A CLOSER LOOK The Fender family

ERIC FENDER
Three best basketball players you've faced? Poland senior Jamie Dunn, "and the one [LeBron James] we're gonna face now."
Who is your hero? "My dad. He's just a great man and a great coach. He's taught me everything I know and he's been there through the ups and downs. I love him for it."
Chad Fender's scouting report on Eric: "You can't leave him open or he'll hit it every time. He can stop anybody on defense and plays harder than anybody. He's tough to play."
Would you shave off three years of your life for a state title? "In a second. Just to have the feeling that you're the best team in the state of Ohio. That would be incredible."
CHAD
Three best basketball players you've faced? "Chubbs" (Poland senior Jamie Dunn), Ursuline senior Marc Palermo and Boardman senior Matt Marks.
Who are your heroes? "My parents. They've been there for everything I've done and supported me as much as possible. I know they're there we I need them."
Eric Fender's scouting report on Chad: "An excellent shooter. Can take it to the hole at any time and his ball handling for a freshman is unbelievable. A great defender when he wants to be. Sometimes it looks like he doesn't want to be. He wants to succeed as much as anyone I know and he's getting better and better."
Would you shave off three years of your life for a state title? "Most definitely."
-- Joe Scalzo