Division 2 Section 6 Preview
There is a ton of talented players in Division II Section VI including the state's #1 senior Mitch Lightfoot. The defections to Gilbert Christian certainly hurt the Knights' cause but improves the parody within the section. Top 3 Gilbert Christian…
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Continue ReadingThere is a ton of talented players in Division II Section VI including the state's #1 senior Mitch Lightfoot. The defections to Gilbert Christian certainly hurt the Knights' cause but improves the parody within the section.
Top 3
Gilbert Christian
The returning state champs lost Nate Graville, Jaden Lee, and Dontez Thomas due to transfer and all three losses hurt. However, there was no bigger blow than the loss of 6’4” senior leader Cam Satterwhite due to injury. Regardless the Knights still have their x-factor as 6’9” Mitch Lightfoot is still inside. There may not be a player in all of Division II that can matchup with him around the rim. Add in 6’7” versatile forward Tony Licavoli and you have a frontcourt that will be tough to stop. Gilbert Christian’s success will depend heavily on their guard play and their ability to handle pressure.
Higley
The Knights have good reason for optimism this season. They are a physical group that will rely on their versatility. Higley will be led by 6’4” senior Bryan Battle and 6’4” junior Bryce Gilbert, two multi-skilled forwards that can get things done inside and out. Battle, the more perimeter oriented of the two, will be counted on as a playmaker while Gilbert’s motor and energy will directly tied to his team’s success.
McClintock
Talent has never been a problem for McClintock High School and it won’t this season. 5’11” Amiri Chukwuemeka is their top talent and will enter the year with a chip on his shoulder after being sidelined due to injury the majority of the summer. He will be joined in the backcourt by classmate Malique Washington who, conversely, had a great summer. 6’6” senior Davion Green should be available the entire season this year which will make a big difference. Freshman guard Josh Baker could also make an impact after adjusting to the varsity level. If the Chargers can mesh, they’ve got a chance to have a very nice season.
Players to Watch
Brandon Whittaker 6’7” F 2016 Campo Verde
Tony Licavoli 6’7” PF 2016 Gilbert Christian
Mitch Lightfoot 6’9” PF 2016 Gilbert Christian
Bryan Battle 6’4” SF 2016 Higley
Bryce Gilbert 6’4” F 2017 Higley
Mason Stark 5’8” PG 2017 Marcos de Niza
Davion Green 6’6” PF 2016 McClintock
Amiri Chukwuemeka 5’11” PG 2016 McClintock
Malique Washington 5’11” PG 2016 McClintock
Jake Rueter 6’2” PG 2016 Seton Catholic Prep
Wyatt Lowell 6’9” F 2016 Williams Field