Stehle leading Crimson in rebounds and steals

Former Newton South High School basketball and golf captain Matt Stehle is now a junior at Harvard University, where the 6-foot-8-inch forward was leading the men's basketball team in rebounding and steals and was second in scoring through six games.

After averaging just 4.4 minutes per game during an injury-shortened freshman year, Stehle had a breakthrough season for the Crimson last season, earning All-Ivy League honorable mention and ranking among the top 10 in league statistics for scoring, rebounding, steals, blocks (he was first in the league), and field goal and free throw percentage.

''Matt brought a strong understanding here from Newton South of how to be a teammate. He's one of the best teammates we've had here," said Harvard coach Frank Sullivan. ''He's a natural leader of our team in a lot of respects, and that's the most significant thing about him. And his game has grown. His toughness is catching up with his skill level, and he's a very talented guy."

Stehle lettered for three years in basketball and golf at Newton South. He helped the basketball team win a pair of Dual County League titles and post a 59-9 record during his three years on the varsity. Stehle was named to the Globe's Super Team and was the DCL's Most Valuable Player his senior year for basketball. His uncles, Brian McAndrews (track and field, class of 1980) and Chris McAndrews (baseball, class of '86) were letter-winners at Harvard.

A left-handed post player with strong inside moves and a good outside shot, Stehle was averaging 13 points and 9.8 rebounds per game while shooting .452 from the field (28 for 62), which included 4 for 9 from three-point range. He had also chipped in with six blocked shots and 10 steals.

''I expect him to be one of the best players in the Ivy League," added Sullivan. ''He certainly was last year. He's our best offensive rebounder, and he's proven to himself that he can play at this level and be successful. He's made some strides because he stays in games longer and has learned to play without fouling as much. Now he just has to maintain that consistency."

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