ALBANY — The junior season for Bobby Chandler as a starter for the Albany Academy boys’ basketball team could be defined by moments of brilliance that did not always translate into sustained excellence. That has all changed for Chandler as a senior.
Departures by a pair of stars to prep schools from the 2021-22 squad opened up a chance for Chandler to display a game he honed during the spring and summer months. As the clear-cut leader of this season’s team, Chandler has grown is so many different facets for the Cadets.
The senior, who stands 6-foot-5 and plays both guard and forward, has made the most of his chance to showcase his skills following the departures of guards Keyshuan Tillery (New Hampton School) and Shamiere Green (St. Thomas More). Tillery was the Times Union’s Large School Athlete of the Year in 2022 and Green was a second team all-area selection.
“I am really proud of the progression he has made over the last year both from a skill-set standpoint, as he has added things to his game, but more importantly because he has become more of a leader,” Albany Academy coach Jim Driggs said. “He has asserted himself in ways that have been impactful for team success. He has also taken a great step forward academically as well. He is an A student.”
“He really stepped into that role,” Albany Academy senior point guard Gianni DiCerbo said. “He took this team and put it on his back to be that guy for us.”
“Last year, I was definitely less confident,” Chandler said. “I gained confidence over the summer when I was working on my game. I am ready this year.”
Albany Academy (14-6) returns to the court Saturday for the first time since Feb. 18 when the Cadets take on New York State Public High School Athletic Association champion Tappen Zee (26-2) in the Federation Tournament of Champions Class A semifinal at Guilderland High School. Game…
Read the full article here