Photo by Jamar Crable
By Angela Brunk
Hutchinson High School senior Jalen Crable is entering his final basketball season with big goals and an even bigger sense of purpose. The versatile small forward/power forward has his sights set on helping the Salthawks make a deep postseason run while leaving his mark as a leader on and off the court.
Crable’s team goals for the season are clear. “I would love to finish off my senior year with a league championship,” he said. “I also want to have the opportunity to make it to the state tournament and compete for a state title. I’ve never made it to state in my high school career, so that’s something I absolutely want to achieve,” Crable shared. Individually, Crable aims to shoot over 40% from the field and to be “an all-around leader who my team can depend on nightly.”
One matchup Crable is particularly excited for is against team rival Derby. “We split games with them last year and upset them when they were undefeated and ranked number one in the state,” he said. “The atmosphere is always crazy and intense. It makes for a fun rivalry.”
This season comes with new challenges, including the loss of the team’s senior starting point guard to injury. “We’re all going to have to step up and do a little extra each game to make up for not having him,” Crable said.
Over the offseason, Crable sharpened his skills by training with his AAU team, coached by his dad. Crable also worked closely with Coach Bryan Miller to improve his speed, strength, and defensive presence.
Looking ahead, Crable has received interest and workout opportunities at the NAIA level and has shown interest in pursuing a business degree in college.
