All-State Boys Basketball

If you had the opportunity to watch the PIAA basketball playoffs, you know that there is a tremendous amount of talent in Pennsylvania. The Philadelphia area, District 12, produces several Division I players each year. Consequently, being recognized as an all-state player in our commonwealth is a great achievement. Three boys basketball players from Berks County received that honor this week.

Ruben Rodriguez of Reading was named first team all-state in Class 6A for the second consecutive season. The 6’1 junior led Berks County in scoring at nearly 20 points per game. He also averaged five assists, five rebounds, and three steals. Rodriguez guided the Red Knights to BCIAA and District 3-6A championships. The electric guard has scored 1,291 career points. He has accumulated 1,003 points over the past two seasons with the Red Knights. Rodriguez has earned the reputation as a clutch performer in big games.

Colin Payne of Exeter was named third team all-state in Class 5A. The 6’3 senior guard finished third in Berks County in scoring at 18 points per game. He knocked down 54 three-pointers this year. Payne helped the Eagles reach the state playoffs for the first time since 1999. They gave Chester a battle before falling 61-52 in the opening round. Payne is a three-sport athlete at Exeter. He was the quarterback of the football team and a starter on the baseball team. Payne threw for a single-season school record 2,363 yards as the Eagles captured their first District 3 title. He’s committed to Alvernia for basketball and football.

Hector Tiburcio of Antietam was named third team all-state in Class 2A for the second straight season. The 6’2 senior was a four-year starter for the Mounts. He ended his career with 1,426 points. Tiburcio led Antietam to the District 3-2A championship game in 2021 and 2022. He averaged 16.5 points this year and helped the Mounts win 20 games.