Region Preview: 6A East Valley
The 6A East Valley region will look a little different this upcoming season with a number of skilled prospects graduating. Further, long time Mesa head coach, Shane Burcar, will no longer be in the region. With that said, this is one of the most well-coached regions in the state and will be as competitive as ever.
Below are the top three teams in the region at this point. Red Mountain took a huge hit with Dre Harris making the decision to transfer to Bella Vista Prep. With that said, Red Mountain could still contend for a top three spot as they have talent that will keep them competitive as well.
1. Mesa
Mesa will have to move forward without Mark Hatch. With that said, Tony Adame played at a high level last year and will look to take on a bigger role at the point guard spot. He will be responsible for a huge transition in the program as head coach Shane Burcar made the transition to being an assistant coach at Northern Arizona Univeristy. Adame will need to do more than generate offense as this team will need his leadership.
Zach Hobbs will be the primary scoring threat for Mesa this upcoming season. Hobbs is a versatile scoring threat who can score the ball from an array of spots on the floor. His ability to score the basketball will be key for this hard-nosed team.
2. Mesa Mountain View
Derick Kaps will most likely be looked to as the starting point guard despite his youth. He has a good feel for the game and makes great decisions. His ability to manage the tempo of the game will play a huge role in the overall success of Mesa Mountain View in this upcoming season. Fortunately, Kaps will not be alone in having Mountain View play at a high level.
Zach Lyons will also play a key role for the team. He is an undersized four who plays with tremendous hurt and toughness. His motor aids him in being effective at that spot despite his height. Further, he has improved his game and has transitioned to a 3. His potential versatility will aid the team as well.
Mesa Mountain View is always well coached and will have the pieces needed to have a strong season.
3. Skyline
Skyline has the most returning firepower. It would not be surprising to see this group take a huge leap and potentially finish at a higher spot than number three on this list. Patrick Herrera had a strong season despite his youth. Needless to say, there is a lot of excitement about him and his ability to take his game to another level this season.
In addition to Herrera, Dayton Harris was the go to prospect for the team last season. He is tough to keep in front. Further, he makes his teammates better and will be looked to once again for his leadership and play making ability. Harris will have an incoming freshman to aid him with leading the team as well.
Dominic Capriotti is a knockdown shooter who will help this team due to his ability to extend the floor. Between these three guys Skyline will take a huge step forward and have the potential to have one of the best seasons in school history.