Some notes and thoughts on the 2013-14 Star-Advertiser Boys Basketball All-State Fab 15 selections, which were published in today’s Star-Advertiser.
• There were some stellar defenders on the hardwood, including top vote-getters Jacob McEnroe (Farrington) and Zach Buscher (‘Iolani). They are similar in height — both are 6-3 — but they have different strengths as defenders. McEnroe is flat-out among the best athletes at that size, able to cover any position while protecting the rim when necessary. Buscher was simply challenging on the ball and on staying with his man on drives. His length and lanky frame were not common at the guard position, and he knew it.
Josh Burnett’s versatility and aggressiveness made him an elite defender, as well. Konawaena’s Brandon Awa and Punahou’s Micah Ma‘a rounded out the first five. Also getting significant point totals are Kanawai Noa (Punahou), Kupa‘a Harrison (Kalaheo), Cyrus Kama (Lahainaluna), Hugh Hogland (‘Iolani) and Erik Yamada (‘Iolani) rounded out the second five.
• Most improved player honors went to ‘Iolani’s Ikaika Phillip. Kaloa, Harrison, Jaycob Smith (Kamehameha), J.B. Kam (Punahou) and Phillip Thomas (Baldwin) were the next highest vote-getters.
• While Dean Shimamoto of ‘Iolani earned coach of the year honors, Allen Silva of Farrington was second and Campbell’s Wyatt Tau were second and third, respectively. Also receiving votes were Alika Smith (Kalaheo), John Dudley (Lahainaluna), Wayne Gushiken (Baldwin), Kelly Grant (Maryknoll), Steve Hathaway (Roosevelt) and Donald Awa (Konawaena) also got votes.
• Best concession stand. Kaiser and Baldwin got votes, but the ‘Iolani Classic got some attention, too, as did Moanalua, McKinley and Radford.
• The rest of the categories didn’t get enough votes to merit mention, though I’ll post this: one voter enjoyed the Maui-Lahainaluna matchup (Jan. 30) above all, and another voted for ‘Iolani-Maryknoll.
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