3A Guards: Underclassmen Who’s Stock Rose In January

January was a proving ground for some of the Class 3A guards in the state, and they didn't disappoint. Night after night these guards took control of games, filling the stat sheet while leading their teams to crucial wins during the heart of the season. As league races tighten and postseason approaches, these guards have separated themselves as true floor generals, momentum shifters and players every opponent has to game plan for.    Gordon had a January surge that is doing more than filling the stat sheet, it's reshaping how teams view his overall impact. Averaging 18.2 points during an 8–1 stretch, he proved he can be a reliable go to scorer while still driving winning basketball. The three 24 point performances show his offensive ceiling, but the 12 steal game might say even more about his growth. He's impacting games on both ends now, scoring efficiently at the rim, knocking down quick jumpers, creating for teammates and setting the tone defensively. That two way consistency is what's pushing his stock upward     Loya played effectively in January and is elevating his stock because it showed how impactful he can be as a lead guard on a winning team. Helping power Arrupe Jesuit to an 8–0 stretch, he consistently delivered 13.6 points per game while controlling pace and spacing. Despite being 5'9”, he plays bigger by understanding angles, finding open gaps and putting himself in the right spots on the floor. He's a confident shooter who knows how to get to his spots and make defenses pay. That combination of efficiency, IQ and winning impact makes his January stand out     Parra's January performance is putting him firmly on the radar as his role continues to grow at Wray. The freshman's increase in minutes has translated directly into production, highlighted by five double digit scoring games and a season high 20 points. What stands out most is his ability to score while also creating opportunities for others, showing confidence well beyond his years. He's adjusting quickly to the varsity level, making smart reads and capitalizing on chances as they come. That blend of opportunity, efficiency and poise is why his January is elevating his stock moving forward     Artaechevarria was a major reason behind St. Mary's continued success and a clear boost to his stock during play in January. With seven games in double figures and a high of 17 points, he showed consistent scoring while impacting every area of the floor. He rebounds, facilitates and applies constant pressure on defenses with his activity and decision making. Just as important, he's emerging as a trusted leader, someone teammates rely on in key moments. His ability to stay productive while handling big responsibilities has made him a true do it all presence and a difference maker as the season progresses     Sterkle had a recent stretch that is elevating his freshman stock as his role and minutes continue to expand for Lake County. Putting up games of 24, 12, and 13 points, he's shown he can step in and produce when given opportunity. The scoring numbers reflect growing confidence, but just as important is how he's handling increased responsibility on the floor. He's finding rhythm within the offense, making the most of his touches and proving he can be a dependable option. That ability to translate minutes into meaningful production is what's making his January run stand out     Phillips took a clear step forward for both his confidence and his impact at Florence in January. Recording three double digit scoring games, highlighted by a season high 20 points and 9 rebounds, he showed his ability to be productive and physical when it matters most. He's doing more than just scoring, attacking the glass and finishing plays on both ends of the floor. That kind of balanced production points to a player growing into a larger role, and his performance is helping elevate his stock as a reliable contributor moving forward

January was a proving ground for some of the Class 3A guards in the state, and they didn't disappoint. Night after night these guards took control of games, filling the stat sheet while leading their teams to crucial wins during the heart of the season. As league races tighten and postseason approaches, these guards have separated themselves as true floor generals, momentum shifters and players every opponent has to game plan for.