CIAC Standout Seniors
As the high school basketball season hits its stretch run in Connecticut, seniors all over the state are looking to finish off their careers on top. In this article, we will mention some players who aren’t just putting up numbers, they’re impacting winning, taking on leadership roles, and raising their level when it matters most.
Sam Clachko, Staples: Clachko, a Connecticut College commit, has helped lead Staples to an undefeated 11–0 start while establishing himself as a reliable three-level scorer. He finishes around the rim with a variety of touch finishes and uses an effective handle to maneuver through defenses. Clachko also shows strong feel as a passer, willing and able to thread the needle when defenses collapse.
Josiah Sims, Newington: Sims has helped guide Newington to an undefeated 7–0 start while consistently producing with double-double potential at 6’4. A 1,000-point scorer, he thrives as a physical wing who finishes through contact and overpowers defenders in the paint. Sims also stands out as an exceptional passer, showing strong vision and unselfishness that elevates those around him.
Noah Dolinsky, Valley Regional: Dolinsky established himself as one of the elite shooters in the CIAC last season, finishing second in the entire state in made three-pointers. He’s a knockdown threat from deep whether spotting up or pulling up off the dribble, needing only a sliver of daylight to convert. Dolinsky is also effective in transition, where his ability to finish adds another layer to his offensive impact.
Chris Piercey, North Branford: Piercey is a reliable perimeter scorer with a quick release who can heat up as both a spot-up shooter and a creator off the bounce. His value extends to the defensive end, where he consistently generates deflections and steals through anticipation and active hands. Piercey’s two-way production makes him a steady presence in competitive games.
Omari Clayton, North Haven: Clayton has been a key contributor for an undefeated North Haven squad off to a 15–0 start. He brings advanced footwork in the post, using spin moves and strength to finish through contact. An exceptional athlete, Clayton also impacts games on the offensive glass, doing much of his damage around the rim.
Malachi Hendrix, Platt: Hendrix has helped Platt to an 8–2 record behind his ability to score at all three levels. He’s effective driving gaps, knocking down mid-range pull-ups, and spacing the floor as a knockdown spot-up shooter with a fluid release. Hendrix plays with poise, never rushed, and finishes comfortably over extended defenders.
Abdou Toure, Notre Dame (West Haven): Toure, an Arkansas commit, has powered Notre Dame–West Haven to an 11–3 record with his elite athleticism. Widely regarded as the top high-flyer in the state, he took Hoop Hall by storm with a thunderous poster dunk that turned heads nationally. Toure is a constant lob threat and becomes nearly impossible to stop once he gets downhill off the dribble.
Aaron Johnson Jr, West Haven: Johnson Jr. has been instrumental in West Haven’s 13–1 start, providing confident scoring across all three levels. An explosive athlete, he fills the stat sheet defensively with blocks and strong contests. In transition, Johnson Jr. is a nightmare matchup, finishing plays above the rim as a dynamic lob threat.
Abdou Toure
Josiah Sims
Noah Dolinsky
Aaron Johnson Jr