Region Preview: 6A Central
For a long time, Corona Del Sol has been the favorite to win their region. Further, they have been the favorite to win state many of those years as well. Although they still have a lot of talent and the ability to win the region, they are not the favorite as of yet in the central region. This region is loaded with athleticism and skill. It will be a tough road for every team in this region. However, they will be battle tested and ready to compete in the state tournament by the end.
Region Preview: 6A Central
1. Desert Vista
Desert Vista has had some turnover but also received some talented transfers who will provide them plenty of talent. Wesley Harris will be the top returner back on the roster. He is active on the glass and has a soft touch around the rim. Further, he is a good athlete who can create. In addition to Harris, Duane Miller has a high basketball IQ and does a nice job of creating shots for his teammates. Lastly, Christian Anigwe will provide a versatile PF/C presence who can protect the rim and create mismatches.
2. Mountain Pointe
Mountain Pointe took a huge hit in the transfer of Malik Salahuddin. However, the group has plenty of athleticism and skill. Jalen Graham is one of the most improved players in the state. His ability to play on the perimeter as well as on the block make him a mismatch nightmare. Over the summer, he was used in what many coaches refer to as the “dunker spot”, the deep short corner. His length and athleticism enabled the guards to get him touches around the rim when the help side rotated. Graham will need the supporting cast to step up. One of the players I expect to have a solid season is Amarion Cash.
3. Gilbert
Doc Self and Trajon Hawkins will play valuable minutes for this group. Like the other two teams ahead of them on this preview, Gilbert lost a skilled transfer. With that said, they are well prepared to move forward. They are well coached and have plenty of athletes as well as talent. With the leadership of Self and Hawkins, this group should be just fine. Self and Hawkins will take huge leaps and add on to the productive season that they had last year. Jacquez Barrow will be another playmaker for this group.
Other Key Contributors
4. Corona Del Sol
Key Contributors: Dalen Terry Dalen Terry 6'7" | PG Hillcrest Prep | 2020 State #32 Nation AZ , Eric Blackwell Eric Blackwell 6'0" | CG Corona del Sol | 2020 State AZ , and Melek Alexander
5. Highland
Key Contributors: Trenton Walker and Carter Coray
6. Desert Ridge
Key Contributors: Aaron Sayco