Region Preview: 3A West
The 3A West region will be one of the toughest regions in all of 3A. The top 5 teams in this region are all capable of beating each other. Further, the transfer of Jackson Tillapaugh to Wickenberg could be a huge game changer for the group. Andrew Augustine is the early contender for the 3A West player of the year.
Region Preview: 3A West
1. Northwest Christian
Northwest Christian surprised many with their deep run in the state tournament. However, they were long, well-coached, and had shooting. They bring back all three of those things this upcoming season. Their bigs are aggressive and get after it while their guards execute extremely well. Andrew Augustine will be the key to this team’s success. He shoots the basketball extremely well off of the dribble and in catch and shoot situations. Further, he does it well off of screens. The ball does not need to stick to his hands in order for him to score. Due to Augustine and this team’s length, Northwest Christian will be solid this season.
2. Chino Valley
Chino Valley lost a number of key role players. However, Gavin Cluff led the team in scoring and rebounds this past season. Cluff is only 6’3, but he plays much bigger than his size. He is competitive and brings and energy that is contagious to his teammates. In addition to Cluff, Tyler Hixon will play an even bigger role for the team. He is a knockdown shooter from deep who will see more reps with a number of key players leaving the program. Between Cluff and Hixon, this team should be solid.
3. Kingman
Kingman could end up being much better than number 3 in this region. Despite losing their two leading scorers from last season, they bring back plenty of young talent. Elijah Howery is quick and can get to the rim at will. He will be a crucial piece to this team due to his elusiveness and ability to create. He also does a good job of getting his teammates involved. In addition to Howery, Tobias Bagby will most likely lead this team in rebounds and will play important minutes for the group. He will also be in contention to be the leading scorer for the team. Lastly, Jayzon Hundley will be much improved with a year of varsity action under his belt.
3A West: Other Key Contributors
4. Wickenburg
Key Contributors: Jonah Vega-Reid, Gage Hilleshiem, and Jackson Tillapaugh
5. River Valley
Key Contributors: Justin Chinn and Nick Saucedo
6. Odyssey Institute
Key Contributors: Latrell Robinson and Letrey Robinson