AMONG the Aussies producing solid campaigns at NCAAM level was Keli Leaupepe, who continues to shine for the Loyola Marymount Lions in a big way.

He has emerged as a fan favourite during his time with the team, and took things to the next level during the 2022/23 season. It was a career-best season during his senior season with the team, although it will not be his last outing with the side.

Leaupepe joined the team in 2019, and showed a strong foundation in the frontcourt. His numbers improved the following year, before taking a slight step backwards in his junior season. During his final outing with the Lions, Leaupepe looked at his most confident and took on the biggest role he had seen before.

Hitting the court for a whopping 32.1 minutes per game, the forward had truly cemented his place in the team. As a result of this increased opportunity, the Melbourne native delivered the best output of his collegiate career.

Leaupepe delivered a career-high 13.3 points per game, which is 2.8 more than his previous best. He received more touches than previous years and rewarded the team’s improved faith in his game with some strong offensive outings.

He shot 44.6 per cent from the field, and although he struggled from the field during some games, he was a reliable source of offence more often than not.

From behind the arc, Leaupepe looked as good as ever, with his jumpshot looking steadied and smooth. He nailed 43.6 per cent of his long range shots, adding another bow to his game and making himself a tougher matchup.

The forward showed his scoring capabilities with a number of 20-plus point performances, highlighted by 29 against the Morgan State Bears, thanks to his relentless attack in the paint which resulted in shooting 15/18 from the free throw line.

The 22-year-old also had some big rebounding games, particularly towards the end of the fixture. He recorded double-digits in this column twice in the final five games of the season, using his body to get ideal position despite lacking a bit of height in comparison to a prototype power forward.

At six-foot-six, he is a bit undersized for a player at his position, often facing a taller opponent. However, at 240lbs, Leaupepe has enough strength to compete against the big men, and it came in handy on a number of occasions.

Leaupepe was as solid as ever in his senior season at collegiate level, although he will return for one more campaign next year. The forward will be using his extra season of eligibility which was introduced due to the impact of the COVID pandemic. He will enter his final year at the peak of his powers, and should take his game even higher.