Nevada H.S Preview: Canyon Springs Pioneers
I could probably write an entire article just on the accomplishments of Canyon Springs Head Coach Freddie Banks. A local legend, he was a standout at Valley High, a McDonald’s AA, and the star of the Rebels 1987 Final Four…
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Continue ReadingI could probably write an entire article just on the accomplishments of Canyon Springs Head Coach Freddie Banks. A local legend, he was a standout at Valley High, a McDonald’s AA, and the star of the Rebels 1987 Final Four team. He’s been drafted into the NBA and perhaps even more importantly has created a generational legacy for he and his family. The Banks name is as synonymous with basketball in Las Vegas as the Mannings are for football in New Orleans. In 8 season at Canyon Springs he’s built a dynamic program with a reputation for putting talent on the floor. Yet as he told me when I met with him, he’s accomplished everything that he wants in the game of basketball except for capturing a state championship as a head coach. After a 16 win season, the Pioneers will be reloading behind scoring machine Alexander Spaight, and a host of talented newcomers. In this article PH takes a look at the Canyon Springs Pioneers.
Head Coach:
Freddie Banks 8th Season
Conference: 4A Mountain Northeast
Key Returners:
Alexander Spaight 6’0 PG 2020 (#15PHN 2020) – Spaight is one of the rare combo PG’s that is more effective playing the 1 than the 2. He can definitely score the basketball, however, his ability to provide leadership and generate a tempo for his team to be successful may be his best traits. He sees the floor extremely well and has a knack for getting into the lane and making correct decisions. Assuming CS stays healthy, Spaight has a chance to be among the state leaders in both scoring and assist.
Jhadon Banks 6’5 SF 2020 (#31PHN 2020) – If you were picking a team, and lined every up every player in the State of Nevada, side by side Banks would be the 1st pick. Looks the part of an elite college wing. Great frame terrific run and jump athlete with the quickness and agility to defend multiple positions. He sat out much of last season, dealing with eligibility issues. When he is right, he’s a difference-making wing that provides the type of athleticism rarely seen at the prep level.
Alijah Banks 5’8 PG 2020 – Here’s what I know about Alijah Banks, he’ll be successful in what ever he chooses to do. I dare you to speak with him for 5 minutes and try to not like him. A high IQ, super tough, defense-first guard. Banks is going to get into opposing ballhandlers. A high academic performer, the senior rocks a 3.8 and plans on studying business and marketing at the next level.
Joel Green 6’2 SF 2020 – Green is another one of the returners expected to contribute. He provides , defensive versatility and rebounding. Competitive player expected to be one of the leaders on the team.
Key Newcomers:
Zarius Benson – Moore 6’4 SG 2020 (#30PHN 2020) – Benson -Moore is a transfer from Georgia. By the end of the season I have a feeling a lot of players are going to wish he stayed there. A defensive stopper with the length to defend multiple positions. Moore’s offensive bag includes, jumpers off the bounce, finishing in transition and slashing into the paint. ZBM gives Canyon a terrific 3 headed monster. On the nights that he Spaight and Jhadon Banks are clicking together, Canyon Springs is going to be a tough out.
Lorenzo Moore 6’4 PF 2022 (#23PHN 2020) – Moore is a young player with tons of potential. Humble reserve personality he is just scratching the surface. Good rebounder and willing interior defender, Moore should provide instant size and physicality for the Pioneers.
Jaylen Pollard 6’4 SF 2022 – The Pioneers class of 2022 is perhaps one of the strongest portions of their team. Pollard is another talented player in that class. A physical wing with playmaking ability Pollard has a chance to provide much needed production off the bench.
Top Prospect: (Tie) Spaight/ZBM/Banks/ – I never like to spit hairs , however I feel as if you can make a good case for all three of these players being top prospects. Spaight has the proven track record, the production and plays the most important position on the floor. ZBM is an unknown with the potential to be an elite defender that has a quality offensive skill- set. Banks is a an athletic freak that can impact a game on accident. Hard to distinguish which one of these 3 have the highest ceiling, however if they can find a way to coexist, Canyon has one of the most lethal trios in the state.