Class 4A Preview: “Dark Horses”

<p>The 4A class is filled with talent here in Oklahoma! Here are some teams who are going to be sneaky good this year and look to make a "dark horse" run for the Gold Ball.</p> <p><em><strong>Ada (2018-19: 15-11, eliminated in 5A Area Consolation Championship)</strong></em></p> <p>Top Dog: <a href="https://prephoops.com/player/jaxson-robinson">Jaxson Robinson</a> (2021) - This 6'6 guard can flat out SHOOT it. The #2 player in the 2021 class, Robinson has the chance to give Ada the push all the way to the state tournament this year.</p> <p>With only three seniors, Ada will be driven by a young team hungry to make a name for itself. Expect to see a team that gives 100% at all times and never taking its foot off the pedal.</p> <p><em><strong>Anadarko (2018-19: 22-7, eliminated in the first round of the 4A State Tournament)</strong></em></p> <p>Key Role: <a href="https://prephoops.com/player/cash-novotny">Cash Novotny</a> (2020) - Novotny's build allows him to play nearly any position on the court. Thriving in the high post, never giving up on the boards and playing full of pride and confidence, his style of game plays right into the Anadarko offense.</p> <p>With ball movement being the key focus point of Coach Schumpert's offense, this Warriors squad will thrive in transition and force teams to scramble back in transition.</p> <p><em><strong>Bethany (2018-19: 21-7, eliminated in 4A Area Tournament)</strong></em></p> <p>Dynamic Duo: <a href="https://prephoops.com/player/brennan-burns">Brennan</a> and <a href="https://prephoops.com/player/cameron-burns">Cameron Burns</a> (2020) - These brothers' games complement each other perfectly for this Bethany squad. Brennan, a 6'1 point guard, keeps the offense moving and is key to the Broncos' pace of play. Cameron, a bit taller and lankier than his brother, has the ability to score from all three levels. The play of these brothers is key to the success of Bethany's season. </p> <p>If I had to pick one of these teams to go and take the Gold Ball this year, this would be the one. With a point guard who can match up with any other in his 4A and a coach who is proven to get the most out of his players, don't count Bethany out in the race for a state championship.<br /> <br /> <em><strong>Tulsa Central (2018-19: 22-8, eliminated in the first round of the 4A State Tournament)</strong></em></p> <p>Top Dog: <a href="https://prephoops.com/players/bj-jefferson">BJ Jefferson</a> (2020) - One of, if not the most athletic player in his class, Jefferson crashes the glass hard and is a force in transition. His length and agility create havoc anytime his opponent comes into the paint, as he is one of the best shot blockers in his class.</p> <p>This Tulsa Central team thrives in a quick tempo game. The faster they can get the ball into transition, the more pressure they can apply to their opponents. Expect this squad to go on a deep state playoff run if they all buy-in and play their game.</p>