Region Preview: 5A Region 5
The 5A Region 5 is one of the most deep regions in 5A. While Bountiful looks to be at the head of the pack, Box Elder and Woods Cross are not far behind. Further, Viewmont will be solid once again while Roy will look to be improved while riding the coat tails of youthful talent in Kobe Schriver.
1. Bountiful
Bountiful brings back one of the most balanced and skilled teams in 5A. This group has shooters all over the court and guys who are able to get to the rim at will. Cameron Chism is a huge part of this as he is one of the best shooters in the state. He can let it fly as well as anyone. This enables the rest of the team to create as there is very little help side.
In addition to Chism, Boy Boy Whaley is a force to be reckoned with. He is one of the most versatile prospects in 5A despite his youth. He is a capable shooter. He is able to hit it at a high enough level that the opposing team has to respect his shooting ability. With that said, his biggest strength is his ability to attack the rim. He has good footwork and attacks the rim at a high level. Further, he finishes it at a high level.
Moreover, Isaac Kime and Brig Willard were two of the top performers for this team last year. Bountiful has the luxury of bringing them back as well. While it is hard to imagine anyone knocking off Olympus, this team might have the best chance to do it.
2. Box Elder
This group had a strong showing last season. Despite losing their leading scorer from last year, Box Elder returns plenty of promise. The primary prospect whom opponents will need to focus on in order to beat Box Elder is Tyson Madsen.
Madsen was the second leading scorer for the team. His ability to score the basketball from an array of spots and create for his teammates will make him a tough prospect to guard. The key for the opposition will be to slow him down as he will be without a doubt the guy who is able to make the biggest impact for this team.
In order for this team to maximize their potential, someone else will need to step up and aid in the scoring. A couple of prospects to keep an eye on who have the potential to step up and make a huge impact are: Ronnie Smith, Parker Buchanan, and Conner Stevenson.
3. Woods Cross
While Woods Cross did not have a strong showing last year, they are in a good spot to be successful this upcoming season as they are bringing back their top prospect from last season. While others might catch up, this will certainly help the group in the early stages of the season.
Dax Gorringe led the team in scoring, assists, and steals. His ability to create for himself and others will make him a difficult prospect to guard this upcoming season. Expect Gorringe to be able to score the basketball at a higher level as well. He shot it well from deep and will have a year of experience to aid him in being even more efficient.
In addition to Gorringe, Jake Howe scored the ball well from three last year. His ability to let it fly from deep will aid him in stretching the floor for Woods Cross. Expect this team to be much improved compared to last season.