong candidate for Indiana All-Star recognition as a senior. Last season, he was one of just four players in the area to average a double-double, putting up an impressive 20.8 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 3 blocks per game. Betten is a nightmare matchup in the post, using his size, strength, and refined skill set to score efficiently and facilitate for his teammates. His impact doesn’t stop on offense; defensively, he’s a premier rim protector in Northeast Indiana, altering shots and anchoring Manchester’s defense. Betten’s all-around game and commanding presence make him one of the region’s most formidable players.
COACH’S QUOTE ON BETTEN
“Gavin is the best player I’ve ever coached. He can do it all. He can score from every spot on the floor and does a great job at getting his teammates open looks. He is a player that makes everyone around him better. His defense is what sets him apart from other top players in the area and state. He is one of the top shot blockers in the state and can guard all five positions on the court. He is averaging a double double in his three seasons, and I anticipate that will continue. There is no limit on how good Gavin can be this year.” – Manchester coach Eli Henson
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