Luke Kennard earns National Player of the Year

Franklin standout Luke Kennard on Friday was named National Player of the Year by Parade Magazine, capping a high school career filled with honors and rave reviews.

In addition to finishing as the state’s No. 2 all-time scorer with 2,764 points, the 6-foot-6 Duke-bound guard led Franklin to a four-year record of 86-11.

Ohio’s two-time Mr. Basketball award winner averaged 38.4 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists as a senior in helping the Wildcats go 26-2. He shot 59 percent from the field, 49 percent from 3-point range and 89 percent from the free-throw line. Five times he scored at least 50 points.

Part of the top-rated recruiting class in the country, Kennard kept busy this spring by participating in the McDonald’s All-American Game, Nike Hoop Summit and Jordan Brand Classic.

He is the third consecutive future Duke player to receive the Parade Magazine honor, following Jahlil Okafor and Semi Ojeleye.