Standout Players On AIA Playoff Teams Pt. 1

As teams prepare to begin the playoffs here are some of the standout players that are major keys for their postseason success:


Dylan Anderson Dylan Anderson 7'0" | C Perry | 2022 State #88 Nation AZ Perry

The big fella holds down the middle for one of the title favorites in 6A. Dylan dominates in a few facets of the game. His rebounding and shot blocking are superior. When his jumper is going, he’s next to unstoppable. The Pumas have high expectations and some expect that they’ll be playing in that final game.

Arman Madi Arman Madi 6'6" | SF Brophy Prep | 2023 State AZ Brophy Prep (Featured image)

A long wing has upped his performance this season for the Broncos. Arman has always been a good shooter but now he has added a mid range game and uses his bigger frame to overpower smaller defenders. He leads Brophy heading into the playoffs as the hottest team in the AIA.

Elijah Saunders Elijah Saunders 6'8" | PF Sunnyslope | 2022 State AZ Sunnyslope

The X factor in this years 6A playoffs. His size and skill is unmatched in the AIA. He’s equally outside as he is inside. He will take Sunnyslope a long way and possibly to a repeat title.

Tru Washington Tru Washington 6'3" | CG AZ Compass Prep | 2023 State #61 Nation AZ Mountain Pointe

An athletic guard has been the leader for the Pride as they look to get back to the Championship game and finish what they started last year. There’s not a player in the state who has the motor that Tru does.

Jake Lifgren Jake Lifgren 6'1" | CG Centennial | 2022 State AZ Centennial

 A crafty scorer is the leader for one of the 5A favorites. Give Jake a little room and he’ll give you a bunch of buckets in a hurry. Lifgren & Co will be there at the end when it’s all said and done.

Caleb Shaw Caleb Shaw 6'5" | CG Valley Christian | 2022 State AZ Valley Christian

Shaw, coming off a 50 point plus performance, is the catalyst for Valley Christian heading into the playoffs. His shots come within the flow of the offense and doesn’t take many bad shots.

Nikko Pentelute Nikko Pentelute 6'1" | CG Gilbert | 2022 State AZ Gilbert 

A tough guard is the leader for the Tigers. Nikko is a scoring guard who’s tough to stop when he gets going. I’ve seen him outscore opposing teams by himself more than once.

Nathan Calmese Nathan Calmese 6'2" | PG Mesquite | 2022 State AZ Mesquite

One of the leading scorers in the state leads his Mesquite squad into the playoffs. He’ll be hard to contain due to the vast array of shots that he has in his arsenal.