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Toliver, a 5-foot-10 guard, has helped lead Springfield’s defense with fast footwork that often frustrates opposing players. Though Toliver doesn’t get many steals, Springfield coach Isaiah Carson said his pressure forces opponents to speed up and make sloppy passes that other Springfield players intercept.
“Coach has told me that not many guys can move their feet like me, so I just want to be the spark for our defense and do what’s good for our team,” Toliver said after a win over Miamisburg in February.
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It’s been a long journey to varsity for Toliver. Springfield has been loaded with good guards all four of Toliver’s years, including fellow seniors Danny Davis and Michael McKay. Since Toliver wasn’t able to score as much others, he relentlessly practiced to improve his defensive skills while he was on freshman and junior varsity teams.
The work didn’t go unnoticed. After coming off the bench in a few games last season, Toliver has started in 16 games this year and has played a lot of minutes in most others. He is usually tasked with defending opponents’ best ball handlers.
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“What he does for us is invaluable,” Carson said. “He gets that pressure on, and all of our guys feed off of him. Defense really makes the difference for us, so that’s huge.”
Toliver has been helped in his career by his father Terry, a former head coach of several area girls teams and currently a director of an AAU girls program based in Dayton. Terry Toliver is also an assistant coach for Trotwood’s boys team, which will play Cincinnati Taft in a D-II regional semifinal on Thursday.
The two were on opposite benches during a game on Feb. 17, when Trotwood beat Springfield 88-73.
“It was an emotional game to play against my dad and cool, since not many people get to do that,” Toliver said. “… He’s taught me that I’ve got to get it on my own. Work hard, and don’t depend on anybody else, just work hard by myself.”
Springfield advanced to Wednesday's regional game by beating Cincinnati Oak Hills 46-42 in overtime and will likely be in another defensive fight against La Salle. The Lancers score an average of 48 points per game and have held opponents to an average of 41.3 points.
Presale tickets are available in the Springfield High School athletic office from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday for $7. They cost $8 at the door.
Wednesday’s game
What: Division I regional semifinal, Springfield (23-3) vs. Cincinnati La Salle (23-3)
When: 8 p.m.
Where: Nutter Center, Wright State University
Next: Winner advances to a regional final Friday at Wright State, facing either Moeller or Mason at 7:30 p.m.
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