Height is an advantage in the game of basketball but no more important than quickness. This is true at every level, especially in high school, where big men are usually in the developmental stage.

That size vs, quickness comparison was no more in evidence than it was Monday night at the Class D state championship game. Central Aroostook's Manny Martinez, at 5-foot-6, took control of the game from the outset, hitting three 3s in the first quarter. At the other end of the floor, Richmond couldn't get the ball to 6-10 Marc Zaharchuk.
In the end, Martinez floated a shot over Zaharchuk for the game-winning shot. The little guy was the MVP without a doubt.
Looking at the other state title game, last Friday night, it was another little guy, Ryan Martin, who came up big. Just 5-8, Martin scored a game-high 26 points to lead Maranacook to the Class B state title over Cape Elizabeth. If you haven't seen either one of these kids play, you might be surprised, but both have done it all season.
Add a third player to your under 5-8 team in Dirigo's Wes Gagnon, who set up the game-winning shot over Boothbay in the Class C tournament with a drive and dish to the corner. Like the other two, the 5-7 Gagnon has been a key contributor all season.