Now, with schools well into winter sports programs, another outstanding Brookings-Harbor High School student athlete has been chosen Barron’s ‘Star Student Athlete’. Student athletes are selected by their coach’s for their outstanding efforts in the sports arena, as well as their exemplary scholastic and community participation.
This weeks selection is 6′ 7″ senior center, #55, Brad Russell, a two year member of the Bruins varsity boys basketball team, chosen by head coach, Brandon Hodges for his leadership, consistency, and dominance at the center position for the Bruins this season.
Russell has been a presence in the paint both offensively and defensively for the Bruins all season, forcing opposing teams to rely on outside shooting by denying opposing offensive penetration, making players change their shots on the way to the basket.
“Blocks aren’t what I ask him to do” coach Hodges said, “so those numbers are not what they could be because we ask him to stay on his feet to avoid foul trouble. Because of his size he is way more effective just getting in their space and making them take tough (bad) shots.”
Russell has been averaging 15 rebounds per game, and although he is averaging 3 fouls per game, 9 of those rebounds are defensive, while averaging almost 2 blocks per game.
Offensively, Russell has been a big problem for most teams this season, averaging 20 points per game, shooting 60% from the field, 6 offensive rebounds per game, and hitting 25% of his 3 point attempts from behind the arc, while shooting almost 45% from the freethrow line.
Brad has been very dedicated to the game, and has always worked hard to be the very best” said Coach Hodges. Congratulations Brad, and good luck in all your future endeavors.
Special thanks to corporate sponsors Barron’s Home Furnishings and In Motion Graphics who make this recognition possible.
