Region Preview: 5A Union
The 5A Union region should have most depth than last year. However, the top tier teams in the 5A Union region are still at another level comparative to the rest. Fairfax and Carl Hayden should be the top two teams in the region with the rest looking up to them. With that said, there is plenty of athleticism in this league. Thus, there is always the potential for an upset.
Region Preview: 5A Union
1. Fairfax
Fairfax is going to be led by one of the most versatile prospects in the state as well as in this region in Donovan Reagan. The 6’4 SG does everything it takes to win games for Fairfax. In addition to being one of the statistical leaders in every category for Fairfax last year, he especially demonstrated his toughness and desire to win on the glass as he averaged nearly 10 rebounds per game. With Reagan filling the state sheet and others taking on new roles, Fairfax should sit atop the 5A Union region by season’s end.
2. Carl Hayden
Carl Hayden also has an extremely versatile player who should challenge Reagan for region player of the year. Isaiah Rhymes continues to grow skill wise and height wise. He is capable of playing on the block as well as the perimeter. His ability to make impact plays will also keep Carl Hayden in games. If Carl Hayden is able to find some keep role players to assist Rhymes, this team has plenty of potential due to all of the things Rhymes is capable of bringing to the table. Keep an eye on Carl Hayden in the 5A Union region and in 5A in general.
3. Independence
Independence should be much improved comparative to last year. Like Carl Hayden and Fairfax, they have a lengthy wing who does it all for them. Emad Elniel can score the basketball in an array of ways and provides great length and athleticism for the team. In addition to Elniel, the group brings back their leading scorer, De’Shawn Pearson. Pearson is tough and can create scoring opportunities for himself. If this group can find more consistency from their role players, they have the potential to be really solid as well.
5A Union: Other Key Contributors
4. Camelback
Key Contributors: William Rhymes
5. Glendale
Key Contributors: Qua’Jua Muldrow