Who to Watch: 5A Wings
Our preseason breakdown of the 5A wings to watch this upcoming season:
Cole Alton (Senior, 6’6″, Boise High School, Boise Flite)
Boise High is replacing a lot in Seniors Paul Pennington (16.6 ppg), Lucan Centeno (11.3 ppg), and Trevor Tatko (7.8 ppg.) The one key returner back is Alton, a 6’6″ wing that averaged 13.9 ppg. along with 7.5 rbg. While Alton is a knock down three point shooter, he will dazzle those who watch with his ability to finish high above the rim. Alton reportedly has an offer from Idaho State University.
“Cole is a mismatch because of his size and length. He can shoot it from 3 and take you off the dribble.” Jon Nettleton, Mountain View High School.
Briggs Ranstrom (Junior, 6’6″, Rocky Mountain High School, Exum Elite)
Ranstrom is a do it all type player. He scores at a high level, most notably at the rim. Last year for Rocky he was showcased inside, but he handles and passes the ball like a point guard, rebounds like a big, and guards every position on the floor. Coaches around the Treasure Valley have gushed over his ability to guard on the ball as well as his tenacity on the court. If Ranstrom finds the ability to consistently knock down open shots on the perimeter, look out!
“Can easily play all five positions at an extremely high level. Has the potential to be one of the best to come out of Idaho in a very long time.” Dane Roy, Rocky Mountain Head Coach. Ranstrom currently holds an offer from Idaho State University.
Tanner Hayhurst (Junior, 6’5″, Eagle High School, Select)
Hayhurst, known for his ability to knock down perimeter jump shots, has continued to build on his game through the summer. His ability to create contact and finish has been an additional piece to his skill set. Hayhurst will be the go to guy for Eagle. Hayhurst currently holds an offer from Idaho State while also receiving interest from Utah State and Idaho.
“Tanner is a high level scorer. He is an elite shooter from the perimeter and has worked hard to expand his game to be able to score in multiple ways. He is a guy you love to coach because of his competitiveness and desire to get better. He has a high basketball IQ and is a guy you want on the court when the game is on the line. He has a very bright future in this game if he continues to work hard.” Michael Johnson, College of Idaho Assistant Coach.
Colby Gennett (Junior, 6’4″, Post Falls High School, Eastern Washington Elite)
Gennett, a starter at the 5A power since his Freshman year and returning IEL all league selection will be taking over the leadership role for his Post Falls squad. Gennett is an elite defender and rebounder. He will see an increased role in his scoring this year, both being able to shoot from three and attack the rim. Being 6’4″ with great length and strength allows Gennett to play anywhere on the floor.
“Elite defender who can defend multiple positions. This year he will carry much more of the scoring load for Post Falls, he will be the only player with Varsity experience. Best player in the north, already has multiple interest from 4 year schools.” Mike McClean, Post Falls High School.
Spencer Hathaway (Senior, 6’4″, Madison High School, Cache Valley Elite)
As is common on this list, Hathaway is capable of guarding multiple positions on the floor. Hathaway likes to abuse mismatches with his ability to step outside and shoot the 3 point shot, yet also post smaller defenders.
“Spencer is a match up nightmare for the opposing team, he can post you up down low, but he can really shoot it from the outside as well.” Travis Schwab, Madison High School.
Note: Statistics are provided by Idahoops.com.