South Platte's Ethan Reichman to play college basketball in Nebraska

BIG SPRINGS, NE — A star basketball player from South Platte is staying in Nebraska to further his basketball career.

"I kind of just fell in love with the school and the coaches and everything about it," South Platte senior Ethan Reichman said.

The Blue Knight’s Reichman recently committed to Doane College for basketball. South Platte’s record holder for career scoring, he’s averaging nearly 16 points-per-game his senior year. He credits his family for much of his success.

"My mom and dad, they drove me all around the state going to camps all Summer, playing AAU basketball, they have done so much for me," Reichman said. 

"My grandpa. He has coached me since I can remember. He's helped me improve my game tremendously."

Reichman's grandpa, Tom Weber, was a long time high school basketball coach at Lodgepole and Creek Valley in western Nebraska. He is now an assistant girl's basketball coach at South Platte where Weber's daughter — Reichman's aunt — Andie Cheleen is the head coach. 

Reichman has been a multi-sport athlete most of his life. Basketball was always his number one choice though.

"I've always had a little bit more of a love for basketball," Reichman said. "I don't know what it was about it, but I just did. Once I got into high school I thought maybe football, but then I got an interest in basketball and I just fell in love with it even more." 

Education also playing an important role. Reichman plans to study elementary education deciding on the path after working with the district’s first graders.

As well as helping teach them, he’s hoped he’s inspired them as well.

"I hope I left a legacy of someone who has worked hard, who's earned everything they've gotten and who is going to continue to keep his head down and keep working until the job is done."