For a list of the other Gatorade State Boys Basketball POYs, click here.
THE WINNER: Kris Jenkins
THE BASICS
School: Gonzaga College (Washington, D.C.)
Grade: Senior
Position: Forward
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 250 pounds
Athletic achievement: He averaged 18.3 points, 10.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 3.3 steals and 1.4 blocks per game, leading the Eagles (27-5) to the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference quarterfinals and a third-place finish at the annual Alhambra Catholic Invitational Tournament. Jenkins averaged 19.8 points, 10.6 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 3.9 steals and 1.2 blocks as a junior. The two-time WCAC Player of the Year has participated in the NBPA Top 100 Camp each of the past two summers.
Academic excellence: Jenkins has maintained a B average.
Exemplary character: In addition to donating his time as a youth basketball instructor, he has volunteered locally on behalf of a homeless shelter and as a tutor for elementary school children.
THE PRAISE
“He is, simply put, a winner, making his teammates constantly better,” said Neil Berkman, head coach of rival Bishop Ireton (Alexandria, Va.). “He exemplifies good sportsmanship, works hard and seems to have very high character. Off the court, he carries himself with class, dignity and a matureness way beyond his years.
THE FUTURE: Jenkins has signed with Villanova.
