The Taylorville Tornadoes boys' basketball team held their banquet on Sunday afternoon, and Drake Howard was recognized as the Nicole Patrick Country Financial Player of the Year. Howard reached the 1,000-point plateau this season and is the ninth-leading scorer for Taylorville all time. He says this award means a lot to him.

Howard credited his mentors in the game, including former Taylorville basketball players Bryce Friedrich and Luke Markwell. 

Howard has dealt with several injuries throughout his time, including a torn labrum his junior year. He thanked all of those who have helped him along the way.

Congratulations to Drake Howard and to all the Nicole Patrick Country Financial Players of the Game, who received their certificates at the ceremony. Also, congratulations to Coach Ryan Brown and the Taylorville boys' basketball team on a great season.