5A Season Preview

New Look For 5A (2024-2025 Records Below)   Arbor View - 18-9 Overall (6-5 In Conference Play)   Bishop Gorman - 25-4 Overall (10-1 In Conference Play)   Centennial - 5-21 Overall (5-6 In Conference Play)   Coronado - 14-11 Overall (11-0 In Conference Play)   Democracy Prep - 19-8 Overall - Previously In The 3A Southern Region   Desert Pines - 11-10 Overall (6-5 In Conference Play)   Liberty - 14-10 Overall (8-3 In Conference Play)   Mojave - 19-1 Overall (8-3 In Conference Play)   Sierra Vista - 26-5 Overall - Previously In The 4A Desert League     Predictions   1. Coronado - The Coronado Cougars are more stacked than ever after bringing in a huge haul of talented transfers this offseason. Their additions include [player_tooltip player_id='1490283' first='Amare' last='Oba'], [player_tooltip player_id='1707488' first='Demari' last='Hunter'], [player_tooltip player_id='2509672' first='Siyahe' last='Siaisiai'], [player_tooltip player_id='2484289' first='Devaughn' last='Dorrough'], and ESPN Top-25 recruit [player_tooltip player_id='1406767' first='Munir' last='Greig'].   Oba, who spent last season at Basic Academy and Skyline Prep, is expected to be one of their primary scorers. Hunter, Siasiai, and Dorrough all arrived from California, and each of them has already made a positive impact. Hunter's motor and two-way presence have stood out. Siasiai will hold down the paint as their starting center. And Dorrough brings a powerful, physically imposing forward who can overwhelm matchups.   Then there's Greig, the #24 ESPN recruit, who will run the show as their floor general. His combination of athleticism, size, and playmaking should make him one of the toughest guards to contain in Nevada this season.   Returning guard [player_tooltip player_id='1463264' first='Jonny' last='Collins'] also remains a key piece, offering a blend of slashing and perimeter shooting that perfectly complements their new core.   Based on preseason action, this six-man group will be at the heart of Coronado's rotation.   Outside of them, the Cougars will also have [player_tooltip player_id='2407333' first='Cooper' last='Stahl'], [player_tooltip player_id='2407329' first='Angelo' last='Leaureaux'], Corbin Sabate, Brayden Bauman, Eric Hopkins, [player_tooltip player_id='2819205' first='Graceson' last='Snow'], and [player_tooltip player_id='2888920' first='Logan' last='Svendson'] contributing throughout the season.   With their talent, depth, and versatility, Coronado should dominate plenty of teams and be fully prepared for a grueling national-level non-conference schedule. By February, they'll easily be one of the most battle-tested squads in the state.   If they stay healthy and continue trending upward, Coronado is my pick to win the 5A State Title. Which would be the first in program history and the first under Coach Jeff Kaufman.   2. Bishop Gorman - The back to back State Champions would likely love to make it a 3-peat. They are once again loaded with talent and have top prospects at every position.   At the guard spots, the Gaels will look to [player_tooltip player_id='2370258' first='Dino' last='Roberts'], [player_tooltip player_id='2450360' first='Noah' last='Grossman'], [player_tooltip player_id='2374170' first='Dillon' last='Ritchie'], Penn Staker-Brooks, [player_tooltip player_id='2637204' first='Elijah' last='Booker'], [player_tooltip player_id='2877359' first='Aiden' last='Acuna'], [player_tooltip player_id='2813465' first='Logan' last='Lefkowitz'], and [player_tooltip player_id='2086139' first='Tyler' last='Johnson'] to set the tone.   Going into the season, it appeared that Johnson and Roberts would be the starting duo. However, things changed after Johnson took a hard fall at the Halloween Hoops tournament. Fortunately, he is expected to make a full recovery and should return in due time.   In the meantime, his absence leaves a major void. And the rest of the guards will need to step up. Roberts, Grossman and Ritchie will likely assume more ball-handling duties. While Staker-Brooks and Booker can also provide reliable support thanks to their athleticism, activity, and defensive skills.   At forward + center, the Gaels feature [player_tooltip player_id='2654821' first='Braylen' last='Williams'], [player_tooltip player_id='2691549' first='Canon' last='Mullen'] (transfer), [player_tooltip player_id='2618033' first='Gabriel' last='Barisic'] (transfer), [player_tooltip player_id='1965271' first='Hudson' last='Dannels'], [player_tooltip player_id='2047786' first='Kameron' last='Cooper'], and [player_tooltip player_id='1266706' first='Tyler' last='Bright'] (transfer).   Williams, Mullen, Dannels, Cooper, and Bright are all expected to log heavy minutes. Williams impacts the game with his motor and feel. Mullen can hit shots, rebound, and defend. Dannels knocks down triples with ease. Cooper (Gorman's top scoring option), can completely shift a game's momentum when he finds his rhythm from deep. While Bright will be relied upon for interior scoring and rim protection.   Assuming Johnson returns healthy and the rest of the roster settles into their roles, Bishop Gorman is absolutely one of the teams to beat in 5A. And if Coach Grant Rice gets this group clicking at full potential, they'll be right back in the hunt for another State Championship.   But for now, I project them to finish second in the 5A this season.   3. Democracy Prep - The newest kids on the block in 5A will look to turn some heads this season. They're led by Coach Corey Duke, who brought in a strong group of talented transfers. Including [player_tooltip player_id='2468244' first='Jaden' last='Redding'], [player_tooltip player_id='2122232' first='Kaden' last='Arnold'], [player_tooltip player_id='1667943' first='Zyon' last='Harris'], and [player_tooltip player_id='1945840' first='Ien' last='Kirkland'].   Although they lost Josiah Stroghter to Utah Prep. There's no doubt that they have the firepower to compete with the premier teams in 5A.   Expect them to roll out guards [player_tooltip player_id='2374248' first='Dashaun' last='Harris'], [player_tooltip player_id='1529853' first='Tai' last='Coleman'], [player_tooltip player_id='2122232' first='Kaden' last='Arnold'], and [player_tooltip player_id='1667943' first='Zyon' last='Harris']. Dashaun is primed for a breakout sophomore year after averaging 10.6 PPG last season. Coleman (Senior) has a good deal of varsity experience to draw from and can drain both jumpers and 3's. Arnold (another Skyline Prep transfer) is a smooth shooter with creative shot-making ability. And [player_tooltip player_id='1667943' first='Zyon' last='Harris'] is an explosive point guard who can blow by defenders for acrobatic finishes or dunks. Keeping this trio in check will be difficult, as each of them is capable of stuffing the stat sheet on any given night.   Behind them, both Redding and Kirkland can come in and make impacts with their defensive versatility. Giving the Blue Knights a balanced blend of offense and defense.   They'll also have [player_tooltip player_id='2434274' first='Elizjah' last='Scott'], [player_tooltip player_id='2634164' first='Jayden' last='Howard'], [player_tooltip player_id='1667541' first='Mario' last='Allen'], and Ricky Burrell coming off the bench to give the team valuable production. Scott averaged just over 6 PPG last season and excels at maneuvering around defenders to get to the cup. Howard can knock down shots from deep or attack the basket when the opportunity is there. Allen and Burrell will provide energy and effort on both ends of the floor.   On paper, there's a lot to like about this roster. Coach Duke has a group he can trust in tight games, with multiple lineup combinations at his disposal.   Like many teams, their success will ultimately come down to cohesion and communication. But if they lock in and play at the pace they're capable of, expect them to be a legitimate contender.   4. Desert Pines - When I wrote about Desert Pines a month ago, I labeled them a dark-horse candidate in 5A. They return nearly the same roster as last season, graduating only a couple of seniors. However, they will be without [player_tooltip player_id='1965156' first='Mike' last='Taylor'], who unfortunately suffered an injury during football season.   Leading the way for the Jaguars will be [player_tooltip player_id='2374347' first='Aaron' last='McMorran II'], [player_tooltip player_id='1707443' first='Chase' last='Robertson'], and [player_tooltip player_id='2111894' first='Tyler' last='Merto'].   McMorran was one of the top scorers in the entire state last year, and I expect nothing less this season. He's one of the craftiest 2028 guards in the country and can make defenses pay every time they give him space to operate. Robertson (a Branson transfer) provides another two-way weapon—someone who can score at all three levels or defend elusive ball-handlers. Rising wing [player_tooltip player_id='2111894' first='Tyler' last='Merto'] has also had a standout offseason, showcasing notable growth as a shooter, athlete, and defender.   All three of these guys can deliver serious firepower, and they stand around 6'4/6'5, giving Desert Pines excellent size on the perimeter.   The supporting cast also features several players who will need to be accounted for. [player_tooltip player_id='2588076' first='Maleki' last='Sims'] will run some point and has the ability to create easy shots for his teammates or hit his own when needed. Lavelle Lovelace is a downhill combo guard who draws fouls at a solid rate thanks to his shiftiness. [player_tooltip player_id='2812155' first='Mason' last='Robles'] is poised to be their sixth man, bringing scoring bursts and defensive disruption off the bench.   Up front, they have two notable forwards who can help shut down driving lanes. [player_tooltip player_id='1965276' first='Quentin' last='Stewart'] is a 6'7 defender with the size to match up with the league's bigger forwards, while [player_tooltip player_id='2634178' first='Kru' last='Brown'] brings physicality and a high motor to the glass.   By the look of it, Coach Cap Uzan's Jaguars have the pieces to compete with anyone in 5A. And at the moment, I'm predicting they make at least the second round of the playoffs.   5. Mojave - Coach Kejaun Clark and the Mojave Rattlers reached the 5A State Championship last season behind CJ Shaw (now at UCSB). Who was their clear go-to option in big moments.   This year, the scoring and leadership load shifts to [player_tooltip player_id='1465681' first='Curtis' last='Coleman'], [player_tooltip player_id='1668933' first='Phil' last='Gordon'], [player_tooltip player_id='1945831' first='Ty'jir' last='Broxie'], [player_tooltip player_id='1638995' first='Aries' last='Denson'], and [player_tooltip player_id='1794836' first='Jayden' last='Luna'].   Coleman will handle primary point guard duties, running the offense and getting teammates involved. Gordon is a dangerous mid-range shooter who also earns plenty of trips to the line. Luna is an agile combo guard who thrives in transition and can knock down the three. Denson brings more speed and disruption. As he's a threat to jump passing lanes or rip the ball away.   Broxie (Arbor View transfer) has been dominant all preseason, finishing calmly around the rim and dunking with ease. Alongside him is forward [player_tooltip player_id='1571006' first='Devin' last='Thomas'], who adds even more size and can be a defensive game-changer when he locks in.   Another player to watch for will be Ricky Bunch Jr. Who was a reliable defender last year for them, and he averaged 4.2 PPG.   With the combination of speed, shooting, and interior presence, Mojave has the roster to make life difficult for opponents all winter.   While I currently project the Rattlers to finish around 5th in the 5A standings. They're exactly the type of team you don't want to see in the postseason. Athletic, chaotic, well coached, and capable of upsetting a higher seeded team.   6. Liberty - The Liberty Patriots are looking to shake things up this season, despite losing Jalen Parker to SPIRE Academy just a few weeks ago. They will be led by senior PG [player_tooltip player_id='1463230' first='Tyus' last='Thomas']. Who returns to Nevada after playing in Arizona last year.   Thomas will be a vital piece every night, as he'll likely be asked to both score and facilitate. If he can stay steady with his production, especially in the fourth quarter, he has the ability to rally his group and help them pull out tight games.   [player_tooltip player_id='1493480' first='Dante' last='Steward'] will also play a major role in Liberty's success. He was their second-leading scorer last year (behind Jaden Riley), doing much of his damage in the paint while still being able to stretch the floor when needed.   Other key contributors include [player_tooltip player_id='2145851' first='Evan' last='Hilliard'], Tayshawn Caeser, [player_tooltip player_id='2640655' first='Eric' last='Alisca'], [player_tooltip player_id='2128311' first='Taytum' last='Webb'], [player_tooltip player_id='2807203' first='Kobe' last='Kelley'], and [player_tooltip player_id='2147659' first='Daylen' last='Dove'].   [player_tooltip player_id='2145851' first='Evan' last='Hilliard'] is a phenomenal athlete who makes an impact by sprinting the floor and creating easy opportunities. Tayshawn Caeser is a high-IQ guard who uses his deceptive handle to get wherever he wants. [player_tooltip player_id='2640655' first='Eric' last='Alisca'] fits the 3-and-D mold and can heat up quickly from deep. [player_tooltip player_id='2128311' first='Taytum' last='Webb'] brings relentless defense and helps spark transition offense. [player_tooltip player_id='2807203' first='Kobe' last='Kelley'] is another high-energy defender who can knock down shots when needed. And [player_tooltip player_id='2147659' first='Daylen' last='Dove'] plays with great effort and will hit open looks when defenses lose track of him.   Overall, Liberty has depth, defense, and a true lead guard. All ingredients that could help them exceed expectations in 5A.   7. Sierra Vista - The back-to-back 4A State Champions have officially moved up into 5A. Coach Joe Bedowitz has undoubtedly been preparing his group for tougher competition. But with seven seniors graduating last year, this season's squad will feature far more youth on the floor.   Two of their top guards will be juniors [player_tooltip player_id='1965124' first='Jayvion' last='Wall'] and Aliyohn “AJ” Jackson. Wall is a player I've tracked closely throughout the fall, and he's made a noticeable jump. He's asserting himself as a lead option, showing no hesitation when he gets a clean look. His aggressiveness should set the tone for the entire team. And ideally, his confidence opens opportunities for those around him. Jackson is another guard who can help Sierra Vista rack up wins thanks to his scoring ability. He hunts mid-range shots, can pour in triples, and mixes in downhill attacks when defenses overplay him.   Sophomore guard [player_tooltip player_id='2633812' first='Tristian' last='Porter'] is also expected to log major minutes. Like Wall, he's beginning to embrace a bigger role, and I expect him to take meaningful strides if he continues to gain confidence as the season progresses.   In the frontcourt, Sierra Vista will lean on [player_tooltip player_id='3140678' first='Jace' last='Carter'], [player_tooltip player_id='1965069' first='Aiden' last='Reed'], and Samuel Ernest. Carter and Reed in particular will need to elevate their play this year. Especially with several talented forwards transferring into 5A. Carter has showcased his high-flying athleticism these last couple of months. You might even see him throw down a few alley-oops this season. Reed has the potential to become a high-level shot blocker and rebounder, giving the Mountain Lions the interior presence they'll need.   With such a young roster, Sierra Vista is likely to experience some growing pains early on. But by February, expect this team to be far more resilient.   8. Centennial - The Centennial Bulldogs are going to look much different than they did last year. They had multiple key players transfer out this offseason, including Jaxon Price, Bryce Iwuoha, [player_tooltip player_id='1667943' first='Zyon' last='Harris'], and Jayonni Durrough.   Their departures are now in the past, though, and the Bulldogs have turned the reins over to returning seniors Jayden Ceasar, [player_toolttip player_id='2881566' first='Cooper' last='Jenkins'], and Gavin Ahlstrom. Ceasar brings explosiveness on offense, allowing him to leave defenders behind when he hits the gas. Jenkins uses his physicality and athleticism to finish tough shots in the paint. And Ahlstrom is their three-point specialist (someone who can get hot quickly and put points on the board in a hurry).   Beyond their senior core, they will also rely on Rennox Ponce, [player_tooltip player_id='2973250' first='Braylon' last='Burnett'], [player_tooltip player_id='2883873' first='Julio' last='Rivera'], and [player_tooltip player_id='2966647' first='Jerry' last='Anderson']. Ponce and Burnett both have some attacking ability and can apply pressure off the dribble. Rivera looks to get into the paint as well, but he also has a jumper he can break out when needed. Anderson is another quick guard who finds the gaps in the defense.   Even though they may not have the same star power they once had, Coach Karen Weitz consistently gets her teams to play together, compete with intensity, and buy into their roles. Because of that, the Bulldogs should still be capable of giving their best shot against even the most talented teams in the 5A conference.   9. Arbor View - Similar to the Centennial Bulldogs, the Arbor View Aggies saw a large number of players transfer out this offseason. Notable departures include [player_tooltip player_id='1945831' first='Ty'jir' last='Broxie'], Wilbert Townsend, Cassius Britt, and Noah Darden. On top of that, their top two scorers from last year—JT Darden and Sebastian Knox—both graduated.   All six of those players were either starters or key rotation pieces. Meaning Arbor View will be rolling out an almost entirely new lineup this season.   Fortunately, two important returners remain: [player_tooltip player_id='1492605' first='Rylan' last='Hearns'] and [player_tooltip player_id='1765905' first='Dominic' last='Givens']. Hearns will likely be their go-to scorer. He's equipped with a versatile offensive package, able to weave around defenders to finish at the rim or bury shots from deep. Givens, meanwhile, has one of the purest shooting strokes in Las Vegas. He thrives on catch-and-shoot threes and likes to leak out in transition for highlight reel dunks.   Their one-two punch must deliver consistently if the Aggies hope to keep pace with the stronger teams in 5A.   At the other guard spots, Arbor View may turn to [player_tooltip player_id='2676413' first='Jaedon' last='Johnson'], [player_tooltip player_id='2883879' first='Brendan' last='Caputo'], [player_tooltip player_id='2819268' first='Quinn' last='Mickelson'], and [player_tooltip player_id='2675730' first='Isaiah' last='Anderson']. All four bring quickness to the floor, but they are on the smaller side. So it will be essential for them to hustle on defense and make their shots when left open.   This team will need rapid development and strong chemistry to stay competitive within the conference.   Top Returning Scorers   [player_tooltip player_id='1490283' first='Amare' last='Oba'] - 28.2 PPG - Coronado   [player_tooltip player_id='2374347' first='Aaron' last='McMorran II'] - 20.2 PPG - Desert Pines   [player_tooltip player_id='1493480' first='Dante' last='Steward'] - 16.6 PPG - Liberty   [player_tooltip player_id='1529853' first='Tai' last='Coleman'] - 12.6 PPG- Democracy Prep   [player_tooltip player_id='2374248' first='Dashaun' last='Harris'] - 10.7 PPG - Democracy Prep   [player_tooltip player_id='2468244' first='Jaden' last='Redding'] - 9.2 PPG - Democracy Prep   [player_tooltip player_id='2111894' first='Tyler' last='Merto'] - 7.9 PPG - Desert Pines   [player_tooltip player_id='2145851' first='Evan' last='Hilliard'] 7.8 PPG - Liberty   [player_tooltip player_id='1465681' first='Curtis' last='Coleman'] - 7.5 PPG - Mojave   [player_tooltip player_id='1463264' first='Jonny' last='Collins'] - 6.2 PPG - Coronado   [player_tooltip player_id='1668933' first='Phil' last='Gordon'] - 6.1 PPG - Mojave   [player_tooltip player_id='2434274' first='Elizjah' last='Scott'] - 6.1 PPG - Democracy Prep   [player_tooltip player_id='1965124' first='Jayvion' last='Wall'] - 4.8 PPG - Sierra Vista   Taytum Cios-Webb - 4.4 PPG - Liberty   [player_tooltip player_id='2633812' first='Tristian' last='Porter'] - 4.3 PPG - Sierra Vista   Ricky Bunch Jr. - 4.2 PPG - Mojave   [player_tooltip player_id='2812155' first='Mason' last='Robles'] - 4.1 PPG - Desert Pines   [player_tooltip player_id='2640655' first='Eric' last='Alisca'] - 3.6 PPG - Liberty

New Look For 5A (2024-2025 Records Below)