4A Gila Awards Projections
The season is right around the corner, so that means it is prediction time! We’ll be looking over 4A Gila and predicting the Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, and Offensive Player of the Year (plus some superlatives).
Player of the Year: Jackson Ruai (Amphi 2019)
Ruai is one of the favorite prospects in the state. He is deadly in transition and a lock down defender. I think Ruai has a great season where he averaged 15-16 ppg, 4-5 apg, and 6-7 rpg. Offensively, Ruai is terrific in transition due to his speed, athleticism, and leaping ability. Every fast break is a chance for a poster dunk.
Offensive Player of the Year: Zionn Sandoval (Palo Verde 2019)
Zionn is a offensive mismatch every possession. He is undersized for a guard but that does not affect his game in the slightest. Zionn is one of the strongest kids in the state, extremely fast, and has great jumping ability. His shot has steadily increased while most of his points come from strong drives to the basket. Sandoval should live on the free throw line as defenders will have to foul him to keep him from getting to the basket.
Defensive Player of the Year: Jackson Ruai (Amphi 2019)
Jackson has to be one of the best defenders in state and I’d argue that he is the best perimeter defender. His length gives him an immediate advantage on defense and he has great instincts to pair with. It is very difficult to get past Ruai and if you somehow manage to get past him, he has a good chance of getting a chase down block due to his relentless pursuit of the ball.
Freshman of the Year: Marcus Coleman (Pueblo 2022)
Coleman is a very impressive prospect and is relatively unknown at this point. This will change as the season comes to an end. Coleman has a grown man body that will put him at an immediate advantage. However, Coleman is not just a great athlete. Coleman is actually a very smart and skilled player. He has tremendous passing vision and finishing ability.