If there is one trait that stands out with the 6-5 slender wing from Vashon it’s that he will always leave it all on the floor. Kern is the junior forward known for his ability to spark his teammates and lead his team in energy and effort. The athletic wing plays with toughness, boundless energy and in-your-face defense that’s aided by his reach and active hands. His drive and effort have been instrumental at pushing his team to victory in several games this season, including recent wins over Booker T Washington (OK) and Whitney Young where Kern scored 20 points and 16 points respectively. 

The Vashon Wolverines are ranked at the top of the Missouri Class 4 State Rankings and favored to repeat as state champions even after being moved up from Class 3. Kern knows that this means that the Wolverines have a target on their chest when facing in-state rivals. Additionally, the Wolverines play a loaded national schedule. This means that the Wolverines must play with a no-days-off mentality. Kern is keenly aware of the value that his energetic play, second chance efforts and other intangibles bring to the winning effort of the Wolverines. When asked about his value to the team, Kern puts it simply, “I’m a great teammate, a floor leader and hard worker.”

Kern is currently averaging 13 points and 6 rebounds per game. The talented wing is a tenacious rebounder who is aided by great instincts and the ability to get off the floor quickly. Kern has the quickness and ball handling to get by defenders and attack downhill. Despite his slender build, Kern has good strength which allows him to finish strong through contact. His balance and body control also allow him to slice through help defenders and finish some tough shots at the rim, but he is just as likely to finish over the top of an unsuspecting defender. Among the areas that Nick is still working to improve is shooting consistency and continuing to lead. 

A testament of Nick’s concern for team was his response to my question about his team goals. The obvious response was, of course, “I want to get another ring.” But, most importantly, he proclaimed, “My goal is to get one for those (teammates) that don’t have one.”

Kern’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Interest in the talented wing has steadily grown, he currently holds offers from DePaul, Illinois State, Saint Louis University and Southeast Missouri State and is hearing from Missouri, Tulsa, Southern Illinois, Middle Tennessee State, Cincinnati and Georgetown among others. Look for this list to grow as he continues to provide energy and grit for the Vashon Wolverines as they enter the second stretch of the season.