Ryder Haynes, a senior basketball player at South Windsor High School is estimated to have a major breakout this year. The 6’4 machine has had an excellent start to the season.
His dominant style of play stands out in the CCC, as he has many tools on offense such as a strong shooting ability and a profound finish at the rim.
Haynes is also an elite defender, serving as the vocal anchor of the defense while consistently recording one to two blocks per game.
In 7 games, Haynes has averaged 19.5 points with a career high of 29 points against Rocky Hill. Haynes doesn’t just contribute with points, as he recorded another career high of 16 rebounds.
“I like to contribute in many ways on the court: scoring, being a rim defender, a shot maker, and most importantly a leader,” Haynes told The Prowl.
As a four year member of the team, Ryder Haynes brings extreme leadership and experience to the table.
The leadership has been evident this year, as Ryder Haynes earned one of the captain roles.
Apart from playing basketball, Haynes competed this past fall with the South Windsor High School football team. Playing football has allowed Haynes to improve physically and technically on his ability that would eventually swing to his play-style as a basketball player.
“Football helped me build my strength and footwork, and I find conditioning much easier now as a basketball player,” Ryder said.
From the beginning of the season, Haynes has proved himself as one of the most dominant players in the CCC, and looks forward to maintaining that name with consistency and reliability.
“There’s not a lot of people in the state that can stop him,” senior teammate Dalton Harrison said. “Playing with him just makes the game feel simple, cause you know if needed he’s there and he’s going to get the bucket.”
Looking to the future, Haynes hopes to pursue a basketball career in college, in an effort to prove himself at the next step.
Haynes’ mentality is team first, and would rather record team wins then personal stats.
Haynes shared his thoughts and feelings for the rest of the season.
“I’m excited to play the rest of the season,” Haynes said. “We have some good games coming up that could help us get into the playoffs.”
The Bobcats are looking to make the playoffs for the first time in two years. After a strong start, the Cats’ look to maintain their momentum.
