4A Conference Preview: Division Predictions
With conference play getting underway this weekend, we take a look at the 4A division, which has one of the most intriguing setups. All 20 teams in the conference reside in the same city, making for some naturally intense rivalries.…
Access all of Prep Hoops
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingWith conference play getting underway this weekend, we take a look at the 4A division, which has one of the most intriguing setups. All 20 teams in the conference reside in the same city, making for some naturally intense rivalries. The conference consists of 4 divisions of 5 teams. On the eve of conference play, here’s a look at our Division Predictions for the year.
Sky:
Division Champ: Cimarron – The Spartans have one of the state’s best coaches in Darryl Branham, and he has perhaps his deepest team in years. They will have Dalon Mitchell, and Amir McDaniels to hold down the defensive side. Jesse Judkins, and Chris Cardona, provide shooting. Casey Branham brings the leadership, and Gerald Patterson is one of the best low post scorers in the Division.
Player of the year:
Low post phenom, looks poised to have a monster year. With the numbers he’s already put up, he should already be one of the favorites to take home POY honors.
Highlights
Freshman of the year: Gasim Yousif Del Sol
Defensive player of the year: Ghalib Ghallab Chapparal
Newcomer of the Year: Alvonte Nelson Basic
Most improved: Todd Fox Del Sol
All Division Team
Ghalib Ghallab Chapparal
Christian Baltierrez Basic
Amir Mcdaniels Cimarron
Oscar Sampallo Del Sol
Casey Branham Cimarron
Mountain:
Division Champ: Bonanza – The Bengals are seeking back-to-back division championships, but with a new cast of characters. Calin Farrimon and Ephram Ezidiegwu lead the way for a team with playoff ambitions.
Player of the year:
Fabello is one of the top scoring PG’s in the state. His ability to dominate a game with his shooting and playmaking is extremely valuable, and Valley has a legitmate stud every time they take the floor.
Freshman of the year: None
Defensive player of the year: Charles Riley Legacy
Newcomer of the Year: Jalen Butler Shadow Ridge
Most improved: Rashaud Smith Legacy
All Division Team
Nakalya Fabello Valley
Jalen Butler Shadow Ridge
Kevan Wilkins Valley
Antonio Burns Legacy
Charles Riley Legacy
Lake:
Division Champs: Mojave – The Rattlers are heavy favorites to win the division. The #1 ranked team in 4A is looking to go back-to-back behind a deep and talented roster, that features sophomore stud, CJ Shaw, steady hand guard Giali Chapman, Newcomers Montez Simmons, and Zaccarrion Jackson have added depth to the team.
Player of the year:
Shaw looks to continue his dominance against the division in his second season. The athletic, slasher, scorer carried the Rattlers to the state title last season and is a heavy favorite to do the same this year. It starts with conquering the division.
Highlights
Freshman of the year: Tommy Isbell Silverado
Defensive player of the year: Tayshaun Jackson Las Vegas
Newcomer of the Year: Brock Barney Green Valley
Most improved: Marcus Gomez Las Vegas
All Division Team
Tayshaun Jackson Las Vegas
Julius Robinson Silverado
CJ Shaw Mojave
Giali Chapman Mojave
Brock Barney Green Valley
Desert:
Division Champs Rancho – The Rams have one of the city’s best 1 – 2 punches in Jakoi Lide and R’zha Whittle. Caleb Roston gives them defense and wing scoring, and Jordan Childress and Jailen Childress, give them a pair of handlers that can defeat pressure and create for others.
Player of the year:
Whittle is one of the most dominating low post precense in the city. He has good hands and terrific footwork, and most importantly the Rams like to play through him. His combination of touches along with team production give him the slight edge in the POY race.
Freshman of the year: Laronte Johnson Spring Valley
Defensive Player of the year: Caleb Roston Rancho
Newcomer of the year: Devin Mabry Spring Valley
Most improved: Xavion Staton Sierra Vista
All Division Team
R’zha Whittle Rancho
Devin Mabry Spring Valley
Steven Carter Cheyenne
EJ Dacuma Sierra Vista
Jakoi Lide Rancho