Game of the Year: Part 1
We know that eventually the game of the year will be in the championship game in 6A-1A but for now, this years game of the year in the state of Utah between Utah schools is American Fork vs. Pleasant Grove.…
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Continue ReadingWe know that eventually the game of the year will be in the championship game in 6A-1A but for now, this years game of the year in the state of Utah between Utah schools is American Fork vs. Pleasant Grove. In this 1 vs. 2 battle anything can happen.
This game is highly anticipated and will be a standing room only atmosphere. Last year Pleasant Grove beat AF twice in region play. The combined score for both games was 95-74. In their second matchup last season AF only lost by 3.
American Fork
This year’s AF team is much different from last years team. They have some new players and a new coach. AF currently tied for the best winning percentage record in the state at 17-1. Thier only loss came to an athletic Kearns team that played inspired basketball. They were also playing without Oregon signee Isacc Johnson. The 6’10 W is a game changer on both ends of the court. In last years games Issac averaged 14 points per game.
This year AF is getting great play from Utah Valley University signee Trey Stewart and college prospect Hayden Franson. AF’s collective height could give PG problems.
They key to this game for AF is to stay keep their big’s out of foul trouble. If they can simply muscle Matt Van Komen as far away from the block as possible they can team rebound and limit PG’s possessions.
Pleasant Grove
The PG Vikings are no strangers to big games against big players. They have learned to win with a variety of lineups due to injury. Although this is not their final match-up PG is looking to avenge their state championship loss and it is likely to go through American Fork.
PG is starting to get healthy. Their shooting is a problem for most teams because if defenses push out to far they get exposed to one-on-one situations with 7’4 Matt Van Komen.
In order for PG to pull off the minor upset they will have to limit Trey Stewart from scoring in bunches in transition. They will have to help Van Komen when he is getting back on defense.
Key Players to watch:
Pleasant Grove
Matt Van Komen
Casey Brown
Kawika Akina
Tyler Fairbanks
Max Miller
American Fork
Trey Stewart
Issac Johnson
Hayden Franson
Tanner Cuff
Noah Moeaki