From 2 Giants, Down To 1
From 2 Giants, down to 1. The Central Dauphin Rams basketball team saw an amazing year in 2020-2021. With their two headed giants controlling the pace of the game, the future was bright. But now their path has changed and uncertainty looms. Adjustments will be made, but the goal remains the same.
Donovan The Eldest Giant
With Age Comes Wisdom, And Expectations.
The Senior
Donovan Hill is a senior and poised to lead Central Dauphin back to the top and further. At 6’8 210 pounds with a 3.0 GPA, the senior leader has already committed to Niagara University. But like any good senior, he has unfinished business in high school.
He Earned His Place At The Table
Donovan helped his team end the regular season, winning 13 league games. They tied for most wins in school history. The Rams also claimed the Mid Penn Commonwealth Title.
They went on to the Mid Penn Championship, achieving a goal they set at the beginning of the season. The senior is coming off of a great season and grabbing some hardware as well.
Donovan was Mid Penn Commonwealth 2nd Team, and All Stars 2nd Team, just to name a few. After averaging 11 pts, 7 reb, Hill will be called upon to increase productivity to help win games. Donovan has been working all summer for this year, and we wish him luck.
Malachi The Young Giant
To Be Young And Fearless Is A Blessing.
Not Your Average Sophomore
Despite being young, he’s good and only getting better. Malachi Palmer is not only already a giant, but a monster in the making. The 6’5 195 pounds Sophomore helped lead Central Dauphin to their best season in eight years as a freshman. There are huge expectations coming into the 2021 season.
Everyone Takes Notice
Further more he was selected to the Mid Penn Commonwealth 1st team, and the Mid Penn Commonwealth 1st team All-Stars. His list goes on and on. The sophomore turned heads in every direction with colleges around the nation offering him a ride to their school.
From Georgetown University to the University of Oregon, the young guard made his mark early. But his abilities didn’t outshine his competitive nature. He fought for his recognition averaging 12 pts, 5 reb, 2 assist a game for the Rams.
The sky is the limit for this young man, and there’s a list of accolades waiting for him to claim. But we all know “the future is always unpredictable”. *Remember That
Damion Lee
Damion Lee: From High School Hoops to NBA Champion
High School Hustle
Damion Lee began his basketball journey at Calvert Hall College High School in Towson, Maryland. His impressive performance earned him All-Metro and All-Baltimore Catholic League honors. After graduation, Lee honed his skills at St. Thomas More prep in Connecticut. There, he led his team to a national prep championship and a stellar 30-7 record. Notably, Lee outshone future NBA lottery pick Andre Drummond, securing the MVP title for his team. (Findaballer Report)
Drexel Dragons: Where Damion Lee Soared
At Drexel University, Damion Lee quickly became a standout player. As a freshman, he averaged 12 points and 4.4 rebounds per game. His exceptional performance earned him the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) Rookie of the Year award. Lee’s sophomore year saw him lead Drexel in scoring, averaging 17.1 points per game. Despite setbacks due to injuries, Lee’s talent shone through. In his final year at Drexel, he ranked fourth nationally in scoring with 21.4 points per game.
Louisville Cardinals: A Stepping Stone to the NBA
Following his impactful career at Drexel, Damion Lee transferred to the University of Louisville for his graduate season in 2015-2016. This move proved crucial in elevating his profile for the NBA.
- Immediate Impact: Lee stepped into a significant role for the Cardinals, showcasing his scoring prowess and versatility. He quickly became a key offensive weapon for the team.
- Statistical Standout: In his single season with Louisville, Lee averaged 15.9 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. He demonstrated his ability to score in multiple ways, both driving to the basket and shooting from beyond the arc.
- Leadership and Experience: As a graduate transfer, Lee brought valuable experience and leadership to a talented Louisville squad. His maturity and poise were evident in crucial game situations.
- NBA Draft Buzz: While he ultimately went undrafted in the 2016 NBA Draft, Lee’s strong performance and consistent play at Louisville significantly increased his visibility among NBA scouts. His scoring ability and demonstrated college success positioned him as a viable prospect for professional basketball.
Damion Lee: A Professional Leap
After going undrafted in 2016, Damion Lee persevered in the G League. His breakthrough came in March 2018 when he signed with the Atlanta Hawks. Lee’s career took off when he joined the Golden State Warriors on a two-way contract. He proved his worth with impressive performances, including a career-high 23 points against the New Orleans Pelicans. Lee’s hard work paid off when he won an NBA championship with the Warriors in 2022.
Current Status: Damion Lee’s Phoenix Rise
In July 2022, Damion Lee signed with the Phoenix Suns, marking a new chapter in his career. He made an immediate impact, scoring a game-winning shot in his Suns debut. Lee continues to contribute valuable minutes off the bench for Phoenix. Despite facing a meniscus injury in the 2023-24 season, Lee’s resilience shines through. He’s expected to return to action, ready to prove his worth once again.
Follow Damion Lee’s journey on X and Instagram for the latest updates.
Malik Rose
Malik Rose: From Philly Prodigy to NBA Champion and Executive
High School Roots: Malik Rose’s Early Basketball Journey
Malik Rose’s basketball journey began at Overbrook High School in Philadelphia. He excelled in both basketball and baseball during his time there. Rose’s athletic prowess set the stage for his future success in college and beyond. (Findaballer Report)
College Stardom: Malik Rose Dominates at Drexel
At Drexel University, Malik Rose became a basketball legend. He led the Dragons to three consecutive conference championships and NCAA appearances from 1994 to 1996. Rose’s college career was nothing short of spectacular, earning him numerous accolades and records.
Record-Breaking Performances
Rose finished his college career with an impressive 2,024 points, ranking third in school history. Moreover, he remains Drexel’s all-time leader in rebounds with 1,504. These statistics underscore his dominance on the court.
Awards and Recognition
Rose’s talent didn’t go unnoticed. He was named conference tournament MVP for three straight seasons. Additionally, he earned the title of America East Player of the Year twice.
Professional Success: Malik Rose Shines in the NBA
Malik Rose’s professional career was marked by longevity and championship success. He spent 13 seasons in the NBA, showcasing his skills and versatility.
NBA Draft and Early Career
The Charlotte Hornets selected Rose in the second round of the 1996 NBA draft. However, it was with the San Antonio Spurs that he would make his mark.
Championship Glory
Rose played a crucial role in the San Antonio Spurs’ success. He contributed to two NBA Championship wins in 1999 and 2003. His tenacity and skill made him a fan favorite in San Antonio.
Post-Spurs Career
After eight seasons with the Spurs, Rose played for the New York Knicks and Oklahoma City Thunder. He retired in 2009, concluding a successful 13-year NBA career.
Current Status: Malik Rose’s Continued Impact on Basketball
Malik Rose has seamlessly transitioned from player to executive, continuing to shape the basketball world.
Executive Roles
Rose has held various positions in basketball operations since retiring. He currently serves as the Head of Basketball Operations for the NBA G League. This role allows him to influence the development of future NBA talent.
Community Involvement
Rose remains active in the San Antonio community through his charity work. He also owns a popular restaurant called “Malik’s Philly’s Phamous” in San Antonio.
Social Media Presence
To stay updated on Malik Rose’s current activities, follow him on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/officialmalikrose/ and X https://x.com/MalikRose
An Unpredictable Season
Life Can Change In A Second
No Guarantees
The future is unpredictable, and we meant it. The Rams were looking very strong coming into the season with their two headed giants leading the way. Unfortunately, one has left the building.
Packing His Bags
Malachi Palmer has taken his show on the road. The ESPN 21st best player in the country in his class is now attending Hillcrest Prep in Phoenix, Arizona. Coincidently he will be there with fellow Pennsylvania standout Chance Westry.
More so, it’s never easy to make such a big decision at such a young age. We respect Malachi and wish him the best of luck. We quote Malachi as saying.
Change Gone Come
Central Dauphin has what it takes to continue to open eyes in the Mid Penn Division. Donovan Hill will need some help, of course. This is the perfect time for someone waiting in the shadows to step up.
Who will help the Rams repeat and go a step further? Only time will tell, but we can’t wait to see what the season holds.
Check out what these two up-and-coming stars had to say about themselves in our “My Story” video. And subscribe to our YouTube page for more content.