Taylen Kinney, a junior point guard at Newport High School, has had an eventful summer filled with basketball adventures. From traveling to Italy for the Adidas Eurocamp to participating in the USA Basketball under-17 national team tryouts in Colorado Springs, Kinney has been showcasing his skills on a national and international stage. His journey culminates with an appearance in the prestigious Under Armour Next Elite 24 boys basketball game in Brooklyn, N.Y. This game, which features the nation’s top 24 players along with six elite players from Europe and one from Mexico, is a significant opportunity for Kinney to further establish himself as a top talent in high school basketball.
Throughout the summer, Kinney has garnered attention from college coaches and received scholarship offers from top programs such as Kansas, Michigan, LSU, and Oregon, among others. His impressive performance on the court, averaging 17.5 points and four rebounds per game for Newport High School last season, has solidified his status as a sought-after recruit. Despite facing a setback with a strained hamstring muscle during the region final and state tournament games, Kinney has bounced back and continued to impress scouts and coaches with his skills and determination.
In addition to Kinney’s basketball journey, the article also highlights the resignation of Jeremy Baioni, the successful coach of the Highlands baseball program. Baioni led the Bluebirds to four consecutive 9th Region championships and two state runner-up trophies during his 15-year tenure. His impact on the program and the success he achieved with his teams have left a lasting legacy in the Highlands baseball community. Baioni’s resignation marks the end of an era for the program, but his contributions will be remembered for years to come.
The article also features the story of Travis Smith, a Walton-Verona graduate who recently signed a lucrative contract with the Milwaukee Brewers after being selected in the 15th round of the MLB draft. Smith’s journey to professional baseball was not without challenges, as he overcame heart surgery and Tommy John surgery to pursue his dream of playing at the highest level. His resilience and determination have paid off, as he now embarks on a new chapter in his baseball career with the Brewers organization.
Overall, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the summer experiences of Taylen Kinney, Jeremy Baioni, and Travis Smith, highlighting their achievements and contributions to their respective sports. It showcases the dedication and talent of these individuals and serves as a testament to the hard work and commitment required to succeed in the competitive world of high school and collegiate athletics.