One of the area's best-kept secrets in boys basketball this season has been the stellar play of Hammond point guard Chris Baker.

The 5-foot-11 senior has done everything a coach can ask for from the point guard spot to lead the Golden Bears to a 16-3 mark. More importantly, he's done it with consistency.

The Bears' 67-62 win at No. 11 Atholton on Tuesday was a perfect example. Baker helped the Bears get out to a quick double-digit lead in the first quarter by getting everybody involved with his ability to penetrate and then find open teammates. When the Raiders, frontrunners in Howard County this season, made several expected pushes the rest of the way, Baker was always there to withstand the pressure, driving to the basket for a layup or a subsequent trip to the free-throw line.

In 19 games, Baker is averaging 20.1 points, reaching double digits in every game and scoring 20 or more nine times. He sets the tone with vocal leadership, plays pesky defense and shares the basketball.

"My teammates look to me as a leader and I don't mind having the ball in my hands, whether I score myself or dish. I know my teammates can score, too," said Baker, who is still undecided on a college.

With Atholton and Hammond separating themselves from the rest of the Howard County pack, it appears the two teams will meet again Feb. 24 for the county championship. Hammond coach Karl Freidheim is happy to have Baker on his side.

"He's a special player. He's stepping up with his leadership and that's what we need out of our seniors. Chris plays hard all the time and really wants the ball in the tough times," he said.

- Glenn Graham