Preseason Predictions: MVP and First Team – 3A KingCO

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In this new series of articles, I will be showcasing each conference and predicting who could possibly win the MVP for the conference and see who could make each of the all conference teams in each one. This article will be about the 3A KingCo MVP and first team selections.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>MVP:</em></strong> [player_tooltip player_id='1451019' first='Marco' last='Varani'] (2025) - Bellevue HS</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Marco played with BFL Prep last season and grew his overall game a lot. His game is very well rounded as he can score from all 3 levels and find his teammates with his good court vision. He has a great frame, standing roughly 6'7" and has a long wingspan which helps him on the defensive side of the ball. I think he will step in and play a big role on this team and contribute in a big way right away.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>Other MVP Candidates:</em> [player_tooltip player_id='1450990' first='Shelton' last='Henton'] c/o 2025 - Interlake HS, [player_tooltip player_id='1710051' first='Denali' last='Hatcher'] c/o 2024</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em><strong>First Team Predictions:</strong></em> </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='1451019' first='Marco' last='Varani'] (2025) - Bellevue HS</em> - see above.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='1450990' first='Shelton' last='Henton'] (2025) - Interlake HS</em> - Shelton had a big summer playing on a very good circuit with Jones Academy. He showcased a nice ability to put the ball on the ground and get to the rim effectively going either way. Henton is strong in the paint being able to finish through players if he needs too. His game has been taking big steps but I expect him to take another step and show why he's a top player in the state.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='1710051' first='Denali' last='Hatcher'] (2024) - Liberty HS</em> - Denali was first team all league last season and played fantastic alongside league MVP, Ryan Gallagher. Hatcher is quick on the court, arguably one of the fastest players within the league. He is relentless on the court too, giving it his all every single possession. Hatcher controls the pace of the game well too, being a solid floor general.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='1623734' first='Kiyen' last='Martin'] (2024) - Lake Washington HS</em> - Martin was named 2nd team all league last year and rightfully so. He handles the ball well and keeps his eyes up as he looks for his teammates so he can distribute the ball smoothly. He will be the main option offensively for Lake Washington and should be able to put up solid numbers for the team. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>[player_tooltip player_id='1863195' first='Jackson' last='Whitaker'] (2026) - Liberty HS</em> - Jackson was just a freshman last year but he had a solid season, showcasing growth throughout the entire season in all areas of his game. He's an excellent three point shooter but can also facilitate an offense very nicely, finding his teammates often. He is going to take a huge leap this next season, showing everyone he is a top 2026 player in the state.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->