Prep Hoops Colorado 5A Team Rankings: Week 6
Action in 5A came back with a splash last week. There were big upsets, standout performances and the kind of close finishes that have us already looking ahead to some of the great matchups we’ll see in the playoffs.
But that’s getting ahead of ourselves. For now, let’s take a look at how teams have jostled for position in the sixth installment of our 5A rankings this season. Note, in a small change, that these are records updated through the games of Monday, Jan. 9:
1. ThunderRidge (11-1; LW: 3)
The Grizzlies went 2-0 last week, which included a highly impressive 71-61 road victory over previously No. 1-ranked George Washington. Corey Seng, the 6-4 senior guard, scored 29 points against the Patriots and has continued to be one of the state’s very best performers this season.
2. George Washington (10-2; LW: 1)
The Patriots suffered their first in-state loss of the season last week, falling to previously No. 3-ranked ThunderRidge at home 71-61. We certainly aren’t plunging G-Dub far after falling short against such a quality team. The Patriots can get back on track when they host Chaparral.
3. Chatfield (9-1; LW: 9)
The Chargers continue to prove that they can play with anybody. With a 69-61 victory over Doherty, followed by routs of Pomona and Lakewood, Chatfield extended its winning streak to eight games. The only loss for the Chargers this season was a 77-75 road defeat way back on Dec. 2.
4. Rock Canyon (11-2; LW: 2)
The Jaguars were stunned on the road to begin play last week against upstart Mountain Range. But they rebounded Friday with an overtime victory over Rangeview. Sam Masten scored 30 points in that game. Tyson Gilbert played his first game since transferring from Highlands Ranch and the junior point guard chipped in 11 points, four rebounds and two assists.
5. Grandview (10-1; LW: 7)
The Wolves scored a huge road victory over previously No. 4 Smoky Hill behind a monster 30-point game by 6-7 senior forward Gage Prim. The big man added 25 points a few nights later against Arapahoe, but, playing without starting point guard LeChaun Duhart (concussion), the Wolves fell to the Warriors 55-51 for their first loss of the season.
6. Eaglecrest (8-2; LW: 6)
The Raptors rolled to convincing victories last week over Overland and Mullen. They have won four straight games and six of their last seven. Senior forward Josh Walton is averaging a key 6.8 points and 5.3 rebounds this season.
7. Smoky Hill (8-3; LW: 4)
The Buffaloes began last week with a setback, falling to Grandview 78-66 at home. They rebounded, though, by defeating Cherokee Trail 71-65 on the road behind a near triple-double — 22 points, nine rebounds, nine assists — by 6-4 sophomore guard Kenny Foster.
8. Cherry Creek (10-1; LW: 8)
The Bruins continued their surprisingly hot start to the season by scoring home Centennial League wins over Overland and Cherokee Trail. Jalen Meeks averaged 15.5 points in the two victories. The 6-2 unsigned senior guard continues to be one of the biggest stock risers in his class at the position.
9. Denver East (9-4; LW: 5)
The Angels have benefitted greatly from the debut of Daylen Kountz, who averaged 27 points in his first two games since becoming eligible following his transfer from George Washington. Still, East suffered a surprising upset Monday night on the road at the hands of Lakewood, 90-77.
10: Doherty (7-3; LW: 10)
The Spartans bounced back from the loss to Chatfield by blasting Coronado to move to 1-0 in league play as they begin their pursuit of another Colorado Springs Metro League title.