Highland Park senior David Isaacson is running the show for the first time.
A third-year starter, the 6-foot-1 Isaacson had other roles in previous seasons. But point guard Simon Moschin’s graduation and the emergence of high-scoring sophomore guard Gray Kanter prompted changes.
“It has been a full-time adjustment,” Isaacson said. “I’ve not played point guard for a while. Simon was our point guard. I’ve had to quickly learn how to handle the pressure.”
Highland Park coach Ross Deutsch said Isaacson is doing just fine.
“David solves problems before they become problems,” Deutsch said.
Highland Park senior guard Evan Mintzer, who said he has been playing basketball with Isaacson since they were 5 years old, agreed.
“David is nonstop talking on the court and is always making sure our guys are in the right spots, both offensively and defensively,” Mintzer said.
Kanter, who is averaging 25.0 points per game, also gives Isaacson credit for showing him the ropes at the varsity level.
“First off, David is one of the best leaders I’ve ever played with,” Kanter said. “He is constantly looking to assist and help people who have questions or may be doing something wrong. He is a loud voice at all times, whether on the court, the bench, at practice or even in film study. David is an amazing mentor.”
Isaacson can put up points too. He scored 13 during a win over Leyden on Nov. 25 and is averaging 7.0 points, 5.0 and 3.0 assists for the Giants (1-3).
“Last year, his role wasn’t to score, but he led us in deflections and was the head of our defense and set the tone for us,” Deutsch said. “This year, he’s been very consistent in all aspects for us.”
Isaacson, who has a twin sister, prepared for this opportunity during the offseason. Instead of playing AAU basketball again, he trained with several teammates.
“I played AAU as a freshman and sophomore, but I dialed back,” Isaacson said. “I thought AAU was a lot more about games. I thought instead of traveling to games that I could work on my body and my skills more on my own, be in the gym and with the guys. We really used that time to get in the gym together and build chemistry.”
Mintzer sees that commitment on a daily basis.
“David’s always been the most vocal, confident and hardworking guy I’ve played with,” Mintzer said. “He’s always trying to work on his craft whenever he has the time and is the first guy in the gym and last to leave.
“His work ethic translates to the basketball court because he’s able to knock down crucial shots for us and make clutch plays.”
Isaacson also took up running in his free time. Getting in better shape wasn’t the only benefit.
“I started running as something to clear my mind,” he said. “I would run outside twice a week for 5 miles at a time. It taught me mental focus and learning to push my body, to see if I can push through and get the last mile done. It shows on the court, helping me push through things.”
Bobby Narang is a freelance reporter.
