Palisade was the surprise team of the year as they finished with a 23-3 record. Their leading scorer was Hunter Howard Hunter Howard 5'9" | CG Palisade | 2026 State CO , as he put up 13.9 points and 6.8 rebounds a game. He also showed that he could get it done defensively as he played the passing lanes and got his hands on the ball coming up with 3.1 steals a game. He came alive in the second half of the season. He shot the 3-ball relatively well and did a bit of everything for Palisade to have a successful year. He’s a stock riser with his play on the year, and his play could not go overlooked much longer. Solid year.  

Howard was the best player on the floor for Palisade, impacting the game in multiple ways. He finished with 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 steals, showcasing his ability to contribute on both ends. Offensively he attacked with confidence and found ways to score when his team needed it most. Defensively he was just as effective, jumping passing lanes and creating turnovers that tried to shift momentum. His activity, awareness and leadership stood out throughout the game, giving Palisade a steady presence in a hard fought battle

Howard has been the driving force for Palisade all season, putting up 14 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. His scoring versatility allows him to attack from multiple spots on the floor, while his presence on the boards creates second chance opportunities and helps control the pace. Beyond the stats Howard’s leadership and poise under pressure set the tone for his teammates. As the playoffs heat up, his ability to make key plays on both ends of the floor will be vital to Palisade’s push for a deep run

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

Hunter Howard Hunter Howard 5'9" | CG Palisade | 2026 State CO is in the drivers seat of this undefeated Palisade squad, averaging 13.3 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 3.1 APG, and 3.1 SPG. Howard is a 5’9 combo guard who confidently navigates his way through defenses to kick to an open shooter or attack the rim. One of Howard’s most slept on attributes is his mid- range game, where he looks comfortable on the hardwood on both ends of the ball.

Howard continues to be an influential guard with Palisade given his quickness with the ball, adept at getting into the paint for finishes around contests. Excellent operating off of two feet, the guard is dependable operating within the halfcourt flow, typically getting his best looks off the rip through. As one of the most dependable shooters for this group and within this league’s context, opposing defenses are forced to respect that gravity. That same quickness transfers over to the defensive end, adept at containing opposing playmakers at the point of attack. Bringing a uniquely versatile shotmaking profile, the guard has one of the more dependable floaters at the 6A level, comfortable from the baseline or in the middle of the paint. 

Howard took major strides between freshman and sophomore seasons at Palisade, cementing himself as a premier guard in that side of the state. He brings a tight handle to be a dependable playmaker against aggressive opposing defenses. Improving as a decisionmaker, Howard has shown upside as a lead guard, particularly thanks to his ability to pressure the rim. Progressing from 4.7 to 13 points per game with Palisade, keep tabs on the guard to set the precedent for Palisade on both ends. 

Howard’s dependable handle allows him to efficiently survey the floor for the next play. Active making the extra pass versus pressure, he brings a dependable pivot game to maneuver around the opponent. Part of his value comes from rim pressure, effectively putting in floaters above contests. While off ball, he looks to keep the floor spaced evenly within the halfcourt, although he is quick taking away space while attacking the rim.