The Gatorade State Boys Basketball Players of the Year were selected based on athletic production and impact in the 2015-16 fall season. Each winner also demonstrated high academic achievement and exemplary personal character, including volunteerism, sportsmanship and community leadership.

For the complete list of Gatorade State Boys Basketball Player of the Year winners, click here.

THE WINNER: Brendan Howard

THE BASICS

School: Great Falls (Mont.)
Grade: Junior
Position: Forward
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 205 pounds

Athletic achievement: He led the Bison to a 13-9 record and the quarterfinals of the Class AA state tournament this past season. Howard averaged 25.1 points, 10.4 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game. He is a two-time First Team All-State honoree and was selected to the USA TODAY American Family Insurance ALL-USA Montana First Team as a freshman and sophomore.

Academic excellence: Howard has maintained a 3.85 GPA.

Exemplary character: A mentor for younger students, he has volunteered locally on behalf of a food pantry, the Salvation Army and youth sports programs.

THE PRAISE

“Howard is a player you have to double team or he’ll kill you,” said John Hollow, head coach at Helena High. “He just plays hard and he’s a great rebounder. It’s almost impossible to keep him off the glass.”

THE FUTURE: Howard will begin his senior year of high school this fall.