Prospect Spotlight: Zach Rivers (2019 Wilsonville HS)
Wilsonville is looking to capture the title that eluded them last season and while the Wildcats certainly don’t lack anything when it comes to offensive firepower, but as the saying goes it’s rebounding and defense that wins championships. When it…
Access all of Prep Hoops
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingWilsonville is looking to capture the title that eluded them last season and while the Wildcats certainly don’t lack anything when it comes to offensive firepower, but as the saying goes it’s rebounding and defense that wins championships. When it comes to the latter, Zach Rivers has been their man. The long 6-foot-1, 160-pound guard has been getting the job done and as the senior ponders his college future, he’s getting down and dirty on opposing guards to ensure Wildcats victories.
“That’s my role on the team, to play lockdown defense on the other team’s best player – do what I got to do to win,” Rivers said. “But I’m also making open shots and creating for others. I’m just playing my role.”
Rivers played this past summer with the Nike Team Northwest AAU program and it gave him an opportunity to develop some of his offensive skills. But defense is definitely where the still physically maturing senior shines as he uses his length – a 6-foot-4 wingspan – and quick hands to disrupt passing lanes and grab steals.
Rivers also played for Wilsonville’s football team but basketball runs in his blood and it’s where he sees his college future resides. So far he’s heard the most from Division III Redlands and NWAC Clark CC, and he’s also looked into the prep school route.
“I’m keeping my options open,” Rivers said. “I just want somewhere I can fit in and play my game and fit into their system as well.”
More options should materialize as Wilsonville advances into what should be a long post-season run. While the state title is certainly the goal, Rivers isn’t looking too far ahead. “The next game is the most important – we just want to get better each week,” Rivers said. “It’s all team goals – try and win each game.”
Rivers currently ranks as the #109 player in the PrepHoops Oregon Class of 2019 rankings.