From high jumps to slam dunks, Cronin leads Valentine to state basketball tournament

VALENTINE, Neb. - From record-setting jumps to rim-rattling dunks, Valentine Senior Isaac Cronin knows how to entertain. When he’s not dunking a basketball or stealing bases, Cronin can be found clearing the bar in track and field. As a junior, he set a Nebraska Class C state meet record in the high jump, clearing 6 feet 10 inches.

“I’m a really competitive person, so I like competing against other people and other teams,” Cronin said.

Now the Valentine senior is helping lead the Badgers back to the state basketball tournament for the first time in 22 years.

“A huge part of it for me is the team,” Cronin said. “I’ve been playing with the same guys in every sport since I was third or fourth grade, maybe even younger. It’s great to go out with those guys and do what we love to do.”

After Valentine won its district championship, Cronin quickly became a local celebrity, with younger fans asking him to sign shirts, hats and basketballs.

“He’s going to the NBA. Just watch,” some of the kids said. “He’s the GOAT.”

Cronin said he appreciates the chance to set a positive example.

“I like that I can be a good role model for them,” Cronin said. “It can be a little overwhelming at times, but it’s great.”

Much of the excitement surrounding Cronin comes from his dunks, something he first learned to do in eighth grade.

“Ever since then it was like, ‘Dang, this is pretty cool. I’d like to get good at this,’” Cronin said. “It can change games. You set the tone. Dunk it hard, and it’s a rally starter.”

Valentine boys basketball head coach Randy Kluender said Cronin’s talent and energy make him a special player.

“What a player. What a dynamic player,” Kluender said. “He’s able to score the ball from the inside and outside. He’s just fun to be around.”

Cronin and his teammates are hoping to add to the school’s basketball history. The last time Valentine won a state championship was in 1923.

“Over 100 years ago, so we’d love to put a banner up beside it,” Kluender said.

But whether another banner goes up or not, Cronin said the season has already been meaningful in a sport that has taught him lessons far beyond the game.

“Showing up every day, getting better,” Cronin said. “It makes you a better person. It makes you a better teammate. It makes you a better friend.”