By Ryan Arena

L’OBSERVATEUR

After its latest dominating run through the Class C playoffs to a state title, Reserve Christian is once again well represented on the Louisiana Sports Writers Association Class C All-State team.

Eagles shooting guard Cedric Jenkins has been selected as the state’s Outstanding Player in Class C. Coach Timmy Byrd is the state’s coach of the year. And forward Chris Roussell has been named to the All-State second team.

“I felt like this team really showed how good it was during the last two weeks, when everyone was finally healthy,” said Byrd, who has now coached the Eagles to seven state championships in eight years, including five straight.

“These kids represented themselves and our school in a way that really makes me proud of them, and proud to be coaching this team,” he said.

Jenkins, a junior, averaged 20 points per game this season, leading the Eagles in scoring. He scored 25 points in the state semifinals against Atlanta, and 13 more against Athens in the state championship game.

Already known for his marksmanship behind the 3-point stripe, Jenkins evolved into a more well-rounded player when Byrd switched him to point guard to cover for the early season injury to starting point Kyle McClue.

“It became something of a blessing for him, because he became more than just a shooter and scorer,” Byrd said. “At times, he’d carry us and score 30. At others, he deferred and set up others. He really became a complete player.”

This is Jenkins’ third selection to the All-State team.

Roussell is one of only two Eagle seniors. The 6-3 guard averaged 14 points per game and provided toughness, smarts and a fine 3-point shot all season long.

“He really only played two seasons of high school ball,” Byrd said. “For him to be an All-State player after only two years speaks volumes.

“He’s our senior captain, and he set a great example for the others on our team. Seeing how hard he works at it, this is just a nice reward.”

Byrd notes that both Jenkins and Roussell are also standouts in the classroom.

Reserve finished the season with a 44-7 record.

“They’re both just class acts as individuals,” he said.