Nevada Gatorade Player Of The Year Race: Early Contenders

The race for Nevada Gatorade Player of the Year is wide open, with multiple players building solid résumés through their play on both ends of the floor. From gaudy stat lines to defining moments in big games, these athletes have consistently risen to the occasion. This multi-part series will break down the top contenders and what separates each from the rest.   Part 1 begins with a group that has set the tone for the discussion.    [player_tooltip player_id='2086139' first='Tyler' last='Johnson'] was Nevada Defensive Player of the Year last season, but he is quickly becoming just as dangerous on the offensive end. His elite speed and ability to hit the jets often leaves opponents in the dust, and he converts contested layups at a high rate. Beyond his driving ability, he has added a reliable mid-range jumper and is a legitimate threat to rise up for a dunk when given a lane. He's notably had great performances against: Santa Margarita, Desert Pines, and Coronado. Overall, Johnson has been rounding out his game and continues to play with his foot on the gas. Expect him to remain a playmaker for the Gaels the rest of the way, and a difficult guard to match up with in the playoffs.     [player_tooltip player_id='2374347' first='Aaron' last='McMorran II'] has made a compelling case for himself despite being just a sophomore. He currently ranks as the third-leading scorer in the state, averaging 23.6 PPG, despite being circled on every opponent's scouting report. The deceptive lefty has already put together several monster performances, including 30 points against Lone Peak (UT), 33 versus Laguna Hills (CA), 29 against Hesperia (CA), and 28 against Clark. I've also liked the way he's been hunting down rebounds (averaging 7.2 RPG) and consistently delivering in clutch moments for the Jaguars. Highlighted by a game-winner against Aquinas and multiple big-time shots against DPAC last week. Taken together, it paints the picture of a player who checks every box you look for in a serious award candidate.   Additional Season Stats - 3.1 APG, 2.9 SPG, .3 BPG     [player_tooltip player_id='1406767' first='Munir' last='Greig'] has been putting together a strong season for the Coronado Cougars. At the moment, he's averaging 16.3 PPG, 8 RPG, 3.3 APG, 1.7 SPG, and 0.4 BPG, and the production matches the eye test. His size, ball-handling ability, and overall athleticism clearly separate him from most opponents on the floor. Greig consistently applies pressure to defenders, effortlessly skirting around them at full speed while maintaining control. I'm also a fan of how frequently he gets to the charity stripe, as he understands how much damage he can do when attacking. With another month still left to make his claim for Gatorade Player of the Year, there's little doubt he'll be firmly in the conversation. Especially if he can help guide the Cougars to a state title.     I wrote about <a href="//generic-entity?number=0">[player_tooltip player_id='1493480' first='Dante' last='Steward']</a> just last week after he erupted for 37 points in Liberty's win over Sierra Vista, and he continues to look fully locked in. His shooting has specifically stood out, and it's clear he's been putting in serious time in the gym. I've also liked how he's turned up the aggression in transition, routinely finishing above the rim with dunks and alley-oops. Steward brings value on both ends of the floor as well, using his length and instincts to alter or block shots defensively. He's a complete, two-way player who continues to trend upward. Expect Steward and the Liberty Patriots to make noise down the stretch of conference play and into the postseason.     [player_tooltip player_id='1490283' first='Amare' last='Oba'] has taken a noticeable leap as Coronado has moved deeper into their schedule. His ability to fill it up is incredibly fun to watch, and his confidence is clearly at an all-time high. Oba can let it fly from beyond the arc (already knocking down 25 three-pointers in 11 games). And he also thrives in transition, where his dunks routinely give Coronado a jolt of energy they feed off of. In addition to scoring, he's been impactful on the defensive end. Using his energy and instincts to limit opposing scorers and force turnovers. Look for the Missouri State commit to keep this momentum rolling. And if he does, he could very well cap off his high school career with some extra hardware.   Additional Season Stats - 13.5 PPG, 4.7 RPG, .9 SPG, .5 APG

The race for Nevada Gatorade Player of the Year is wide open, with multiple players building solid résumés through their play on both ends of the floor. From gaudy stat lines to defining moments in big games, these athletes have consistently risen to the occasion. This multi-part series will break down the top contenders and what separates each from the rest.