READY TO REIGN: No. 5 Hitchcock on a mission to make it three straight in Class 3A

There’s more to being a difference-maker than what shows up in the stat sheet. Ikenna Nwawueze has learned that much during his time at Alief Taylor, where his growth as a defensive standout has gone hand in hand with a deeper understanding of his teammates, his place and what the Lions can accomplish together.

The senior edge rusher isn’t defined by one responsibility. He can win with his hands and his get-off, but he also knows when to listen, when to communicate and when simply being someone his teammates can lean on matters just as much.