A go-to player in big-game moments - Daily Republic
The buzz from Hanson's state boys basketball championship -- the school's first since 1986 -- is still in the air around town and Nichols feels fortunate he was able to be a part of the dream come true run. "We only won by a total of six points in three games, and it was a storybook ending that couldn't have ended any better for us. ". For his excellence on the court and his role in helping Hanson claim the Class B state title, Nichols has been named... Players are given five points for a first-place vote, four for second, three for third, two for fourth and one for fifth. "This year he stepped so big in all aspects of his game," Oltmanns said, adding Nichols went from averaging five rebounds per game in his junior season to 12 rebounds per game this season. "It was very frustrating, and I was in foul trouble all game," said Nichols, who finished the championship game with three points and 13 rebounds. "My first points came on an and-one that really got me fired up, but when I fouled out, I went to the bench and cheered on my teammates. The 6-foot senior guard led the Beavers with 19 points in Hanson's 47-44 overtime win over Langford Area in the championship game. He averaged 19. 3 points, 5. 7 rebounds and 2. 2 assists per game this season. Source: www.mitchellrepublic.com
