The brace on Avery Larson’s left knee is the only obvious sign of the damage the Antioch senior center suffered in that leg less than a year ago.
Larson’s play this season certainly doesn’t offer any hints.
“It’s amazing what Avery is doing,” Antioch coach Tim Borries said.
During the first quarter of the Sequoits’ fourth game last season, Larson landed awkwardly after she was fouled on a putback attempt.
“Even when I watch (a replay), it doesn’t look bad,” she said.
The injuries were extensive, however. She suffered a torn ACL, torn meniscus, a sprained LCL and a minor fracture of her tibia.
But the 6-foot-3 Larson, who wasn’t cleared to play again until two days before tryouts for this season, is healthy and determined to close out her career with good memories. She was averaging 12.5 points and 10.0 rebounds and had recorded 12 double-doubles for the Sequoits (10-15) through Wednesday.
She had 27 points and 13 rebounds in a 54-39 win against Lakes on Jan. 26, and she averaged 18.5 points and 14.0 rebounds in two losses to Grant.
“When her game is on — her post moves, controlling the boards and paint offensively and defensively, and hitting 3-pointers — it’s impressive,” Borries said.
Larson, who committed to play basketball at Truman State in November 2020, lost a key development period as she recovered from her injuries. She also missed the sport.
“I learned I really loved basketball,” she said. “You don’t realize you miss something until it’s gone. I couldn’t play for nine months. I wasn’t able to run for months after surgery.
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“But everything happens for a reason. I’m thankful it happened this year and that I wouldn’t be delayed for college. The injury made me mentally and physically tougher.”
Larson has played in relative obscurity during her career. The Sequoits have won just 41 games in the four-plus seasons since twin sisters Amy and Ashley Reiser graduated. The Reisers led Antioch to four regional titles and two sectional titles without a true inside threat like Larson.
“I remember watching those teams,” she said.
But Borries said Larson is one of the best players in his long coaching career.
“She’s like a fourth coach,” Borries said. “We talk a lot about what’s going on in games, what we could do different. I trust her judgment.
“I’m going to be excited when she gets to Truman State and we see where they will play her. She can shoot the 3-pointer, handle the ball and has great post moves. She will get bigger, faster and stronger. It will be great to see her when she’s a senior, to see what type of college player she will be. It will be exciting to watch her develop over the years.”
Larson can look at the example of Addie Budnik, among others. The 6-2 Richmond sophomore forward played on several Highland Park teams that struggled to win games and became an impact player for the Spiders as a freshman.
“I think I’ve been ready for college since my sophomore year,” Larson said.
Bobby Narang is a freelance reporter for the News-Sun.