Today, we highlight Men's Basketball star Aaron "Ace" Lassiter, an offensive standout who is hoping to lead the Runners to a second straight NJCAA Region 19 playoff berth.

Year: Sophomore

Positions: Guard-Forward

Height/Weight: 6-1, 160 pounds.

High School: Lenape, Class of 2024; previously played at Medford Tech.

Major: Psychology.

Favorite Athletes: Ace is a fan of NBA stars Kyrie Irving and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Favorite Activities: Ace's life revolves completely around basketball. He began playing in travel leagues when he was 8 years old and hasn't let up since.

About Ace Lassiter: Ace played two seasons at Medford Tech before transferring to Lenape his senior year. He helped the Indians to a 28-4 campaign, including a South Jersey Group 4 championship in March 2024 over Eastern. His team won a state semifinal game before falling to Elizabeth in the Group 4 state title game.

"I got to play with some high-level players at Lenape -- and they really helped me elevate my game a lot," said Lassiter. "We had a consistent winning atmosphere and we never lost at home. It was a lot of fun."

Since coming to RCSJ, Ace led the Runners in scoring his freshman seasons, coring 345 points and averaging 12.8 points per game. 

Ace Lassiter on his transition to college basketball: "It's been a tough battle the past two years, but my teammates are starting to buy into the program," said Ace. "If we can overcome a few minor mistakes, we can go on a hot streak and make it to the playoffs.'

Coach John Byrd on Ace Lassiter: "Ace has always been an offensive leader for us, but he has taken a big leap this year with his acceptance of a leadership role," said Byrd. "He's shown plenty of positive energy both in practice and right into our games -- and that's what we've needed this season."