THE WINNER: Wayde Sims

THE BASICS

School: University Lab School (Baton Rouge, La.)
Grade: Junior
Position: Forward
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 210 pounds

Athletic achievement: He led the Cubs to a 33-3 record and a second consecutive Class 3A state championship this past season. In a 77-60, title-clinching victory against John Curtis High, Sims collected 27 points, 14 rebounds and two assists, capturing Most Outstanding Player honors in the Class 3A state tournament for the second straight season. A returning Class 3A First Team All-State selection as named by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association, Sims averaged 17.6 points, 9.5 rebounds, 1.5 steals, 1.1 assists and 1.1 blocks per game in 2014-15. He shot 62.8 percent from the field and 71.3 percent from the free-throw line.

Academic excellence: Sims has maintained a 3.37 GPA and represents one of the state’s top academic candidates in meeting the Gatorade Award’s broad criteria.

Exemplary character: A member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, he has also volunteered as part of multiple service initiatives on behalf of his church.

THE PRAISE

“He is a good basketball player that is fundamental and plays the game hard,” said Brandon White, head coach of rival Parkview Baptist School. “He uses both hands really well. Wade finished exceptionally well around the rim. He plays above the rim, and he can consistently make a 15-foot jump shot. Not only is he a good basketball player, but also he’s an even better person. He’s a quality young man.”

THE FUTURE: Sims will be a senior this fall.