Lincoln-Way Central’s Drew Woodburn has an unusual feel for the pulse of the action.
The senior point guard, who also was a two-year starter at quarterback for the Knights in football, relies on a decisive mind that quickly deciphers the rhythm and flow of the sports he plays.
“With basketball, you learn how to react on the fly,” Woodburn said. “I think playing quarterback prepares me for the moment. One thing you learn is that no situation is ever too big.
“Especially given how big and rowdy some of the crowds I have played in front of.”
Woodburn kept Lincoln-Way Central in front of district rival Lincoln-Way West, producing seven points, four assists and two steals Tuesday night in a 55-45 SouthWest Suburban Conference win.
Senior guard Alex Panos ended up scoring 15 of his 20 points in the second half for the visiting Knights (15-6, 7-3), who swept the season series and won the fourth straight game of the rivalry.
Senior guard Nolan Morrill added 11 points for Lincoln-Way Central. Junior forward Nick Brzezniak, a transfer from Lincoln-Way West, came through with nine points and six rebounds.
Eden Kubilius tallied 11 points and six rebounds for the Warriors (12-12, 4-7). Ethan Swanson scored nine points. Drake Been and Ryan Hegji added seven points apiece.
Woodburn, meanwhile, looked for his offense early, drilling a 3-pointer and converting a baseline drive as Lincoln-Way Central built a lead that eventually stretched to 18 points.
“The coaches were talking with me about being more aggressive and looking for my shot more at the start of games,” he said. “I’m a team-first guy and do whatever I can to win.
“Handle the ball, facilitate for others or score, if necessary. I can also play defense.”
His game is built on poise, anticipation and natural athleticism.
“I’m not the most fundamental player at times,” Woodburn said. “The nature of football or basketball helps me find a way.”
His teammates found the way from there Tuesday night. After his early scoring burst, Woodburn ceded control to Panos and Morrill.
”I’ve played with Drew my whole life and he’s a natural leader,” Morrill said. “He’s one of the hardest working kids I know. He isn’t afraid to communicate and hold everyone accountable.”
Toggling between two sports and being asked to command the attack requires skill, composure and adaptability. Nobody appreciates that more than his father, Dave.
“Balancing the two isn’t easy, but Drew thrives on it,” said Dave, who is Lincoln-Way Central’s head football coach. “Playing quarterback has taught him toughness, resilience and how to lead under pressure.
“That all shows up on the court.”
His high school football career closed on a tough note as St. Rita made a field goal as time expired in a Class 7A second-round playoff game. As a junior, Drew guided the Knights to the state semifinals.
“Nobody was happy with how the Rita game ended,” he said. “I love to compete. I never dwell on a season. Basketball helped me flip the page and move on. It’s the next season, the next mentality.
“Football is my main sport, but I take basketball very seriously. I just work and practice hard.”
Drew’s younger brother, Jake, is a freshman football and basketball player for the Knights. Their younger brother, Luke, is an athlete in middle school.
Mulling all of his recruiting opens, Woodburn has received the most interest of playing quarterback in college from Illinois Wesleyan. He remains undecided on his future.
“There’s a time and place for everything,” Woodburn said. “Leadership and competitive nature help me on the court. These four years playing football and basketball at Central have flown by.
“Right now, I just want to soak in everything and live in the moment.”
Patrick Z. McGavin is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
