These 6 Players Will Determine Who Wins 5A SWL Title

The 5A Southwestern League title race is heading for a dramatic finish, with just one game left and three teams (Palisade-Grand Junction-Fruita Monument) still in the hunt. Every possession, every matchup and every late game decision will matter. The pivotal showdown is between Palisade and Fruita Monument and the outcome could set up a wild three way tie, with each contender winning a season series. These are the six players who will shape the outcome and ultimately decide who claims the league crown.   Fruita Monument    Wells has been unstoppable all season for Fruita Monument, and that kind of production is what carries teams to league titles. Averaging 24.3 points per game with a season high 51, he's proven he can completely take over when it matters most. His six double doubles show he's not just a scorer but he rebounds, defends and impacts every possession. Wells sets the tone with in your face defense and relentless energy, forcing opponents out of rhythm. When a player can dominate offensively while anchoring the team defensively, it elevates everyone around him     Huskey is the other engine that makes Fruita Monument go. While Wells draws the headlines, Huskey delivers the balance that turns them into a true contender. Averaging 12.2 points per game, he's the perfect 1-2 punch and capable of scoring in key moments and taking pressure off the defense's top focus. When teams load up to stop Wells, Huskey makes them pay. His ability to finish plays, knock down shots and step up in big stretches provides versatility and confidence late in games. That secondary scoring threat is often what separates and could be the factor for a league title    Palisade    Howard has been the steady force for Palisade all season, leading the team with 13.9 points per game. But as the calendar flipped to February, he's elevated his game at the perfect time. Coming off a season high 27 point performance a week ago, Howard is peaking when it matters most. He's not just a scorer either but he impacts every area of the game with rebounding, assists, and steals. His all around presence keeps Palisade balanced and dangerous. When your leading scorer is also your most complete player, that momentum can carry a team to a league title with real confidence     Gingerich has been the perfect complementary piece for Palisade, forming a strong duo alongside Howard. Averaging 11.1 points per game, he understands how to get to his spots and score within the flow of the offense. A true three level scorer, Gingerich can knock down shots from deep, pull up in the midrange, or finish at the rim. What makes him even more valuable is his poise in big moments and he's shown he can step up in the clutch when defenses tighten. That balance and late game confidence give Palisade another weapon teams have to account for    Grand Junction    Lewis only a sophomore is the driving force behind Grand Junction, setting the tone with his team leading 13 points per game. A true shooter with deep range, he stretches defenses the moment he crosses half court. He is also a playmaker who reads the floor well and creates opportunities for teammates. His ability to knock down shots and deliver timely passes makes Grand Junction's offense dangerous and unpredictable. When he's in rhythm, everything opens up and that kind of leadership and versatility is what keeps his team competitive night after night     Weirath is what makes Grand Junction even more dangerous and he's only a sophomore as well. Averaging 12.5 points per game and coming off a season high 21, he's already proving he can rise to the moment. He's a confident scorer who isn't afraid to get downhill, attack the rim and challenge defenders. His ability to slice through coverage and put pressure on the paint forces defenses to collapse, opening up opportunities for others. With his skill set and fearlessness at such a young age, Weirath gives Grand Junction another dynamic weapon and a glimpse of an even brighter future ahead

The 5A Southwestern League title race is heading for a dramatic finish, with just one game left and three teams (Palisade-Grand Junction-Fruita Monument) still in the hunt. Every possession, every matchup and every late game decision will matter. The pivotal showdown is between Palisade and Fruita Monument and the outcome could set up a wild three way tie, with each contender winning a season series. These are the six players who will shape the outcome and ultimately decide who claims the league crown.