By David Rice
JTV Sports
(April 4, 2023 9:20 AM ET) Adrien Putnam led the Cardinals to a regional final, came into form as a player during the homestretch of the season, and stepped up when needed for his team.
For those reasons Putnam, of Michigan Center High School, earns the honor of being JTV’s 2023 Boys Basketball Player of the Year.
Adrien Putnam averaged 15 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals on 52 percent shooting for the Cardinals this season.
MCHS earned a district title this season, defeating a one-loss Napoleon team on their home court in the District Final. Michigan Center defeated Leslie in the Regional Semifinal then fell to Laingsburg (25-0) in the Regional Final.
Putnam stepped up when needed for MC this season in big games, including scoring 23 in the big district championship win over Napoleon.
Adrien has also been a fierce competitor for the Cardinals throughout his career. “Adrien is a quiet leader, but don’t let that fool you as he is a fierce competitor. He had some of his best games in our huge moments this year” said MC Head Coach Travis Gaddy.
It took a bit for Putnam to come into form this year, but once he found his play style, he took off. “He has a bit of an old-style game but a high ball IQ. It took him a bit to find his niche this year, but his confidence grew as the season went on” said Gaddy.
Congratulations to Putnam and our other finalists for JTV’s 2023 Boys Basketball Player of the Year.
OTHER PLAYER OF THE YEAR FINALISTS
Savonn Campbell – Jackson
Amarr Hunter – East Jackson
Mekhi Wingfield – Concord
Devonta Habern – Napoleon
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