GALION — Cooper Kent just completed a brilliant basketball career at Galion High School.
Kent will get the chance to extend his career on the hardwood next season at West Liberty University by signing his letter of intent on Monday.
While other schools showed interest, West Liberty was the right spot for Kent.
“They were obviously the best choice,” Kent said. “Success-wise, they’ve been at the top of (Division II) for the past 15-20 years. I think I fit very well with what they’re trying to do.”
The Hilltoppers play in the Mountain East Conference and finished as regular season co-champions with the University of Charleston this past year, each with a 17-3 league record. WLU was 28-7 and advanced to the Atlantic Region semifinal in the DII postseason tournament.
First-year Galion coach Tyler Sanders was happy to have been able to coach Kent along with a strong senior class.
“I was very fortunate to come in with a bunch of seniors with a lot of experience,” Sanders said. “I think the biggest thing was just the style of play we played.
“I thought all of the boys — and Coop especially — did a good job adjusting and buying in on the defensive end. Coop became a really well-rounded basketball player. It was fun to be part of his senior year.”
Kent was fifth in the Mid-Ohio Athletic Conference in scoring at 17.5 points per game, in helping lead the Tigers to a 12-12 record, 6-8 in the rugged MOAC.
He was named first team All-MOAC, second team Division II All-Northwest District, and All-Ohio honorable mention.
Recognizing the adjustments that will be needed in going from high school to Division II basketball, Kent seems mentally prepared.
“I think the biggest thing I’ll have to work on is my physical build,” Kent said. “Once I get that, I’ll have a really good shot at fitting into any program, especially West Liberty.”
He also faces the prospect of adapting to a new coach and a new system. But it’s not something he hasn’t already experienced.
“They full court press the entire game, so that’s going to be a new kind of play style for me,” Kent said. “I’ve had three different high school coaches at Galion, so I don’t think it will be too hard of a change for me from a coaching standpoint.”
Kent plans to major in sports management and possibly minor in communications.
“I was waiting and waiting and I’m glad (WLU) came along, because Coop can really shoot the basketball and his work ethic is second to none,” Sanders said.
Kent can’t wait to get started with the Hilltoppers program.
“I’ve already met with Coach (Ben) Howlett and (assistant) Coach (Connor) Harr,” Kent said. “They’re really great guys. I think they have a special plan for me and the other guys coming in.”