Class AA Boys Sectional Playoff Basketball – Players To Watch

Dayshaun Walton – Green Tech

Walton may very well be the most exciting player in section 2 on the most exciting team.  The 16-2 Eagles are coming off a loss against one of New York State’s Elite programs in Mount Vernon. Walton’s size, speed, athleticism, and scoring ability make him a threat whenever he steps onto the floor, no matter the opponent.  He’ll make a college coach happy someday soon, but for now, his sights will be set on a sectional title.  

Mason Courtney – Shenendehowa

The senior Courtney has been on full display all season long for the Plainsmen, who are seeded lower than they may be used to in this year’s tournament (4). Regardless, every time Courtney steps onto the court, Shenendehowa has a chance.  He’s an above 20ppg scorer and has led his team to a number of wins and kept them in a few more.  Fresh off of a verbal commitment to Siena, Mason Courtney will be looking to continue Shen’s winning tradition this time of year.  

Ayden Harrison – CBA 

The 6’9” senior has led CBA to one of their highest seedings in recent history.  The brothers have dropped just 3 games all season in large part due to Harrison, and the well-put-together squad around him.  Harrison can stretch the floor, shoot the three, move well, and protect the rim at a high rate.  His length is unmatched, and CBA may be hard to beat if the opposition struggles to match or limit his production.

Isaiah Austin – Albany 

The 5th seeded Falcons can be misleading.  14-6 on the season, Albany has shown some real strong suits towards the end of the season.  Tight losses against Newburgh Free Academy and Albany Academy tested the Falcons, but apart from that, they won 11 of 12 after starting 4-3.  Isaiah Austin is the guy, and one of the most exciting to watch in the entire state. 

He averages the third-most points in Section 2 (23).  His prowess as a floor general and ability to get his teammates involved makes him even more dangerous.  What he lacks in overall size, he certainly makes up for in athleticism, bounce, and skill.  His tough-shot making may be unmatched.  A threat in the clutch may be the difference-maker in sectional play. 

Notes:

Don’t sleep on the Silver Warriors’ Gabe Eldaye who just falls outside of this list.  Niskayuna may be the most well-rounded team in the section, which is the hesitancy behind featuring Eldaye.  Great guard play and shooting, but it feels like Eldaye just ties it all together.  A natural leader with an ability to hit shots, finish at the rim with both hands, and find his teammates.  Don’t be surprised to see Eldaye and the rest of this Nisky side cutting down the nets at the end of the month.