Athlete Spotlight: Boston Cranston

DICKINSON — Senior Boston Cranston has experienced many battles on the basketball court. 
And some of the most intense happened not in a gymnasium, but at home, facing older brother, Britton, and younger brother, Beckett, in games of king of the court and one-on-one. 
Growing up in a basketball family has developed a love to compete and a desire to improve within him.
“I’ve played basketball for as long as I can remember,’’ Cranston said. “I remember going to watch my dad (Randy) coach for Watford City.”
Growing up with a dad as a coach enabled Boston to learn the proper fundamentals. And having an older brother to look up to and play against, provided early confidence in his skills.
His development has included off-season camps and competing on travel teams. Those experiences only strengthened his love for the sport and a mindset to continue to improve.
His opportunity at the varsity level came as a freshmen, seeing some minutes on the floor. The past three seasons he’s been in the starting lineup.
The 6-2 guard has emerged as one of the WDA’s top players. He surpassed 1,000 career points earlier this season and currently he is among the conference players in points per game. He is averaging 25 per game. 
What makes the two-time All-WDA selection a handful for opposing defenses is his athleticism, ball handling, shooting accuracy and strong basketball IQ. 
Cranston can knock down shots from the perimeter, or beat a defender off the dribble to get into the paint.
A Maverick possession rarely doesn’t include the ball in his hands.
While fans and followers of the program see his offensive prowess, Maverick coach Dan Glasser sees much more. 
“He never makes a selfish decision and he makes sure the team always comes first,’’ he said.
Over time Boston has grown into a leadership role, becoming more vocal to his teammates.
“His communication has improved throughout the years,’’ Glasser said. “I would still say that he still does most of his leading by example, but when he does talk to his team, everyone understands that it must be important. And they need to respond to what he says.”
When Cranston steps on the floor, opposing defenses do their best to slow him down, either with extra ball pressure or being more physical. Fortunately, his teammates have his back.
“Everyone on our team understands and has seen the time he has put into his game,’’Glasser said. “They all realize that he has the ability to put us in the best position to be successful. And if he draws too much attention (from defenders), he believes in his teammates as much as he believes in himself. And he will get them in a position to be just as successful.”

Like any player, there is always room for improvement. For Cranston, it’s making strides on the defensive side of the ball. Making sure to give a consistent effort and force opponents to work to get their shots. He is among the WDA leaders in steals per game.

Last season, Dickinson returned to the state tournament for the first time since 2020. With several players back from that squad, the goal to qualify again is on the minds of Cranston and his teammates. 
“I think what makes us hard to play is our aggressiveness on defense and having lots of different guys who can score, he said.

Basketball hopefully will be in the future for Boston once his time in a Dickinson uniform ends. “My goal is to play at the next level,’’ he said. 
He knows that will require more work, but he has the drive. 
“Boston is just as impressive off the court as he is on the court,’’ Glasser said. “Our community and program are lucky to have a player and person like him to represent (Dickinson). He has been a perfect example for our youngers players and kids to look up to.”
 

Photo by Loralyn Joyce, WDA event photographer