New York State Basketball Player Of The Year
Basketball is one of the most celebrated sports in America, with millions of people following their favorite teams and players in the NBA, NCAA, and high school championships. In New York state, basketball is also a big deal, with many talented players competing for recognition and awards. One of the most coveted titles in New York high school basketball is the New York State Basketball Player of the Year award, given to the best player in the state based on their performance, skill, and sportsmanship. In this article, we'll take a closer look at this prestigious award and the players who have won it in recent years.
What is the New York State Basketball Player of the Year Award?
The New York State Basketball Player of the Year Award is an annual award given to the best high school basketball player in New York state. The award is presented by USA Today, MaxPreps, and the National Guard, and is based on a combination of statistical analysis, team success, individual awards, and character. The award is open to all high school players in the state, regardless of their division, class, or region. The winner is selected by a panel of sports journalists, coaches, and experts from around the state.
Previous Winners of the New York State Basketball Player of the Year Award
Since its inception in 2006, the New York State Basketball Player of the Year Award has been won by some of the best high school players in the state. Here are some of the previous winners:
- 2006: Curtis Kelly, Rice High School
- 2007: Donte Greene, Towson Catholic High School (Baltimore, MD)
- 2008: Brandon Triche, Jamesville-DeWitt High School
- 2009: James Southerland, Cardozo High School
- 2010: Tobias Harris, Half Hollow Hills West High School
- 2011: Ashton Pankey, St. Anthony High School (Jersey City, NJ)
- 2012: Isaiah Whitehead, Lincoln High School
- 2013: Tyler Ennis, St. Benedict's Prep (Newark, NJ)
- 2014: Terry Larrier, The Phelps School (Malvern, PA)
- 2015: Cheick Diallo, Our Savior New American School
- 2016: Rawle Alkins, Word of God Christian Academy (Raleigh, NC)
- 2017: Hamidou Diallo, Putnam Science Academy (Putnam, CT)
- 2018: Joseph Girard III, Glens Falls High School
- 2019: R.J. Davis, Archbishop Stepinac High School
- 2020: Posh Alexander, Our Saviour Lutheran
As you can see, many of the players who have won the New York State Basketball Player of the Year Award have gone on to have successful basketball careers in college and the NBA. Some of the notable names include Tobias Harris, Cheick Diallo, and Hamidou Diallo, who currently plays for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Who Will Be the Next New York State Basketball Player of the Year?
As of this writing, the winner of the 2021 New York State Basketball Player of the Year Award has not been announced. However, there are several players who are considered strong contenders for the title. Here are just a few:
- Aden Holloway, The Masters School
- Ryan Conway, Dulaney High School (Timonium, MD)
- Seth Pinkney, Archbishop Wood High School (Warminster, PA)
- Chance Westry, Sierra Canyon High School (Chatsworth, CA)
- J.J. Starling, La Lumiere School (La Porte, IN)
Of course, there are many other talented players in the state who could make a strong case for the award, and it ultimately comes down to the panel's decision. Regardless of who wins, it's clear that the New York State Basketball Player of the Year Award is one of the most prestigious honors a high school basketball player can receive in the state.
Conclusion
The New York State Basketball Player of the Year Award is a symbol of excellence and achievement in high school basketball, recognizing the best players in the state who demonstrate exceptional skill, character, and sportsmanship. With a long list of talented players who have won the award in the past, and the promise of new stars to come in the future, it's clear that basketball will continue to be a big deal in New York for years to come.
