Each year since 2006, MaxPreps has recognized outstanding performers in prep basketball. America's source for high school sports continues the tradition to close out the 2023-24 season by naming the top player in each state. Selections are based on team success and individual excellence in addition to local and state accolades.
Tommy Ahneman of
Sheyenne (West Fargo) is the 2023-24 North Dakota MaxPreps Player of the Year. The 6-foot-10 junior center led the Mustangs to a 21-6 record and Class AA state championship.
For the season, Ahneman averaged 20.3 points, 13.3 rebounds and 2.2 blocked shots per contest.
Ahneman tallied 28 points, 17 rebounds and two blocks in a 78-62 victory over Fargo North (Fargo) in the state title game en route to tournament most valuable player honors
Also a force on the gridiron, Ahneman played defensive tackle and offensive tackle on the Sheyenne football team that finished 8-3 and advanced to the state semifinals last fall.
Ahneman received his first Division I scholarship offer in December from the University of Portland and is also receiving FBS interest for football.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team, which will be released April 10. Past selections include 2024 NBA All-Stars Bam Adebayo (2016), Paolo Banchero (2020), Scottie Barnes (2020), Devin Booker (2014), Jaylen Brown (2015), Jalen Brunson (2015), Anthony Davis (2011), Kevin Durant (2006), Anthony Edwards (2019), Tyrese Maxey (2019), Julius Randle (2013), Jayson Tatum (2016), Karl-Anthony Towns (2014) and Trae Young (2017).
Past North Dakota MaxPreps Players of the Year2019-20 – Boden Skunberg, Jamestown
2020-21 – Joe Hurlburt, Enderlin
2021-22 – Joe Hurlburt, Enderlin
2022-23 – Darik Dissette, Minot
