Prep Hoops Colorado 5A Team Rankings: Week 1
Each year during the high school season we will rank the teams in Divisions 5A down to 3A, with a quick explanation on each.
With the season officially tipping off with a big slate of games Wednesday, here is our first set of 5A rankings:
1. Eaglecrest (0-0)
After coming up just short in the 5A title game, the Raptors return almost everyone, including Gatorade player of the year Colbey Ross. Experienced, battle-tested and talented. ‘Crest is the clear frontrunner to begin the season.
2. Smoky Hill (0-0)
Go ahead and raise your eyebrows. The Buffs won only a handful of games last season and didn’t even make the playoffs. But doubt them at your own risk. Loaded with future Division I players, there isn’t a more talented team in the state. If they can avoid the injuries that crippled them last year, look out.
3. Regis Jesuit (0-0)
The Raiders looked to be in midseason form during the summer, and Ken Shaw’s teams only become more cohesive. Regis is a little younger than normal, but they are still experienced and full of shooters.
4. George Washington (0-0)
The best defensive backcourt in the state with the trio of Jon’il and Calvin Fugett and Jervay Green is a good place to start. This squad will outrun teams to victory.
5. Denver East (0-0)
Size, speed and, when his transfer window is over in January, the top junior in the state in Daylen Kountz. After missing the final four last year, the Angels could be right back in the mix.
6. Rock Canyon (0-0)
Kent Grams has to replace some key glue pieces from last season’s cohesive squad, but with junior guard Sam Masten running the show and former Highlands Ranch guard Tyson Gilbert joining the Jaguars, this will be a team that can compete with anyone.
7. ThunderRidge (0-0)
The Grizzlies are always in the mix because of the disciplined style they play under Joe Ortiz. They’ll miss the size of Clay Verk and Austin Mueller, but Kaison Hammonds is in for a breakout year, Corey Seng can play everywhere and there are some promising young pieces on the rise.
8. Doherty (0-0)
Jarris Krapcha has an experienced group led by point guard Brevin Brimble that is eager to taste more success after a run to the 5A quarterfinals last season.
9. Grandview (0-0)
The inside-outside combo of LeChaun Duhart and Gage Prim will cause problems. And the Wolves have some good shooters who can spread the floor.
10. Mountain Vista (0-0)
The Golden Eagles will miss the playmaking of Trey Boeyink, but Isaac Essien is among the best point guards in the state, and 6-8 big Jake Belknapp can be a handful.