5A Preview: 5 Darkhorse POY Candidates
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After a year off, the H.S season is around the corner. I have been diligently out on the road, checking in on programs and players, preparing an in-depth preview of the upcoming season The 5A division possesses some of the…
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Continue ReadingAfter a year off, the H.S season is around the corner. I have been diligently out on the road, checking in on programs and players, preparing an in-depth preview of the upcoming season The 5A division possesses some of the state’s heavy hitters, however, the clear-cut favorite for POY is up for debate. In this article, we take a look at some darkhorse candidates for 5A player of the year.
DJ Thomas DJ Thomas 6'2" | PG Liberty | 2024 #19 Nation NV 6’0 PG Liberty 2024 (#1PHN 2024) – Thomas is only a darkhorse because he’s yet to play a college game. The PG checks a ton of POY boxes. He’s going to be one of the top players on one of the best teams. He’ll probably have to share the scoring load, but his ability to create and find players should land him among the state leaders in assist.
Darrion Williams Darrion Williams 6'6" | SF Bishop Gorman | 2022 State NV 6’6 SF Bishop Gorman 2022 (#5PHN 2022) (featured image) – After his recent performance this weekend, Williams probably moves from darkhorse, to legitimate candidate. The Versatile forward already took home 1 MVP award this season, taking home the honors at the Ron Massey Invitational this weekend. One of the top players on a powerhouse program, Williams should have ample opportunity to prove his worth.
Shane Thomas Shane Thomas 6'3" | SG Durango | 2022 State NV 6’3 SG Durango 2022 (#3PHN 2022) – Starting to love Thomas a little more every time I see him. The wing checks a lot of boxes, both as a prospect and a player. Thomas is widely considered one of the top shooters, athletes, and defenders in the state. If he is able to display those skills, while the Trailblazers are racking up victories, then he will catapult himself into the POY mix.
Jalen Foy Jalen Foy 6'5" | SF Canyon Springs | 2022 State NV 6’5 SF Canyon Springs 2022 (#12PHN 2022) – May be a longshot, but a healthy Foy has an opportunity to have a big season for CS. He’s been known for his shooting ability since he’s been in high school. It’s his improved handle and playmaking ability, combined with his size that puts him in the POY mix.
John Mobley Jr John Mobley Jr 6'0" | PG Wasatch Academy | 2024 State #55 Nation UT 5’11 PG Bishop Gorman 2024 (#6PHN 2024) – The PG is an electrifying playmaker who should have his share of monster performances this season. His ability to shoot the ball is crazy, and Gorman is in line for another state title run. Perhaps the biggest obstacle to Mobley winning will probably be his other talented teammates, who may wind up sharing votes with the sophomore guard.