Kade Luker, a two‑way standout from Cedar Creek, capped a breakout campaign that placed his team among the elite in Division IV select baseball.
On the mound he finished 10‑1 with a 1.04 ERA and 135 strikeouts over 74 innings, while at the plate he batted .531 with five homers, 36 RBIs and a blend of doubles, triples and stolen bases that kept opponents guessing.
The performance earned him All‑Northeast Louisiana Player and Pitcher of the Year, and made him the first Ruston athlete in 35 years to capture the Gatorade Louisiana Baseball Player of the Year award.
A Dual‑Threat Star
Coach Chad Yates praised the squad’s culture, noting that Luker’s dominance reminded him of former standout Garrett Williams, and highlighted the team’s chemistry as a foundation for success.
The roster includes players such as Ryan Coleman, Drew Wade, Eli Slocum, Connor Yates, Jayce Ruiz, Cole Luker, Brett Bell, Ridge Heisler and Josh Uchtmann, each adding depth to a campaign that aims to translate individual brilliance into team glory.
Looking ahead, Luker says he wants to tighten his emotional control and trust his defense, while the program aims to claim its first LHSAA championship since 2014.
Championship Outlook
Ranked No. 3 in Division IV select, Cedar Creek is poised to chase its first state title in over a decade, with Luker leading a talented group that includes teammates like Brett Bell and Ridge Heisler.