The race for the Martin Dentistry Boys Basketball Athlete of the Week award is heating up, with six outstanding players from schools across the 209 area code nominated for their performances between February 9th and 14th. From record-breaking point totals to crucial championship-deciding wins, this week’s nominees represent the best of high school basketball in the region. Fans have until noon on Thursday, February 19th, to cast their votes and determine who will take home the crown.
This weekly spotlight, a tradition throughout the 2025-26 season, recognizes exceptional athletic achievement. The award focuses on boys’ basketball performances from schools in Stockton, Tracy, Mountain House, and Lodi, offering a platform to celebrate the dedication and skill of these young athletes. Nominations for next week’s ballot can be sent to [email protected], ensuring continued recognition of talent throughout the season.
Record-Breaking Performances and Championship Moments
Leading the list of nominees is Romello Bruhn of Weston Ranch, who recently achieved a remarkable milestone. On February 12th, during the SJAA semifinal against Bear Creek, Bruhn scored 24 points, surpassing the 3,000-point mark for his career and becoming just the 16th player in California boys basketball history to reach this achievement. The Stockton Record details his incredible journey, which included transferring from Woodland Christian on January 6th, where he had already accumulated 2,472 career points.
Bruhn continued his stellar week with another 21 points in a 77-53 win over Edison, securing the SJAA tournament title and pushing his career total to 3,028 points. His ascent has seen him surpass notable players like Lonzo Ball, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Jason Kidd, Jrue Holiday, DeMar DeRozan, and LiAngelo Ball.
Clutch Performances Define the Week
Chhandler Chhor of Mountain House demonstrated poise under pressure, leading his team to a potential championship. With two wins guaranteeing an outright VOL championship, Chhor delivered in key moments, starting with 12 points in a 56-45 victory over Manteca on February 11th. He then exploded for a career-high 21 points in a 72-43 win against Oakdale on February 13th, avenging an earlier loss and bringing the title within reach.
Jonas Currington of Lodi showcased his consistent impact, even when not the primary scoring option. He posted 20 points and 11 rebounds in a 64-56 loss to Kimball on February 11th, followed by 10 points and 10 rebounds in a 52-43 win over Kimball two days later, demonstrating his ability to contribute significantly regardless of shot volume.
Rising Stars and Senior Night Showcases
Cedric Johnson of Lodi Academy has been instrumental in the team’s successful 16-7 regular season and 11-3 mark in the Mountain Valley League, the best finish in program history. He erupted for a career-high 26 points and four steals in a 69-31 win over Delta Charter on February 10th, and followed it up with 20 points, seven rebounds, and four steals in a 50-47 win over Elliot Christian on February 12th.
Jagger Merolla of Lincoln celebrated a personal milestone, eclipsing 1,000 career points at the free-throw line. Following a recent loss to St. Mary’s on January 26th – Lincoln’s first defeat to the Rams since January 20, 2023 – the team responded with a dominant 69-25 win over St. Mary’s on February 13th, with Merolla contributing 15 points.
Maximillian Russell of Tracy delivered a memorable Senior Night performance, pouring in 39 points with nine rebounds and four assists in an 84-56 win over Merrill West on February 13th. He also scored 34 points and added 13 rebounds and four assists in a 64-56 win over Lodi two days prior, helping Tracy secure sole possession of third place in the TCAL for the first time since 2018-19. Russell has already surpassed 1,000 career points this season.
Voting is open until noon on Thursday, February 19th, offering fans the opportunity to recognize the outstanding achievements of these talented athletes. The Martin Dentistry Athlete of the Week award continues to highlight the dedication and skill within the 209-area high school basketball community.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only, and does not constitute professional sports analysis or endorsement of any particular athlete.
What will be the impact of these performances on the upcoming playoff brackets? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to spread the word about these incredible athletes!