Allegany's Chris Manherz voted area boys basketball Player of the Year

The 5-foot-8 senior overcame his size to average over 23 points per game and eclipse 1,000 career points

Apr. 18, 2026 at 10:20pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball player in motion, with sharp planes of navy blue and gold representing the Allegany High School team colors. The abstract style captures the dynamic energy and athleticism of the player.A cubist interpretation of Allegany's Chris Manherz, the area's boys basketball Player of the Year, capturing his relentless energy and skill on the court.Cumberland Today

Chris Manherz, a 5-foot-8 senior at Allegany High School, was voted the area boys basketball Player of the Year after leading his team to a region championship. Manherz averaged over 23 points per game and eclipsed 1,000 career points, while also contributing 4.6 assists per game, the best in the area. He was recognized for his efforts by being named the Western Maryland Athletic Conference Player of the Year as well.

Why it matters

Manherz's award is a testament to his skill and determination, as he overcame his small stature to become one of the top players in the region. His leadership and all-around game were crucial in Allegany's unexpected run to the region title, a feat the school had not accomplished since 2017.

The details

Manherz, who was also voted first-team All-WestMAC last year and All-City the past two seasons, finished his career with 1,036 points. He had five 30-point games this year, scored 29 three other times, and eclipsed 20 points in 16 games. Manherz's 2.39 3-pointers per game were fifth-best locally, and he ranked 13th in 3-point percentage at 30.4%. He made 99 of 136 foul shots for 72.3%, tied for the 12th-best mark in the area.

  • Manherz was voted area boys basketball Player of the Year in a meeting of the area's head coaches last week.
  • Allegany won the Class 1A West Region I championship on their home floor following a 57-46 victory against Mountain Ridge.

The players

Chris Manherz

A 5-foot-8 senior at Allegany High School who overcame his size to average over 23 points per game and eclipse 1,000 career points, leading his team to a region championship.

Brandon Reed

The head coach of the Allegany High School boys basketball team, who praised Manherz's competitiveness and defensive abilities as key factors in the team's success.

Blake Geatz

The head coach of the Allegany High School soccer team, who helped instill the fitness and defensive mindset that Manherz brought to the basketball court.

Sean Rhodes

A personal trainer who worked with the Allegany High School basketball team to ensure they were in shape to play the style of basketball the coaches wanted.

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What they’re saying

“First I want to thank God for putting me in this position. I'm really grateful for my coaches and the entire coaching staff for believing in me and pushing me all season.”

— Chris Manherz, Player of the Year

“It's very well deserved. For him to do what he was able to do in terms of being high up there with the leaders in the area in scoring, and then also leading the area in assists. It speaks to what type of player he is.”

— Brandon Reed, Allegany Head Coach

“He went out there every day and played like he was bigger than he is. He never shied away. He was so impressive on the defensive end this year for us, and that was a big reason for our success.”

— Brandon Reed, Allegany Head Coach

The takeaway

Manherz's Player of the Year award highlights the impact a determined and skilled player can have, even when facing physical disadvantages. His leadership, two-way play, and relentless effort were instrumental in Allegany's unexpected region championship run, demonstrating the power of heart and hustle over size and stature.