By CONOR NICHOLL
Labette County’s 6-foot-8 junior Hudson Baker has enjoyed a breakout season and has made a strong case for the state’s most improved big man. As a freshman, he delivered 2.7 points and 1.9 rebounds. Last year, Baker had 6.5 points and 5.9 rebounds.
This winter, Baker has exploded to 14.1 points and 8.6 rebounds a contest. He has displayed improved interior moves and scored in transition. That included an impressive dunk against Coffeyville. LC inbounded the ball under its own basket, made a half court guarded pass to Baker, who dribbled down and dunked.
Baker has shot 56 percent from the field in his career, though is at 57 percent this season. Entering this winter, Baker was 43 of 91 from the foul line. He is 55 of 102 from the foul stripe this year. Baker has improved as a rim protector and upped his blocks from 14 to 28.
Labette County is 8-6 this winter and will play Parsons (7-8) on Tuesday. LC defeated Parsons by 18 earlier this year. Labette County has key games Feb.17 against Atchison (13-1) and Feb. 21 versus Pittsburg (9-3). LC trails Pittsburg in the SEK standings.
Senior Joseph Paige has 9.2 points and 3.8 rebounds a contest. Junior Zavier Phillips has 8.8 points and 6.1 rebounds. Senior Tray Vinson has 6.4 points and four assists a game. Senior Griffin Eaton has 5.9 points and 2.9 rebounds per game. Senior Matthew Boyle has 4.2 points and 2.8 rebounds a contest. Paige has recently committed to Highland Community College football.
