5 Players That Have Surprised This Year

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2895644' first='Malei' last='Atem'], Cottonwood</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Atem is currently averaging 15 PPG and steadily improving. He's been putting up impressive numbers, fueled by his consistent intensity and deliberate approach to the game. Defensively, he's a ball hawk, adept at finishing off defensive possessions. On offense, his athleticism allows him to play above the rim, making a significant difference in crucial moments. Atem has undeniably been a pleasant surprise this season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2218121' first='Kaser' last='Thurgood'], Bear River </strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Thurgood has been a standout player this year, displaying significant next-level potential. He recently achieved a career high and tied the school record with a remarkable 42-point performance. The 6'2 Class of 2026 guard, who is currently under the radar, is poised to become a valuable asset at the next level. His impressive mid-range scoring ability and strong jumper fundamentals are noteworthy. He consistently knocks down 2-4 three-pointers per game and demonstrates excellent playmaking skills when driving to the rim. Thurgood excels at creating space to finish and drawing defenders to open up opportunities for his teammates. Although we should not be surprised because he has been consistently good his entire career, and he is only 100 points away from the 1,000-point club. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1278449' first='Mason' last='Hansen'], Springville</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Hansen is having a monster senior season. Before this season, he had only six 20+ point performances throughout his entire career. Entering high school, Hansen was already a highly anticipated prospect. This year, he has already accumulated over ten 20-point games, and he is on track to achieve even more at his current scoring pace. Hansen has the potential to be a valuable recruit at the next level, as he has demonstrated his ability to perform at a high level and possesses the potential for continued improvement. He comes from a strong background and has the foundational skills of a great shooter with a high basketball IQ. Hansen could be a standout player for an NJCAA program. Despite his high expectations, Hansen has still managed to surprise this season with the significant impact he has made.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2541083' first='Holden' last='Warnick'], Jordan</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Warnick brings positional size to the table as a gem in the Class of 2026 with his 6'6 frame. He is averaging double digits and is surprisingly skilled at many things he might not always get credit for. He is strong and often has to defend much bigger players. He has a calm demeanor and a great pace to his game. He can also spread the floor with precise shooting, and his ability to get shots off quickly without dipping the ball allows him to get good looks against taller players. He is surprisingly good and possesses next-level skills.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2540018' first='Lincoln' last='Norwood'], Westlake</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>While everyone might have been surprised by the success that Westlake has been having, there is a player on the roster who has been equally surprising, and that is [player_tooltip player_id='2540018' first='Lincoln' last='Norwood']. Prior to this season, Norwood had not seen much playing time. However, in the first three games of this season, he surpassed his previous scoring totals, exceeding 32 points. Norwood is a 6'6" inside/outside presence. He can shoot from beyond the arc, hitting 4+ three-pointers in a game. The next game he can rack up 7+ rebounds and still impact the game even with fewer points. Then the following night he can dish out 6+ assists. Norwood has a versatile game that allows him to do a little bit of everything. I really like his chances of making a small college team next year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->