THE WINNER: Cheick Diallo

THE BASICS

School: Our Savior New American School (Centereach, N.Y.)
Grade: Senior
Position: Center
Height: 6-foot-9
Weight: 225 pounds

Athletic achievement: He averaged 17.6 points, 10.5 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game this past season, leading the Pioneers to a 22-12 record. The state’s returning Gatorade Boys Basketball Player of the Year, Diallo has been selected to play in the Jordan Brand Classic and the McDonald’s All-American games, as well as the Nike Hoop Summit. Rated as the nation’s No. 7 recruit in the Class of 2015 by Rivals.com, he was also named to USA TODAY’s All-USA Preseason Boys Basketball Team.

Academic excellence: Diallo has maintained a B average.

Exemplary character: A devoted member of his church youth group, he has volunteered locally on behalf of a food pantry.

THE PRAISE

“Diallo is an outstanding basketball player who does a lot of things well,” said Neil Jenkins, head coach at Upper Room Christian School. “He scores, rebounds, blocks, defends. His ability to get up and down the floor is incredible, and he’s got a non-stop motor; you can’t tire him out.”

THE FUTURE: Diallo remains undecided upon a collegiate destination.