Enjoying an 18-3 record and fresh off a 14-game win streak, No. 13 Dulaney boys basketball has been on a season-long roll with senior center Drew Ranck smack in the middle of all the success.
The 6-foot-5 captain has been a double-double machine, averaging 11 points, 12 rebounds and two blocked shots per game. He brings a physical presence that sets the tone for the Lions.
Also a standout pitcher for the Dulaney baseball team, he’s committed to play that sport at UMBC. He has plenty of fun and hard work left as he closes out his high school career. The Lions reached next Tuesday’s Baltimore County championship game and have hopes of bringing home the program’s first state title. He’ll then move to the mound this spring. Ranck maintains a 3.8 GPA and plans to study finance at UMBC.
Editor’s note: Some questions and answers have been lightly edited for clarity.
What has been the key to this sustained success this season?
I think a lot of it has been our defense and how we’ve learned to play as a team, especially the last few games. It’s a good feeling. Especially now that everybody has come together and we’re playing as a team.
How is this team more special than any others you’ve been on?
I think we’re a lot closer group of guys this year, being able to play together and understand each other so well.
What will be the key to bringing home the program’s first state title?
Just playing hard every day, practicing hard every day and playing together and knowing our roles.
Today’s game is often considered position-less, but you’re like a prototype center dominating the post. What’s that like?
I’ve been taught that way since I was a little kid on how to play — staying physical down low, rebounding. It’s just how I was raised and taught to play the game.
This is your last go at playing basketball. How does that make you feel?
I’ve been playing basketball since I was like 5 or 6. I really haven’t been thinking about it too much, but it’s a little crazy to think this will be my last time playing.
Whether you’re bringing down a big rebound or striking out a batter, what does it feel like to dominate the moment?
It’s a good feeling. Kind of like a flow state where you don’t even feel it. You’re basically just playing and not even thinking.
How many pitches and how hard do you throw?
I throw four pitches — four seam, sinker, changeup and a slider — and I’ve been up to 89.
What’s the key to having success on the mound?
A lot of it is mental, it’s just pitch by pitch and not worrying about past pitches or the future. It’s just focusing on one pitch at a time.
You’re a captain on the basketball team. What makes a quality leader?
I’d definitely say your actions before your words and practicing what you preach. Hard work every day at practice, leading by example that way.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
I remember when I was playing baseball back in the day, my Dad used to tell me if I really wanted to play baseball I’d have to practice outside of just team practices and have to really want to do it and not just being forced to do it.
What was it about UMBC?
I liked the coaches and just the whole atmosphere. I got to know a couple of the guys playing with them at the Big 26 [Baseball Classic last summer]. That was cool. Going to UMBC is an opportunity to play with a bunch of guys from around Maryland and to just represent where I’m from is cool.
What has been your best sports memory at Dulaney so far?
Winning the region against Towson in baseball last year [an 8-1 win].
Did you pitch, and how did that feel?
I went six innings. It was great, especially since we lost to them twice in the regular season. We knew we were a better team and really came together, so it felt really good.
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