Players Who Balled Out in The Elite Eight
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There is a small percentage of players who step up big time when the playoffs come around, and we’re here to recognize these stars who have differentiated themselves from the competition. Garrett Barger CO #6 PF #1 HEIGHT 6'9" POS…
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Continue ReadingThere is a small percentage of players who step up big time when the playoffs come around, and we’re here to recognize these stars who have differentiated themselves from the competition.
A high flyer, Garrett Barger Garrett Barger 6’9″ | PF Eaglecrest | 2025 State #364 Nation CO makes a significant impact on the court. At the height of 6’8, no one dares to jump with Barger as he will consistently punish you down low. He’s quick on fast breaks and is always readily available for lobs thrown his way. In addition, he’s a strong rebounder who battles through contact with ease. Finishing at the rim is no problem for the big, and he proved his skills against the number one seed in the state in an upset. Be on the lookout for his impact in the final four and moving forward.
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A ferocious competitor, Max Orchard Max Orchard 6’3″ | CG Fruita Monument | 2024 State CO always finds a spark to light up his team with. His energy is unmatched on the floor and despite his squad coming up short in the end, he always found a way to go get the next bucket and keep his team in the game, especially in the clutch. His mid range game is money, along with his ability to slice through defenders with ease.
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Mr. Clutch himself, Carter Basquez Carter Basquez 6’5″ | CG Smoky Hill | 2026 State CO is a star in the making as he came up huge hitting a buzzer beater against no. 2 seed Mountain Vista, to send his team to the final four, but that’s not all that makes him so special. Not only can he soar through the air and play above the rim, he also knocks down triples at a scarily consistent rate. Basquez runs in transition, and if he’s not the one getting the steal, you bet he’s the one receiving the lob. His game is silky smooth and uses his long frame to his advantage.
The instant jaw drop when Oliver Junker Oliver Junker 6’6″ | PF Mountain Vista | 2026 State CO elevates to slam the ball is something else. When you least expect it, he’s the most athletic guy on Mountain Vista’s team. Not only is he their tallest guy, but also interesting to learn that he didn’t begin starting until later in the season. What a talent this guy is and a high ceiling due to him only being a sophomore. He will reject your shot with ease and at the other end constantly drive to the cup and cash in. Junker makes his free throws too, coming up clutch in the close contest against Smoky Hill.
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Carlos Arocho
Carlos Arocho
Carlos “Los” Arocho is always looking to put his team one step ahead. He’s a high energy guard who is a pest on defense and always interrupts passing lanes. Los is one of the biggest sparks on the Mountain Vista squad and has the biggest heart for the game. It’s easy to see just how much the game means to him. His competitive spirit and aggressive motor allows him to activate in the game. Los creates space for himself and knocks down shots from all three levels. Look for him to make an impact next year in his senior season as he bounces back from the heartbreaker against Smoky Hill.