Team Previews: #2. Shadow Mountain
Head Coach: Michael Warren
Affiliation: AIA, Division 2, Section 3
Top Dog(s): JJ Rhymes (6’3″, G, SR); Michael Bibby (6’1″, G, SR);
Sleeper: Jovan Blackshear (5’9″, G, SO);
Notes: There is little doubt that Shadow Mountain has the most talented group of players, throughout, in the AIA. The former Division 2 state champions are ready for their 2016 class’ final run. The Matadors are led by 6’3″ JJ Rhymes and 6’1″ Michael Bibby who are widely considered the best backcourt in the state of Arizona. Bibby, one of the state’s best floor generals and playmakers was out during Shadow’s run last season before they fell in the state tournament. Adding him back makes everyone around him better. Also returning to the backcourt is 6’2″ junior Jordan Pace and 6’3″ junior Darion Spottsville. The Matadors will get a big lift from defensive specialist Bryce Fisher and freshman scoring guard Jaelen House. In the frontcourt Isaiah Jones has the ability to score with his back to the basket and hold it down in the paint defensively. One unsung hero this season could be freshman guard Jovan Blackshear. The 5’9″ 2019 prospect is a true point guard in every sense of the term. Where Shadow struggled with Bibby off the floor, his presence and ability to run a team will keep the transition smooth when substitutions are made.