THE WINNER: Tyler Hagedorn

THE BASICS

School: Norfolk (Neb.)
Grade: Senior
Position: Guard/forward
Height: 6-foot-9
Weight: 215 pounds

Athletic achievement: He averaged 17.3 points, 6.7 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game this past season, leading the Panthers (25-1) to the Class A state quarterfinals. A returning Lincoln Journal Star Third Team Super-State and Omaha World-Herald Third Team All-Nebraska selection, he shot 50.3 percent from the field, 42.2 percent from 3-point range and 77.3 percent from the free-throw line.

Academic excellence: Hagedorn has maintained an A average and served on his school’s student council.

Exemplary character: A member of the National Honor Society, Future Business Leaders of America, Key Club International and DECA, he has donated his time as a youth basketball instructor and has volunteered on behalf of both his church and Mercy Meals of America.

THE PRAISE

“He’s a great player from a great program, and most importantly a great kid,” said Scott Steinbrook, head coach of rival Kearney High. “He’s grown into a leader for Norfolk, he’s a fierce competitor, and is very well respected by the players on my team. Tyler has represented himself, his family, his school and his entire community remarkably well over the course of this season, as well as his entire career.”

THE FUTURE: Hagedorn has signed with South Dakota.