— By Taylor Kennedy
WHEELING, W.Va. — With his senior season winding down, Wheeling Central guard Ryan Reasbeck continues to turn ahead.
Reasbeck continues to lead the Maroon Knights with an average of 22 points and eight rebounds. He credits his success to his teammates and how helpful they have been.
“They know when to look for me when I am open, and they help me get open,” Reasbeck said. “It has been hard times since I have been face guarded. I’m the guy setting screens and running the plays, which is helping. We do not have a selfish player on the team. If someone is open, they will pass them the ball, regardless of who it is. I would do the same for my teammates.”
Reasbeck’s offensive numbers turn heads consistently, but it’s his play on the other end that has most pleased the Central veteran.
“I know my offensive game is there, but I think I have gotten better at defense and rebounding the ball,” Reasbeck noted. “Being more aware has helped me defensively.”
Reasbeck has helped the Maroon Knights to a strong 11-1 record, including wins over defending Class AA champion Williamstown, Winfield, Notre Dame and North Marion.
“We are doing a great job of sharing the ball and being together,” said the senior. “We are always looking for an open guy. We have played a tough schedule, and that is helping our experience, especially with the younger guys.”
Reasbeck poured in 25 points over the weekend in Central’s 85-64 victory over the Huskies. Two weeks earlier, he had 28 of his team’s 44 points in a two-point win at Notre Dame, while breaking a late tie with his game-winning free throws.
Reasbeck’s only offer to this point comes from nearby Wheeling University. He appreciates the support head coach Chris Richardson and his staff have provided.
“He checks in, and he is a great guy,” Reasbeck said. “I have grown up there. I have been to the Alma Grace McDonough Center a lot. I used to go to the auxiliary gym and workout with my dad when I was nine and ten. I am more than familiar with the campus. He is a great coach.”
Regardless of where he ends up, Reasbeck is hopeful to play at the next level and be able to make an impact.
”I think where I fit the most and can make an impact on that team,” Reasbeck said of what will factor into his decision. “I do not think a lot about it since I am in the midst of my season. I want to focus on winning. I have always told myself that if I can do all the things I can and control what I can control, then all that stuff will fall into fruition.”
Reasbeck credited those around him for putting him in the best position to succeed.
“I have a great supporting cast around me,” Reasbeck noted. “I am blessed to have people that care for me and want to see me succeed. I am lucky in that aspect. Time does play into effect. It can be an overwhelming process, but you do not want it to consume you in your daily life.”
Maroon Knights’ head coach Mel Stephens has produced numerous college players, including more recently the likes of WVU guard Chase Harler and Wheeling’s Brent Price. Reasbeck appreciates all the work Stephens has done to help him achieve his childhood dream.
“He has been a great coach for me throughout my four years being there,” Stephens said. “He is a highly-recognized coach in West Virginia.”