Topercer Returns to New Hampton after Big Summer
If this summer was any indication, Michael Topercer’s third season at New Hampton is likely to be his best. The skilled combo-guard saw his game go to new levels this summer as he shined during the July live period running with the Arizona Metro Elite club.
He was never more impressive than in Las Vegas where he averaged over 20 points per game at the Reebok Summer Championships. That performance earned him some well deserved national recognition as he was named a top 110 performer by Hoop Scoop.
When Topercer returns to New Hampton next week, it will be his third and final season at the NEPSAC school. If everything holds to form it will also be his third consecutive season in the team’s starting line-up, a rare feat for any player considering the amount of talent in Class A.
But Topercer will have even more responsibility this year than he has in previous years. He will still be called upon to put points on the board using his skills off the bounce, behind the three-point line, and with his passing ability; but he will also serve as this year’s captain, meaning head coach Pete Hutchins will rely on his most experienced player to set the tone for his talented list of newcomers.
Michael isn’t the first Topercer to play a significant role at New Hampton. In fact, it is becoming somewhat of a family tradition. Older brother T.J. was a key contributor for the 2005-2006 team before heading to Navy, where he is about to begin his junior season.
Navy was one of several schools that recruited Michael last year. In fact, Navy and Air Force both expressed significant interest while St. Anselm’s also extended a full scholarship offer. Nevertheless, Topercer opted to play another summer on the AAU circuit and return to NHS for a post-graduate season in order to improve his already impressive 3.2 grade point average.
That decision now looks to be a good one as his outstanding summer has generated more interest from the likes of Montana State, New Hampshire, and American. With all signs pointing toward a terrific post-graduate season, that list is bound to get much bigger before it gets any smaller.
Michael Topercer