Way Too Early Rankings: 6A
Despite playing in three consecutive state championships, Bingham will have to regroup and reload as they enter the newly created 6A classification. Further, Region 4 looks to be the top conference in the state with some solid talent at the top end with Lone Peak, Pleasant Grove, and American Fork joining Bingham. It would not be surprising in the slightest to see a championship with two Region 4 teams. 6A should bring a lot of excitement due to the new alignment and the high talent level.
Way Too Early Rankings: 6A
1. Lone Peak
Despite losing the state championship last year, Lone Peak is consistently one of the best teams in the state, and at time the nation. By reputation and tradition alone, it is safe to pick them at this spot. However, they do bring back a number of impact players despite losing Dyson Frank. Jackson Brinkerhoff will largely be responsible for protecting the paint and generating offense on the block. Further, Lone Peak brings back one of the most skilled back courts with Steven Ashworth as well as Chantry Ross.
2. Pleasant Grove
Three of Pleasant Grove’s top players from last year’s team return. Namely, they return the biggest man in the state with Matt Van Komen. Van Komen, as a sophomore, averaged a near double-double. The 7’3 also blocked or impacted many shots on the other end of the floor. In addition to Van Komen, Pleasant Grove will bring back talented guard and shooter Casey Brown as well as Kawika Akina.
3. American Fork
American Fork looks like the real deal. They bring back long and talented Isaac Johnson. Johnson will undoubtedly be the leader of this team. The big man is a knock down shooter who has a game that will translate greatly to the next level. In addition to Johnson, the team brings back key role players and contributors in Rob Crowther, Zach McWhorter, and Trey Stewart. American Fork has more than enough talent to win the state title. However, like Pleasant Grove, Lone Peak, and Bingham. who are on this list; they will have to survive the toughest region in the state. Region 4 will be an absolute dog fight.
4. Bingham
Bingham has played in the state championship the last 3 years and won 2 of them. However, they have quite a few of talented players departing. With that said, they should be in a position to regroup nicely. Even though this group will lack the experience, a couple of the key contributors to watch on this team are Brayden Cosper and Dax Mline. In addition to Cosper and Mline, Riverton received a big, figuratively and literally transfer in Brock Anderson. This group should reload rather than rebuild in this upcoming season.
5. Hillcrest
Hillcrest made a solid run last year in the state tournament. Although they lost their two leading scorers from last season, they bring back a solid core of returners. Bassel Tekarli will undoubtedly be the leader of this group. His play will be crucial to their success, especially while others figure out their new roles. In addition to Tekarli, Tyson Flores and Brox Ashby Brox Ashby 6'0" | PG Hillcrerst | 2020 State UT will see increased production and opportunities this season.
Watch List
Copper Hills, Kearns, Davis, Fremont, West Jordan