As we head into Saturday’s state finals games with two area teams represented, we wanted to look closer at each of the two teams from the area who are playing in the state finals.
Our game previews will provide plenty of discussion about the top players in the games, but with such great runs by New Haven and Westview, we wanted to carve out some time to talk about the names who are making big impacts but not getting as much attention as others.
SHANE RODGERS-SMITH, NEW HAVEN
New to the Bulldogs this season, Rodgers-Smith has been a big fresh of fresh air defensively and with his constant energy. He averages 7.2 points, 1.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.4 steals per game heading into the state finals, but number do little justification to what he has brought to the table. There isn’t an off switch for Rodgers-Smith and he has kept everything running at a constant speed for the tempo-oriented Bulldogs.
PIERCE YODER, WESTVIEW
If you are leaving Yoder open, you are making a critical mistake. But if you study the area, I am not telling you anything that you don’t already know. Shooting a team third best 42 percent from three point range, Yoder is good to give you a couple of long range makes per game, but he certainly doesn’t stop at two or three when he gets going. He is certainly one of the best pure shooters in Indianapolis this weekend.
MARQUAYLON JOHNSON, NEW HAVEN
Johnson has been a big catalyst player for the Bulldogs this season, chipping in some bigger games, but bringing a solid constant effort and a length that has been very disruptive. He averages 6.1 points and a steal per game heading into the state finals. Even as a non-high usage offensive player, his rim protection and ability to alter opposing offensive gameplans is important. And he certainly can hit big shots and have big offensive moments when needed, including against South Side in a timely moment.
DANIEL YODER, WESTVIEW
This Yoder has become Mr. Do Everything for Westview. One of the big two falling short any given night, Yoder can absolutely turn it up offensively. His craftiness at the rim and his effort to attack the offensive glass have made him a major asset as he enters the state finals averaging 11.7 points and 5.6 rebounds per game; Yoder averages a team second best 1.2 offensive boards per game. But he is also second on the Warriors in assists and leads the program in steals and deflections. He is also shooting a pretty strong 65.6 percent from the field.
DAYLEN JACKSON, NEW HAVEN
This senior has earned an increased role with his effort, leading him to be New Haven’s third leading rebounder heading into the state finals, as well as a 6.2 point per game scorer. While a long and physical front court piece, Jackson can absolutely find versatility with inside-out game. Jackson personally was a massive spark in the Delta game during semi state, leading the Bulldogs through a tough stretch to finish with 12 points in that game.
KAINE REINHOLD, WESTVIEW
Reinhold has altered his game more and more during his junior season. A season ago, he was a guy who played more as an undersized big for the Warriors at times, but this season his game has spread out. Reinhold shoots 50 percent from the field, tests his range out more often and provides a steady presence for a Westview team that has to love his added depth.
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
Be the first to comment