central lyon boys’ basketball
Austin shines again in Lions’ playoff appearance
Calif Poncy | Sports Writer
cponcy@ncppub.com
As the season has gone on for the Central Lyon boys’ basketball team, the development of its young stars has become paramount. Seniors like Nathan Robinson, Porter Vogel and Liam Vander Zee have all turned in solid seasons and ended their high school careers in positive ways, but the offensive ability of sophomore Aric Austin and freshman Abram Metzger has shone, and that was true in the Lions’ postseason appearance, too.
In their game against Rock Valley, the Lions had a strong offensive day in a 67-48 loss to the Rockets, and it was Austin tasked with creating most of their offense. The sophomore guard had 15 points and was efficient as well, going 5-of-10 from the floor. It was the latest in a string of strong performances by Austin, who appears likely to be in a featured role with the Lions next season.
Freshman Metzger had a good day as well, scoring 8 points while leading the team with six rebounds.
The veteran leadership of Central Lyon was evident in the unselfishness of Vander Zee and Vogel, who combined for five assists, with Vander Zee sitting atop the leaderboard with three. Robinson, the other key senior in the Lions’ rotation, was important as a scorer, dropping in 5 points.
Leo Groen was solid also, going 2-of-3 from the field and scoring 4 points while recording a rebound and a block.
The Lions’ senior group had a positive impact on the final game, leaving behind a solid legacy, and the group of young Lions that emerged throughout the season looks to be a promising group that will help Central Lyon build on this season.
With Austin’s and Metzger’s contributions and assumed growth, the Lions are in good hands and are likely to be an improved squad next season.