Fuquay-Varina’s Sarah Strong is News & Observer high school athlete of the week

Fuquay-Varina freshman Sarah Strong is the News & Observer athlete of the week.

The 6-foot-2 forward received more than 22,000 votes to finish ahead of Franklin Academy’s Max Badermian, who received slightly more than 19,000.

Strong won after averaging 33.5 points, 20.5 rebounds, 6.5 blocks and four steals in wins over Apex and Sanderson.

Strong had a triple-double with 39 points, 21 rebounds, 10 blocks, five assists and five steals in a 75-42 victory over Apex, Jan. 26.

The next day, Strong posted 28 points. 20 rebounds, three blocks and three steals in the Bengals’ 44-23 win at Sanderson.

Strong is averaging 25.5 points, 17.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 3.6 steals and 3.3 blocks per game for Fuquay Varina (4-4) this season.

Want to nominate an athlete?: Athletes of the week highlights high school players with outstanding performances. The goal is to recognize all athletes in all sports, both the most accomplished and the underrated or underappreciated players. If you want to suggest someone to be included in the Athletes of the week column, send email to Jay Edwards at edwardsraleighnewsobserver@gmail.com.

This story was originally published January 30, 2021 at 6:10 PM.