De Pere star Johnny Kinziger has achieved a feat of extraordinary distinction, earning the title of Wisconsin’s co-Mr. Basketball for 2021. This honor comes as a result of a stellar season from the 6-foot-5 guard, who averaged 20.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game in leading his Redbirds to an 18-5 record and a berth in the WIAA Division 2 state semifinals.
Kinziger’s impressive performance on the court has been recognized by the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA), which selected him as one of two co-winners of the Mr. Basketball award. He shares the honor with Germantown point guard Tyler Herro, who was named Wisconsin’s Mr. Basketball by the Associated Press earlier this month.
The award is presented to the top senior boys basketball player in the state and is based on a player’s individual performance, the success of his team, academic achievement, and character. Kinziger was chosen for his ability to make an impact on both ends of the court. On offense, he averaged 20 points per game and shot 34 percent from 3-point range. He was also a key defender, averaging 1.8 steals and 1.2 blocks per game.
Off the court, Kinziger was an exemplary student, maintaining a 3.47 grade-point average while taking a full slate of honors courses. He was also active in his community, volunteering at a local food pantry and helping with a summer basketball camp.
Kinziger’s selection as co-Mr. Basketball is a testament to his hard work and dedication, not only on the court, but in the classroom and in his community. He is now one of two Wisconsin players to receive the prestigious award in the same year, a feat that is all the more impressive considering the depth and talent of the state’s basketball talent.