Reading All-State guard and Rider commit Ruben Rodriguez

Ruben Rodriguez finished his career with 2,008 points, seventh-most in Berks County history.  The all-state guard from Reading was never focused on individual milestones.  "We play for each other. We don't really play for our personal accomplishments...it's just a blessing to be a part of it," said Rodriguez.  That attitude helped the Red Knights win BCIAA, District 3, and PIAA-6A championships this year.  Rodriguez was one of four senior starters.  "We were extremely tight. These are my brothers. Even when it's not basketball season, we're still with each other all day, every day," he remarked.  Reading has won three straight District 3 titles.  The (32-1) Red Knights outlasted Roman Catholic 63-56 in overtime for their third state crown in the last seven years.  They beat another Philadelphia Catholic League power, Archbishop Wood, in the 2021 state final.  "A lot of people like to praise that part of Pennsylvania, but we go to work down here too," stated Rodriguez.  The Rider commit was named the Berks County Player of the Year twice.  He led the county in scoring this season at 21.7 points per game.  A parade was held on 13th Street in Reading on Saturday to celebrate the state championship.  The guest speakers included State Senator Judy Schwank, State Representative Manny Guzman, and Reading Mayor Eddie Moran.  The Reading High School dance team and Marine Corps JROTC performed at the Geigle Complex.  After Rodriguez was done signing autographs, he gave his prediction for the NBA Finals to Paul Roberts of SV Sports.  The 6'2 guard is a big fan of LeBron James, but his favorite team is the 76ers.  Former Reading star Lonnie Walker is on the Lakers with LeBron.  Roberts had fun asking Rodriguez about playing Walker 1-on-1.  They're two players that Reading fans will never forget.

            

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