Jake Karnish of Fleetwood is Wyomissing PT Player of the Week
Wyomissing Physical Therapy Player of the Week
No one around Fleetwood was surprised that it was Jake Karnish who hit the game-winning shot to the lift the Tigers over Brandywine Heights in the 57th annual Tiger Classic last week. The 6-1 junior guard leads the Tigers in scoring, rebounds and assists and has fueled their 6-0 start.
“He’s our team MVP, it’s that simple,” said Tigers assistant coach Justin Soumas. “He’s just our go-to guy and he stepped up in a big situation.”
Karnish’s buzzer-beater gave Fleetwood a 49-47 win over Brandywine Heights in the championship game and earned him tournament MVP honors.
It has also earned him Wyomissing Physical Therapy boys basketball Player of the Week.
Karnish scored 19 of his game-high 22 points in the second half against Brandywine and hit a big 3-pointer late in the game as the Tigers, who trailed through three quarters, rallied to remain unbeaten.
“He took the team on his back the second half of the championship game,” said Tigers coach Terry Sitler.
“The kid can jump out of the gym,” said Soumas. “He’s dunking as a junior; we’re not used to that (at Fleetwood). It’s kind of exciting. He’s an all-round player; he just has it.”
Fleetwood called timeout with 15 seconds left and the scored tied to set up a final play. It was designed for Karnish, and he got a good look driving to the basket, but the ball rolled off the front of the rim. He battled two Brandywine players, came up with the rebound, then shot from the left baseline, slightly behind the basket.
“It was nothing but net,” said Soumas. “It was such an amazing shot.”
Karnish scored 10 points in the 64-19 opening-round victory over Pequea Valley.
He is averaging 17.7 points and 11.5 rebounds. He’s shooting a team-best 70.3 percent from the foul line and leads the team with eight 3’s.
Karnish is the third Wyomissing Physical Therapy Player of the Week this season. Berks Conference coaches nominate their top player each week. At the end of the season a Player of the Year will be selected from the weekly award-winners and nominees.
Previously selected for Wyomissing Physical Therapy Player of the Week:
- Dec. 20: Matt Harley, Gov. Mifflin.
- Dec. 27: Colin Payne, Exeter
You can find the Berks boys basketball honor roll here.
