Region Preview: 5A Sonoran

Jordan Augustine

October 9, 2017 @ 10:12 PM

Cholla was the bright spot in a Sonoran region that was a down last season. With that said, there is plenty of returning talent in the Sonoran region and it is safe to say that this region will be tougher than last season. Although there will be more competition, Cholla, who won the region last year, is the clear cut favorite at this point.

Region Preview: 5A Sonoran

1. Cholla

Despite having a strong season and plenty of talent, Cholla did not get much respect due to the region they played in. With that said, this region should be more improved this season. In fact, after going 21-5, Cholla has the potential to be even better this year. One of the primary reasons for this optimism is the returning of do it all guard Marcel Dean. Dean makes the engine run for this team as he generates the vast majority of the team’s offense. In addition to Dean, Myles Gantt Myles Gantt 6'0" | PG Cholla | 2020 State AZ returns after a strong Freshman season for Cholla. Gantt was one of the leading scorers in the state for 2020 prospects and should play an even bigger role now that he has a year of varsity experience under his belt.

2. Marana

Marana returns the most depth out of any of the teams in Sonoran. Although Andrew Smith only played part of the season, he led the team in scoring in the games that he did play. In addition to Smith, Tyson Conner was one of the most consistent players on the roster last year. Conner, despite only being 6’2, is a PF who is very active on the glass and willing to do all of the little things. Lastly, look for Jesus Valenzuela to make an impact this season. The active PG gets his hands in the passing lane well and can get into paint at a good rate while also being able to shoot it from deep.

3. Poston Butte

Although this group will lose the big man in the middle, Tyson Beringer, they do return a strong core. Jacob Motley did a little bit of everything for the group as he led them in scoring and assists. His quickness and ability to get into the paint make him a tough prospect to limit. He is capable of affecting the game in a number of ways. In addition to Motley, Kevin Johnson and Logan Hatch will have increased roles for the group. Hatch was second on the team in rebounding last year. With Beringer gone, Hatch will be relied on more and more to create possessions off of rebounds.