Final Nevada Gatorade Player of the Year Watch List

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In this article, I feature the final ten players on my Nevada Gatorade Player of the Year Watch List. Each of them has been turning heads all season long while helping their teams secure key victories.<br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1953886"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-697646681b335"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='1953886' first='Connor' last='Sheridan'] is easily one of the most electrifying players in the state this season. At 6'9 he has the speed and handles to go coast to coast with it. And he's thrown down a number of insane dunks that puts some power behind. In addition to his offensive skillset, he is a disruptive defender who is averaging 1.2 blocks a game. Plus he grabs rebounds at a high rate. With the playoffs ahead, he's sure to keep it going. And he'll be a matchup nightmare for everyone.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Additional Season Stats - 10.9 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 2.0 APG, 70 FG %</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1741167"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-697646681b3f7"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='1741167' first='Kade' last='Snyder'] has been putting up impressive numbers in Reno this year. The senior power forward does an excellent job of using his frame, footwork, and instincts to generate efficient offense around the rim, while also proving to be a capable shooter from mid-range and the perimeter. His top scoring performances include 28 points against Reno and 26 against both Hug and Edison. On the defensive end, he plays with physicality and consistently gives opponents problems with his length, strength, and positional discipline.<br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Season Stats - 19.4 PPG, 9 RPG, 3.2 APG, 1.6 SPG, .9 BPG</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1962969"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-697646681b0aa"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='1962969' first='Ethan' last='Inocencio'] has stats have been near the top of the 4A charts for the Palo Verde Panthers this year. He is averaging 18.8 PPG and does so by getting to his spots with ease. Many of his buckets come off of assertive moves and he shows reach touch from both inside and outside the 3-point line. Inocencio has also put his PG skills on display, averaging 3.4 APG. Thanks to the attention that he draws and his IQ. With Palo Verde still very much in the hunt for a state title, keep an eye out for him. <br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Additional Season Stats - 2.5 SPG, 50 3PM</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1768793"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-697646681b273"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='1768793' first='Bryce' last='Stephens'] has been on an offensive tear this season. He is assertive with the ball and gets downhill in a hurry when he catches defenders on their heels, consistently converting tough finishes through contact and capitalizing on and-one opportunities. Two of his best performances came against Bishop Manogue and Churchill County, where he poured in 26 points in each matchup. Stephens does not take possessions off on the defensive end either, averaging just shy of three steals per game. Considering his consistent impact on both ends of the floor, he is unquestionably a legitimate contender.<br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2025 Season Stats - 18.7 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 3.7 APG, 2.2 SPG, 40 3PM</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2356155"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-697646681b1a7"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='2356155' first='Sheldon' last='Jacobson'] is a phenomenal shooter who never hesitates to pull the trigger when he gets a quality look, capable of burying multiple three-pointers over the course of a game. He also showcased his athleticism earlier this season at the Legacy Tip-Off Classic with a thunderous tomahawk dunk. In addition to his scoring prowess, he is a relentless defender who consistently creates turnovers. All in all, he is a very complete player, and it will be fun to watch him perform in the postseason.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Stats - 16.6 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 3.8 APG, 2.8 SPG, 1 BPG, 25 3PM<br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2477281"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-697646681b4b8"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">While Hunter is just a freshman, he's earned his spot on this list by competing fiercely and helping lead the Lions to a winning season. He is a constant scoring threat on the offensive end, and his quickness gives him a clear advantage against even the most disciplined defenders. His confidence further separates him, as he wants the ball when the lights are brightest. Hunter is also a disruptive playmaker on defense, capable of picking his opponent's pocket when they get careless. <br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Currently, he's averaging 20.8 points per game, which ranks 10th in the state.<br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2047786"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69765d7bb0251"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='2047786' first='Kameron' last='Cooper'] has been Gorman's top marksman this season. He consistently buries triples from the corner and wing, using textbook shooting mechanics to get it done. On the defensive end, he leverages his wingspan and size to effectively contest and contain opposing guards. Cooper will be relied upon to continue stepping up for the Gaels as the season winds down, and he's another player who can significantly bolster his case during the playoff push.<br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2122232"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69766ad329a63"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='2122232' first='Kaden' last='Arnold'] has been the #1 option on Democracy Prep this season. The combo guard is shifty when he wants to be, and can get to the cup if there's enough of a crack in the defense. Arnold is also a reliable 3-point shooter, making him dangerous to leave unattended beyond the arc. On the defensive end, he uses his awareness and athleticism to consistently disrupt opposing guards. Although the Blue Knights have come up short in several close contests, Arnold has continued to compete at a high level and give maximum effort on both ends.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">2025 Season Stats - 17.6 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 1.9 SPG<br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2302752"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69767097d31d0"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">I had a feeling [player_tooltip player_id='2302752' first='Elijah' last='Outlaw McDaniel'] would have a breakout season under new head coach Devin Matthews, and the 6'5” senior has done exactly that. He is currently averaging 20.1 points per game while helping lead the Trailblazers to a 13–6 record. Outlaw McDaniel can score from all three levels and is difficult to contain due to his slick footwork, strength, and attacking mindset. Beyond his scoring, he also makes a consistent impact on the defensive end, jumping passing lanes and sending shots into the stands with timely blocks. Overall, he has developed into a highly versatile two-way threat and has made significant strides since last season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Additional Season Stats - 8.1 RPG, 1.4 APG, 2.1 SPG, 1.0 BPG</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1895435"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69766f1c0fbd1"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='1895435' first='Dashel' last='Wiley'] has been a workhorse for the Faith Lutheran Crusaders. Offensively, he thrives when he catches defenders out of position, and his high release point allows him to knock down tough, contested shots. Wiley is also effective at the free-throw line, fearlessly attacking the rim to draw contact and earn trips to the stripe. On the defensive end, he is a vital presence in the paint, where he consistently alters shots and records blocks. With several notable matchups ahead in the final weeks of the season, expect Wiley to bring his A-game.<br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->