For the seventh 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 2025-2026 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. 45-41.
No. 45 – DaMarcus Wright, New Haven
Wright averaged 4.6 rebounds per game during the 2024-25 season and ranked as the team’s leading rebounder. He also averaged 6.7 points per game to go with 1.3 steals, and his physical presence, size and effort on the glass established him as a dependable two-way contributor. He is a forward with strength and ability to finish inside. He crashes the boards hard on both ends, sets tough screens, rotates quickly on defense, and communicates at a high level.
Coach’s Quote on Wright
“He is our glue guy. Does many of the little things that no one sees and thrives in his role. He is becoming more consistent shooting the ball which will help make us a more balanced team.” – New Haven coach Brandon Appleton
No. 44 – Mydin Burgher, Warsaw
A poised floor-leader who has already made a clutch impact for his team, Burgher often plays with the confidence and composure of a veteran. One of the signature moments of his season came when his 15-foot jumper at the buzzer secured an overtime victory — 62-60 — over Homestead highlighting both his readiness for big moments and his long-term potential. As the Tigers look to build momentum in the coming season, Burgher’s growing game makes him an intriguing player to watch as he continues to develop after a 7.7 point, 1.6 assists per game last season.
Coach’s Quote on Burgher
“Mydin has the ability to be one of the best two way players in the area. He made great strides last year and shooting the basketball at a high percentage and now the load goes on his shoulders to score the ball. He will be one of the best on ball defenders in the state.” – Warsaw coach Matt Moore
No. 43 – Nolan Kelly, West Noble
Kelly has steadily developed into a thoughtful and efficient guard who balances scoring. Last season he averaged 11.3 points per game, along with 3 rebounds and 2.7 assists, while shooting 36.4% from three-point range and posting an impressive 78% free-throw rate. Kelly’s three point prowess has become his statement, with it well known in the NECC that just can’t lose him defensively. He’s shown he can be active defensively and understands the need to impact both ends of the floor.
Coach’s Quote on Kelly
“Nolan has developed into a very good high school lead guard. He can make shots beyond the arc and off the dribble. Last year, his finishing around the rim was improved and helped him get to the free throw line more. We are excited to see continued development from Nolan. Opponents try to test Nolan because of his physical size, but he consistently rises to that challenge. His basketball IQ is very high and allows him to impact the game scoring and setting up his teammates. This will be his third year starting for us and we believe he is ready for a great senior season.” – West Noble coach Ethan Marsh
No. 42 – Ayle Taylor, Bishop Luers
Taylor brings both size and athleticism to the wing. While his profile highlights major contributions in football (especially as an edge/linebacker) more so than detailed basketball stats, he has demonstrated reliable scoring, rebounding and defensive potential on the perimeter as he is the returning stat leader for the Knights in many areas after the squad graduated their top 3 players. He averaged 8.7 points and 3.7 rebounds per game last season. He scored double digit points in 9 of his final 12 games last season, setting up this season as an exciting one; he scored a season best 18 points against Snider.
Coach’s Quote on Taylor
“Ayle is our leading scorer and rebounder returning from last year’s 21-win squad. Ayle is an excellent finisher around the rim and keeps possessions alive with offensive rebounds and hustle. Ayle will benefit greatly from the addition of Jonas Muya as it will allow him to post and face up against mismatches often. Ayle will be a huge part of both our offensive and defensive schemes this year. His physicality and toughness will contribute to our success on both ends of the floor.” – Bishop Luers coach Seth Coffing
No. 41 – Lantae Cassel, Heritage
Cassel appeared in 23 games and averaged 10.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.6 steals per game last season for the Patriots. This was a noticeable jump from his previous season and his confidence in using his athleticism and length only grew throughout the season. Offensively, he brings size and versatility, while defensively his ability to disrupt passing lanes and rebound from the wing gives his team added flexibility. His growth trajectory indicates that he is not only becoming a reliable secondary scoring option, but also someone who can contribute in multiple facets of the game and help the Patriots maintain balance. He had a five game stretch of double figure scoring in December and had 18 points and 10 rebounds against Canterbury.
Coach’s Quote on Cassell
“Lantae brings intensity and effort every single day. He’s a true gym rat, and the growth he’s shown each year has been remarkable. His commitment and versatility have been vital to what we’re building at Heritage — he affects the game in ways that go far beyond just the stats.” – Heritage coach Kyle Sovine
These opinions represent those of Bounce and Outside the Huddle. No opinions expressed on Outside the Huddle represent those of any of our advertisers. Follow Bounce on Twitter at Bounce_OTH
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