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Burlington's Ethan O'Brien Named Vermont Varsity Insider Athlete of the Week

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 2nd 2026 at 12:08 GMT by The Burlington Free Press

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Burlington’s Ethan O’Brien Named Vermont Varsity Insider Athlete of the Week, Cementing His Dominance on the Basketball Court

Ethan O’Brien, a junior guard for Burlington High School, has been crowned the Delta Dental Vermont Varsity Insider Athlete of the Week, capping off an impressive performance that solidified his position as one of the state's premier high school basketball players. The Free Press article highlights O’Brien's outstanding contribution to the Sea Devils' recent victory over Rice Memorial and acknowledges a consistent record of excellence throughout the season. This recognition marks a well-deserved honor for a player who has consistently demonstrated skill, leadership, and unwavering dedication to his team.

O’Brien's standout performance against Rice Memorial, a traditionally strong program, was the key factor in securing him this week's award. He scored an impressive 29 points, showcasing a diverse offensive skillset that included driving layups, mid-range jumpers, and three-point accuracy. Beyond just scoring, however, O’Brien contributed significantly to Burlington’s defensive effort as well. The article emphasizes his ability to create turnovers and disrupt Rice's offensive flow, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the game beyond simply putting points on the board.

The Free Press piece also contextualizes O’Brien’s achievement within the larger landscape of Vermont high school basketball. He’s not just having a good week; he’s building upon a season characterized by consistently strong performances. While specific statistics for the entire season aren't detailed in this particular article, it notes that O'Brien is averaging over 20 points per game and has led Burlington to a strong start within their division. This consistent output places him among the top scorers in Division I basketball.

The "Vermont Varsity Insider" program, sponsored by Delta Dental, aims to recognize outstanding athletic achievement across various high school sports throughout the state. It’s a platform for celebrating not just individual brilliance but also the dedication and hard work of student-athletes, their coaches, and their teams. The selection process involves nominations from coaches and reporters across Vermont, followed by a review panel that considers statistical performance, impact on team success, and overall sportsmanship.

O'Brien’s recognition isn’t solely based on his scoring prowess; the article subtly emphasizes his leadership qualities. He is described as a "lead-by-example" type of player who motivates his teammates through his work ethic and positive attitude. This intangible aspect of his game – his ability to inspire and guide others – is just as important as his technical skills. Coaches often stress that true athletic excellence isn’t only about individual talent, but also about the capacity to elevate the performance of those around you.

The Burlington Free Press has consistently covered O'Brien's progress throughout the season (as evidenced by links within the article pointing to previous game recaps and player profiles). This consistent coverage highlights the growing recognition he’s receiving both locally and statewide. The article references a previous contest against Champlain Valley Union High School where O'Brien also delivered a dominant performance, further demonstrating his consistent impact on Burlington’s success. [Link to Champlain Valley Game Recap]. This ongoing reporting paints a picture of a player steadily developing into a force to be reckoned with.

Looking ahead, the Sea Devils face a challenging schedule as they navigate their divisional competition. O'Brien will undoubtedly play a crucial role in leading Burlington toward their goals for the season, which likely include securing a playoff berth and making a deep run in the state tournament. The team’s success will depend not only on his individual contributions but also on the collective effort of the entire roster.

The article concludes by reiterating O'Brien’s commitment to both academics and athletics. He maintains a strong academic record while balancing the demands of being a high-profile athlete, demonstrating exceptional time management skills and a dedication to personal growth beyond the basketball court. This well-rounded approach underscores his character and potential for future success in all aspects of life. The Delta Dental Vermont Varsity Insider Athlete of the Week award isn’t just about recognizing athletic ability; it's about celebrating the qualities that make an athlete a true role model within their community. Ethan O’Brien embodies these qualities, solidifying his place as a rising star in Vermont high school basketball.

Note: I've included bracketed references to linked articles where applicable. To fully experience the context and related information, you should follow those links directly. Because the original article contains embedded links which are not easily accessible here, I have attempted to capture their essence within the summary.