MVP: Sam Boudreau
The consensus pick across the rec community, Sam Boudreau has been dominating the league for years, and is no doubt gearing up for an epic finale to his rec career. An uber-skilled forward who possesses an impressive all-around repertoire highlighted by elite finishing ability, outside shooting, and rebounding, Boudreau is bound to have a legendary senior campaign. With a strong supporting cast of teammates (including an already-fortified chemistry with backcourt mate Bradley teDuits), Boudy will have an easy time slicing and dicing his way through any and all competition this season.
Other potential contenders: Jeremy Keast, Matthew Cota, Kasey Griffiths, Kyle Plausse, Jack Barry
Defensive Player of the Year: Dougie Tompkins
Anyone who's played with him knows that Dougie Tompkins is an absolute pest on the defensive side of the ball. Despite his small stature, Tompkins will look to lock up the opposing team's best player with his unprecedented quickness and tenacity. Expect a season of absolute defensive domination from this star sophomore, who not only possesses exceptional man-to-man and help D techniques but also has a knack for grabbing even the most ambitious of rebounds.
Other potential contenders: Colin teDuits, Nate Townsend, Jeremy Keast, Jackson Graham, Chase Herberich
Rookie of the Year: Chris Smith
To be frank, Chris Smith is light-years ahead of any other freshman in the league this year. The 6"2 southpaw will look to turn some heads this season with his impressive size and skillset. Rumor has it that he outperformed former rec superstar Will Manzi at varsity tryouts this past week. Who knows, he may turn out to be a legitimate MVP contender as the season progresses.
Other potential contenders: None
Sixth Man of the Year: Sam Volante
The prototypical role player, Sam Volante has garnered a reputation over the years for catalyzing team chemistry and being the inspirational leader for winning squads. Although small and not tremendously athletic, Volante makes up for his deficits with hustle and effort that is unmatched. He's also known to knock down the occasional straight-away three pointer, usually to ice the game during crunch time. Look for Volante to be an impactful contributor off the bench for Team Strauss this season.
Other potential contenders: Will Bordes, Max Jarboe, Grant Willsie, Josh Booth, Ryan Taylor, Ben Rivet
Most Improved Player: Harrison Southwick
After having what many consider to be the worst rec season of all time last-season, Harrison "Meat Wagon" Southwick has a real chance to prove his doubters wrong this year. In his debut campaign, Southwick struggled to avoid double dribbles and run without his knees colliding. Fortunately, Harry whipped himself into tip-top shape during the fall and looks to surprise everyone with improved athleticism and court awareness.
Other potential contenders: Zach ElMasri, David Kimetto, Matt Heisner, Ivan Sturm, Logan Hilberg
Sleeper Pick: Simon Chandler
Star soccer forward, fantasy football protege, outrageously underrated basketball player: Simon Chandler is a man of many titles, which he will be the first to let you know. Regarded by most as nothing more than a distraction on the court (courtesy of his stunning good looks), Chandler has the potential to take the league by storm this season. With opposing defenses focusing most of their attention on his star teammate Andrew Watkins, Chandler has the perfect opportunity to showcase his shooting skills and defensive prowess, and potentially make a push for a spot on the All-Star team.
Other potential contenders: Ryan Bernard, Connor McEleney, Jamie Smith, Jacob Strauss, Tucker Granville
Worst Player: Will Zinkann
It should be noted that this year's draft was delayed three hours as each team took all possible measures to avoid drafting notorious team cancer Will Zinkann onto their squads. This man doesn't pass. He doesn't rebound. He doesn't play defense. He incites fights on the court, with his opponents and his own teammates. His rooster-ish resemblance scares away parents and referees alike. Will is going to have a miserable season, and he might cost Team Townsend any chance at winning a singular game.
Other potential contenders: Alex Castellano
Coach of the Year: McNamara
McNamara undoubtedly has a talented squad, but it will take an extraordinary display of coaching and team management in order to keep his players' personalities in check. I'm predicting a strong regular season and playoff push from this team, and for this to come to fruition, McNamara will have to develop into the championship-worthy leader and game manager that I know he is capable of becoming.
Other potential contenders: David "Mainerd" Southwick
League Champs: Team Manzi
League MVP. All-Star redhead. Impeccable depth and team chemistry. Handsome coach with a championship pedigree. This is an easy one.
