Region 4 Preview
Region 4 is as cut throat is it gets. In fact, the top four teams in the state in our Way Too Early Rankings: 6A are from this region. On any given night, almost any team in this region is capable of beating the other. Although this will result in some lost hair and high blood pressure from the coaches, this will create an awesome and memorable atmosphere from fans.
Region 4 Preview: Top 3
1. Lone Peak
Although size is important, solid guard play is crucial. Guards can live without strong post play, but posts cannot live without strong guard play. Lone Peak features one of the top backcourts in the state with Steven Ashworth and Chantry Ross. Ashworth and Ross’ ability to manage the tempo of the game, score, and get their teammates involved with be essential. In addition, Ashworth and Ross have a solid post presence in Jackson Brinkerhoff. Between these three and the immense amount of talent in the program, Lone Peak will be special this season.
2. Pleasant Grove
Matt Van Komen’s size and abilities make him a game changer. Pleasant Grove can afford to make mistakes on the defensive end that no one in the state can make as they have Van Komen to protect the rim and allow them to recover. In addition to Van Komen, Casey Brown will play a large role for this team at the point. He is smooth and has a nice feel for the game. He makes great reads and does not force things. His high level passing and IQ will make the rest of the players on this roster more effective. Lastly, Kawika Akina was the second leading scorer for the team last year and will continue to be pivotal. The scariest part about this team: these three players are all 2019 prospects. Pleasant Grove will be locked and loaded for at least the next couple of seasons.
3. American Fork
It is pretty crazy to think that American Fork could finish 3rd in region 4 and still be a legitimate title contender come the state tournament. This group has enough talent to finish anywhere from 1st to 4th in region 4. Consistency is going to be crucial. With the star power that Isaac Johnson offers, American Fork should always be in the hunt. However, American Fork’s ability to find consistent X-Factors who can make game changing plays will play a huge role in how their season goes. Some of those potential X-Factors include: Rob Crowther, Zach McWhorter, and Trey Stewart.
Other Key Contributors:
4. Bingham
Key Contributors: Brock Anderson, Brayden Cosper, and Dax Mline
5. Westlake
Key Contributors: Cooper Mattson and Jared McGregor