City rankings: Yakima to Ellensburg
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It’s about a thirty minute drive from Yakima to Ellensburg, which is far as I will go with these rankings. Zillah and Toppenish are closer to Yakima, and both of these small towns have produced some of the most talented…
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Continue ReadingIt’s about a thirty minute drive from Yakima to Ellensburg, which is far as I will go with these rankings. Zillah and Toppenish are closer to Yakima, and both of these small towns have produced some of the most talented players in the area recently. The two class 1A schools have taken turns beating up on each other as the best teams in SCAC West league. Zillah had won 122 league games in a row spanning over the last decade. Toppenish ended that streak last season with a surprising 28 point victory. It’s a heated rivalry and the talent level has maybe never been better than it was the last two years from both schools. Don’t be fooled, these small 1A schools can ball. Both lost a lot of talent from last season, but there are still three players that make the list. Taking it up one level, Selah has a talented combo in the 2A ranks, although the most talented area player in 2A is at Ellensburg. Here’s my top players from Yakima and the surrounding areas.
He’s the number six player in the class of 2023. When it’s all said and done, he could be the best prospect in the state. He missed some games last year due to injury, now fully healthy he’s getting a lot of attention from college coaches and rightly so. At 6’10, he is the best post prospect in the class of 23. You might think back to the basket player, but he’s much more than that. He can extend his shooting range beyond the three point line. He is extremely mobile for a big guy and can really run the floor. I don’t know, think Chet Holmgren. He’ll put it on the deck and get himself to the bucket. Unique skill set for his size. He has a little nasty to his game as well. He’s athletic enough to catch a lob running the break. He’s a good shot blocker. Take notice, he’s about to rise up.
Highlights
At 6’5, he’s a stretch 3 that scores on all levels. He got around 20PPG for Zillah last season, on a really good team. He’s also a good athlete who can run, and finish on the break. He’ll create space off the bounce and has a very soft touch to hit shots from mid-range as well. He’s a scorer first but can also help you his length. He’s got long arms and a slight build, but strong on the court. One of the best players in all of class 1A.
Here’s another talented stretch 3 type that can score it in bunches. He’s got great footwork, and he uses it to score in the paint with a variety of moves. He will also let it fly from three and has the ability to shoot over the defense off the dribble. Something he does well. A good rebounder who will grab and go. He can play any position on the floor. Versatile and skilled.
He’s been a staple for Toppenish hoops and football for the last few years, leading both to state tournament appearances last year. As the QB on the football team and point guard in hoops. He’s an all state talent in both. He’s a dependable point guard and a great shooter. Tough in the lane, he’s strong enough to take the contact and finish. He plays smart and is a true floor general you can trust with the ball in his hands. Both Toppenish and Zillah were among the best teams in class 1A the last two years. They aren’t going anywhere.
Highlights
As a freshman point guard, he led Davis to a state tournament appearance last season. He showed lots of potential to both score and facilitate. He scored 31 points vs Wenatchee in an overtime victory. He’s a wiry 6’0 with decent length and good strength for his size. He can knock down threes but seems more likely to go by the defense, using good quickness. He showed a ton of poise for a freshman starter at the 3A level.
Shane Rivera
Shane Rivera
Maybe flying under the radar somewhere here. He’s been an important part of Toppenish’s success the last couple years. A long and lanky forward who is skilled. He is good around the basket, and active. He’ll rebound, and can run all day long. Nice touch from mid range, Toppenish will be a tough out with he and Perez back for their senior season and battle tested.
A returning all league player for Ellensburg. Like his taller teammate Marrs, he’s also skilled and at 6’5, Ellensburg has some options with these two. They will be a problem in 2A, and should be a good bet to get to Yakima, and make some noise.
Highlights
OTHER PLAYERS TO WATCH IN THE AREA :
Blake Garza Blake Garza 6'6" | SF Davis | 2024 State WA -Davis
Brandon Lee Brandon Lee 6'0" | CG Davis | 2024 State WA -Davis
Jackson Pepper – Selah
Demetreus Sadeddin – West Valley (Yakima)
Landen Birley Landen Birley 6'4" | SG West Valley (Yakima) | 2025 State WA -West Valley (Yakima)
Aiden Garza – Zillah
Chase Staymates-East Valley (Yakima)