Blackford boys basketball leans on supporting cast

Sophomore star Amarian Leggett leads the way, but unsung heroes step up in regional run

Mar. 12, 2026 at 8:25am

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Blackford High School's boys basketball team has emerged as a force in Indiana this season, led by the explosive scoring of sophomore guard Amarian "Mari" Leggett. While Leggett's 26.4 points per game average has been the driving force, the team has shown it can win even when Leggett doesn't score 30 points, relying on a supporting cast of unsung heroes to contribute.

Why it matters

Blackford's success this season has put the small town of Hartford City on the map, generating excitement and pride in the community. The team's ability to win in different ways demonstrates their depth and resilience, which will be crucial as they make a push for a state championship.

The details

Leggett has been the focal point of Blackford's offense, but head coach Jerry Hoover has emphasized the importance of the team's supporting cast. Players like junior forward Brayden Rowe and senior guard Ethan Shumaker have stepped up with timely scoring, rebounding, and defense to complement Leggett's heroics.

  • Leggett is in his sophomore season, building on a strong freshman campaign.
  • Blackford is currently in the regional round of the Indiana high school basketball tournament.

The players

Amarian "Mari" Leggett

A sophomore guard for Blackford High School who is averaging 26.4 points per game this season, emerging as one of the brightest young stars in Indiana high school basketball.

Brayden Rowe

A junior forward for Blackford High School who has stepped up with timely scoring, rebounding, and defense to support the team's star player, Amarian Leggett.

Ethan Shumaker

A senior guard for Blackford High School who has contributed with scoring, defense, and leadership to help the team succeed beyond just their star player.

Jerry Hoover

The head coach of the Blackford High School boys basketball team, who has emphasized the importance of the team's supporting cast in their success this season.

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What they’re saying

“We have finally shown that we can win without Mari scoring 30 points.”

— Jerry Hoover, Head Coach

What’s next

Blackford will look to continue their regional tournament run, with the next game scheduled for Saturday, March 16th.

The takeaway

Blackford's success this season has been a testament to the team's depth and resilience, as they have proven they can win in different ways beyond just relying on their star player. This well-rounded approach will serve them well as they aim for a deep postseason run and a potential state championship.