Notable basketball/football players in AZ
High school athletics allows kids to try different sports at different times, experiencing what they like best and working on improving their lives through varying athletics. Football and basketball are both huge in Arizona, and some players are able to excel in both. Here are five players that made big impacts for their schools’ football teams this season, and are balling on the court right now as well:
Robert Burries Jr. – Globe
As a football player, Burries was the top receiver for the Tigers, accumulating nearly 500 yards and 5 TD’s on receptions. He even was the starting punter. However, it appears his biggest impact comes scoring the basketball. As Globe’s starting guard, Burries has led the team to a 10-2 start through 12 games and averaged a state-high 34.1 points per game. You read that right! Burries scores in every way, but specifically has the athleticism to get around other guards at the 2A level and get to the basket.
Tosh Baker – Pinnacle
Baker was one of the state’s best offensive linemen as a junior, leading the Pioneers to the state semifinals and garnering a ton of college interest. He’s a real asset for the defending-champion Pinnacle basketball squad, too. A big body, he mans the paint well, contesting shots and grabbing defensive rebounds to get his multiple high-scoring teammates the ball. Because he plays with a ton of talented seniors, such as Nico Mannion, he doesn’t have to put up those same crazy numbers, but can score from the post and helps the team with put-back lay ups.
Shaun Wahlstrom – Estrella Foothills
The son of coach Derek Wahlstrom on the Wolves’ football team that made the 4A playoffs this year, Shaun has made a huge impact this season on the basketball squad. In an era where more of the game is going toward guard play, Wahlstrom leads his team in both points (21.2) and rebounds (12.4) per game. His 12.4 rebounds, coming from his big size and ability to box out well, lead all the big-school conferences (4A-6A) and have been essential for the team’s winning start to the year.
Torren Union – Marcos de Niza
Union’s football accolades earned him a scholarship to play collegiately. But, he’s also the top scorer on the Padre basketball team. Union is incredibly quick, and excels at getting to the bucket and either finishing or drawing fouls. He also is clearly the vocal team leader, always talking and bring the ball up the floor, and encouraging his teammates. This is the kind of kid dual-sport athletes should aspire to emulate.
Jason Harris – Higley
Harris was a major contributor on the defensive line for Higley, accumulating nine sacks for a team that made the 5A semifinals and gave Centennial its best Arizona-based game. Higley’s hoops team has struggled to a 1-7 start this year, but Harris has been a real stud. Standing a full 6-foot-8, he is able to dominate the paint, despite often being double-teamed in the post. His rebounding and hustle on both ends allow him to average 23 points, nearly 12 rebounds and two blocks a game.