The 2021-2022 high school boys basketball season gets underway this week for 6A, 5A and 4A teams after the conclusion of the football season this past weekend. To prepare fans for the upcoming season, the Deseret News has put together capsules for every team in 6A. Every coach was invited to participate and submit information.
The region rankings are based on coaches preseason projections.
There are five new head basketball coaches in 6A this year: Mike Russell (Syracuse) and Christian Wouden (West Jordan).
Here are the 6A teams and players to watch this upcoming season.
Region 1
1. Davis Darts
Head coach: Chad Sims (eighth year).
2020-2021 record: 22-4 (first in Region 1 with a 13-1 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 7 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Beat Westlake, 60-55, in the 6A championship.
Returning starters: Four.
Returning contributors:
- Rex Sunderland, G, Sr. — 13.1 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 3.5 apg, 2.7 spg.
- Henry Ihrig, F, Sr. — 8.5 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 2.0 apg, 1.0 spg.
- Tate Garff, F, Sr. — 1.3 ppg.
- Max Painter, F, Sr. — 4.3 ppg, 2.6 rpg.
- Sawyer Cottrell, F, Sr. — 2.6 ppg.
- Colby Sims, G, Sr. — 9.9 ppg, 2.2 rpg, 2.4 apg, 2.0 spg.
- Cole Mullen, C, Sr.
Coach comment: “We have some senior leadership and experience. With hard work and consistent play on both ends of the floor we look to have a successful season.”
2. Farmington Phoenix
Head coach: Kasey Walkenhurst (fourth year).
2020-2021 record: 19-8 (first in Region 5 with a 9-1 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 4 in 5A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Lehi, 61-57, in the 5A championship.
Returning starters: One.
Returning contributors:
- Collin Chandler, G, Sr. — 22.4 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 2.8 apg, 1.4 spg.
- Paul Beattie, F, Soph. — 2.9 ppg, 1.7 rpg.
Coach comment: “We will be replacing a lot of senior leadership this year with a very young group of kids. Collin Chandler, Devin Day and Tyler Larson will be our only seniors and will have to carry the load early in the season to help the young guys catch up. Once they do, we should be a good team this year and will look to make another run in the state tournament.”
3. Fremont Silverwolves
Head coach: Corey Melaney (13th year).
2020-2021 record: 13-9 (third in Region 1 with a 10-4 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 13 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to American Fork, 67-45, in the 6A second round.
Returning starters: Five.
Returning contributors:
- Dakota Argyle, F, Sr. — 13.5 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 1.4 apg, 1.2 spg.
- David Calvert, C, Jr. — 10.2 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 0.8 spg.
- Braden Flinders, G, Jr. — 9.6 ppg, 2.1 rpg, 1.5 apg, 0.6 spg.
- Hunter Hansen, G, Soph. — 11.0 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 1.3 apg, 0.8 spg.
Coach comment: “We are excited for the upcoming season. We have some really great kids who enjoy playing basketball with each other. We hope to get better each day and look forward to a very tough Region 1 schedule.”
4. Layton Lancers
Head coach: Kelby Miller (13th year).
2020-2021 record: 15-8 (second in Region 1 with a 12-2 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No, 10 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Davis, 41-39, in the 6A second round.
Returning starters: One.
Returning contributors:
- Mitch Johnson, Sr. — 2.2 ppg, 0.7 rpg.
- Connor Wilson, F, Sr. — 3.8 ppg, 1.2 rpg, 0.7 apg.
- KJ Miller, G, Soph. — 4.6 ppg, 0.9 rpg, 1.2 apg, 0.6 spg.
- Mekhi Martin, G, Soph. — 3.7 ppg, 1.9 rpg, 2.4 apg, 0.6 spg.
- Brighton Palmer, F, Sr.
Coach comment: “We are excited for another season of Layton High basketball. This group’s style of play is going to be very different than the groups that we have had in the past seasons. It is a very talented group with not a ton of varsity experience. They have put in a lot of work this offseason to be ready for the grind of a tough preseason and region schedule. Ultimately, our success will come down to our ability to buy in to the system and to trust each other to play the right way.”
5. Weber Warriors
Head coach: Landon Cosby (third year).
2020-2021 record: 12-11 (fourth in Region 1 with a 9-5 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 15 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Pleasant Grove, 78-48, in the 6A second round.
Returning starters: One.
Returning contributors:
- Cannon DeVries, Sr., G — 12.9 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 5.4 apg, 2.1 spg.
- Tukker Higgs, Sr., G — 2.9 ppg, 1.5 rpg.
- Hunter Schenck, So., G — 1.6 ppg.
Coach comment: “We will look to establish a defensive identity. Getting stops will allow us to get out in transition on offense. Our group is very competitive and together. We have to find a way to win close games.”
6. Syracuse Titans
Head coach: Mike Russell (first year).
2020-2021 record: 7-17 (fifth in Region 1 with a 5-9 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 22 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Skyridge, 83-58, in the 6A second round.
Returning starters: One
Returning contributors:
- Brock William, G, Sr. — 10.0 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 2.2 apg, 1.2 spg
- Kaden Ericksen, G, Jr. — 6.6 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 1.4 apg, 1.3 spg
- Brandon, Clark, G, Sr. — 8.4 ppg, 2.3 rpg, 1.5 apg, 0.5 spg
7. Clearfield Falcons
Head coach: Curtis Hulse (17th year).
2020-2021 record: 1-19 (eighth in Region 1 with a 1-13 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No, 26 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Did not qualify.
Returning starters: Three.
Returning contributors:
- Austin Mitchell, C, Jr. — 5.2 ppg, 4.6 rpg.
- Dawson Gardner, F, Sr. — 4.5 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 0.9 apg, 0.7 spg.
- Lincoln Church, G, Jr. — 2.3 ppg, 0.8 rpg, 0.7 apg.
- Braylen Carlson, F, Jr. — 1.9 ppg, 0.7 rpg.
- Tanner Hittle, G, Jr..
- Coach comment: “Great group of young men, really enjoy being around them. They are working really hard and want to have a good year. Have a number of guys that played varsity basketball last year. Excited to see what happens.”
Region 2
1. Cyprus Pirates
Head coach: Tre Smith (eighth year).
2020-2021 record: 15-9 (tied for second in Region 2 with a 6-4 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 11 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Syracuse, 62-55, in the 6A first round.
Returning starters: Five.
Returning contributors:
- Quentin Meza, PG, Jr. — 20.9 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 6.3 apg, 1.1 spg.
- Justus Jackson-Fobbs, F, Jr. — 11.2 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 0.9 apg, 0.7 spg.
- Mj Tia, F, Sr. — 9.3 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 2.0 apg, 1.8 spg.
- Diego Mulford, PG, Soph. — 10.8 ppg, 0.8 rpg, 0.9 apg, 0.7 spg.
- Drysten Heard, F, Sr. — 4.0 ppg, 1.2 rpg.
- Spies Tia, F, Jr. — 4.4 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 1.5 apg, 0.8 spg.
Coach comment: “Looking forward to a fun, yet challenging year. We have a tough schedule built into our preseason and our only goal is to be playing our best basketball in February. We have a great group of kids that will be very impactful. We have a long way to go until we get to where we believe we should be as a team and program.”
2. Kearns Cougars
Head coach: Dan Cosby (13th year).
2020-2021 record: 16-9 (first in Region 2 with a 7-3 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 12 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Roy, 60-59, in the 6A first round.
Returning starters: Four
Returning contributors:
- Ivr’son Lavizzo, G, Sr. — 6.9 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 2.7 apg, 1.5 spg.
- Javon Lee, G, Sr. — 7.6 ppg, 1.2 rpg, 1.0 apg, 0.7 spg.
- Amare Ames, G, Sr. — 10.2 ppg, 2.0 rpg, 1.4 apg, 1.0 spg.
- Gott Daw, G, Sr. — 9.2 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 0.9 apg, 1.0 spg.
- Pual Wanthi, G, Sr. — 1.3 ppg, 0.9 rpg, 0.6 apg.
- Kapeli Smith, G, Jr. — 2.1 ppg, 0.9 rpg.
Coach comment: “We are excited to welcome back seven seniors who all look to make a significant impact on the floor. With our big man Jonny Gasologa going down last month with a torn ACL, we will be very small, but quick. You can’t replace him, but we will try to do some other things that will compensate for his loss. I am looking forward to this season to see if their work ethic has paid off as we plan to put a highly competitive and fun to watch team on the floor.”
3. Taylorsville Warriors
HeadcCoach: Bernie Graziano (sixth year).
2020-2021 record: 10-11 (tied for second in Region 2 with a 6-4 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 17 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to West Jordan, 49-46, in the 6A first round.
Returning starters: Two.
Returning contributors:
- James Gavin, F, Sr. — 10.7 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 1.3 apg, 1.4 spg.
- John Gavin, G, Sr. — 13.3 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 1.5 apg, 1.2 spg.
Coach comment: “We are excited to get the season started and have scheduled a strong preseason schedule in hopes of preparing for us region. We have a good group of seniors with James Gavin, John Gavin, Luke Johnson and Keaton Allen. Junior Moroni Johnson is expected to help us this season as well. Our region has a lot of parity and should be competitive like last year.”
4. Hunter Wolverines
Head coach: Harold Moleni (third year).
2020-2021 record: 10-10 (fifth in Region 2 with a 5-5 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 18 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Weber, 76-43, in the 6A first round.
Additional info not provided.
5. Roy Royals
Head coach: Scott Hunt (third year).
2020-2021 record: 9-14 (sixth in Region 1 with a 4-10 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 21 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Bingham, 65-43, in the 6A second round.
Returning starters: One.
Returning contributors:
- Beau Belnap, PG, Jr. — 3.0 ppg, 0.8 rpg, 0.5 spg.
- Spencer Bessinger, F, Sr. — 1.0 ppg, 0.7 rpg.
- Dom Anguinao, G, Sr. — 3.3 ppg, 0.9 rpg.
- Jalen Rose, F, Jr.
- Elijah Sowards, F, Jr.
- Michael Dickerson, G, Sr.
- Jayden Spencer, F, Jr.
- Brody Nebeker, G, Jr.
- Sean Clay, G, Sr.
Coach comment: “I am excited to see our continued development and progression as a team this season. We have been committed to improving in all areas with a focus on fundamentals and an improved focus on the details of success. We believe that as we commit to toughness, team play, consistent effort and being disciplined we will be a competitive program this season. We respect all of our opponents, especially those in our new Region 2. We know it will be a tough contest each night we play. We’ve got great kids that love to play the game with enthusiasm so we look forward to this season.”
6. West Panthers
Head coach: Duane Bourdeaux (second year).
2020-2021 record: 4-16 (sixth in Region 3 with a 1-9 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No 23 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Layton, 71-53, in the 6A first round.
Additional info not provided.
7. Granger Lancers
Head coach: Stephen Tidwell (third year).
2020-2021 record: 2-19 (sixth in Region 2 with a 0-10 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No, 25 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Did not qualify.
Returning starters: Two.
Returning contributors:
- Tafito Lapana, F, Sr. — 1.4 ppg.
- Isaac Lemus, G, Sr. — 6.6 ppg, 1.9 rpg, 0.9 apg.
- Jake Turcsanski, G, Sr. — 2.7 ppg, 1.3 rpg.
- Collin Tidwell, G, Sr. — 1.1 ppg.
- Abdulqani Abdi, G, Jr. — 2.0 ppg.
- Noor Aweyso, G, Jr. — 2.3 ppg, 1.4 rpg.
- Cooper Olsen, F, Jr.
Coach comment: “The players are working hard and are excited to compete. We hope to play the right way and represent Granger High School in a positive way.”
Region 3
1. Bingham Miners
Head coach: Kyle Straatman (third year).
2020-2021 record: 17-6 (first in Region 3 with a 10-0 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No, 5 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to American Fork, 55-54, in the 6A quarterfinals.
Returning starters: Two.
Returning contributors:
- Kam Dupaix, F, Sr. — 8.2 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 1.5 apg, 1.2 spg.
- Devin Carlson, F, Sr. — 8.0 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 1.0 apg, 0.6 spg.
- Tyler Newbold, F, Sr. — 2.3 ppg, 1.9 rpg, 0.8 apg.
- Luke Leatherwood, G, Sr. — 3.0 ppg, 1.5 rpg, 0.5 apg.
Coach comment: “I am very excited to coach this group. We have some great senior leadership to go along with some very talented younger players. We have some very versatile players who will allow us to play a few different small and big lineups. They work very hard in the weight room, classroom and court and I am looking forward to seeing all of that hard work pay off.”
2. Copper Hills Grizzlies
Head coach: John Watkins (third year).
2020-2021 record: 13-6 (second in Region 3 with an 8-2 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 8 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Lone Peak, 56-53, in the 6A second round.
Returning starters: Two.
Returning contributors:
- McCoy Langston, G, Sr. — 13.7 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 2.4 apg, 0.7 spg.
- Quincy Hills, G, Sr. — 10.5 ppg, 2.0 rpg, 4.2 apg, 1.5 spg.
- Luke Moir, F, Sr. — 2.6 ppg, 1.5 rpg.
Coach comment: “I am excited for this season and to see how this year’s team comes together as a unit.”
3. Mountain Ridge Sentinels
Head coach: Scott Briggs (third year).
2020-2021 record: 12-13 (sixth in Region 7 with a 3-9 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 15 in 5A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Olympus, 78-50, in the 5A second round.
Returning starters: Four.
Returning contributors:
- Jake Fitton, G, Sr. — 11.0 ppg, 1.7 rpg, 2.4 apg, 1.1 spg.
- Merrick Sherwood, G, Sr. — 10.2 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 1.3 apg, 1.3 spg.
- Brantyn Van Dyke, G, Sr. — 5.0 ppg, 1.9 rpg, 2.9 apg, 1.7 spg.
- Jackson Moller, G, Sr. — 8.1 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 1.2 apg, 0.9 spg.
Coach comment: “With six returning seniors and a lot of playing experience returning, there is extra excitement about Mountain Ridge basketball for the upcoming season. The Sentinels will play hard and look to compete every game. We know that Region 3 will be difficult and tough, but we are looking forward to the challenge.”
4. Riverton Silverwolves
Head coach: Skyler Wilson (eighth year).
2020-2021 record: 11-11 (tied for third in Region 3 with a 4-6 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No, 14 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Herriman, 46-43, in the 6A first round.
Returning starters: Three.
Returning contributors:
- Mackay Hostetter, G, Sr. — 7.1 ppg, 1.7 rpg, 0.9 apg, 0.9 spg.
- Logan Dunfield, F, Jr. — 4.7 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 1.2 apg, 0.6 spg.
- Mitch Applegate, G, Sr. — 4.4 ppg, 1.2 rpg, 1.0 apg, 0.6 spg.
- Stratton Johnson, G, Jr. — 4.2 ppg, 1.4 rpg, 0.5 apg, 0.6 spg.
Coach comment: “This group of players has worked very hard in the offseason on developing a team-first approach that I think will pay off in the upcoming season. We have great team leaders who have created a culture where no one cares who gets individual credit or accolades. These kids play for each other, which makes them fun to coach! We will need to take advantage of our talented backcourt and play a fast-paced style. I know our players are excited about the opportunity to represent Riverton High School this season!”
5. West Jordan Jaguars
Head coach: Christian Wouden (first year).
2020-2021 record: 9-10 (tied for second in Region 2 with a 6-4 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 16 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Westlake, 70-57, in the 6A second round.
Returning starters: Four.
Returning contributors:
- Boston Farmer, G, Sr. — 5.3 ppg, 1.5 rpg, 3.2 apg.
- Esafe Taufahema, C, Sr. — 11.5 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 1.0 apg, 0.7 spg.
- Logan Prince, F, Sr. — 10.1 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 1.7 apg, 0.6 spg.
- Brandon Christensen, G, Sr. — 8.6 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 1.2 apg, 0.6 spg.
Coach comment: “I am extremely excited to start my first year as the head coach at West Jordan. I couldn’t ask for a better group of players to coach. We have a great core of returning players with amazing senior leadership who have been playing together since they were in the fifth grade. We are ready to battle and play hard every night. Go Jags!”
6. Herriman Mustangs
Head coach: Lance Gummersall (third year).
2020-2021 record: 9-16 (tied for third in Region 3 with a 4-6 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 19 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Corner Canyon, 72-58, in the 6A second round.
Returning starters: One.
Returning contributors:
- Ike Palmer, G, Soph. — 1.4 ppg, 1.0 rpg, 0.5 spg.
- Malcolm Johnson, G/F, Soph.
Coach comment: “The Mustangs are young and hoping to make some noise as the underdog. Without a lot of experience the Mustangs will be focused on playing as hard as possible and learning who they are throughout the season. It’s going to be a fun season.”
Region 4
1. Corner Canyon Chargers
Head coach: Dan Lunt (sixth year).
2020-2021 record: 18-8 (third in Region 4 with a 5-5 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 3 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Davis, 63-54, in the 6A semifinals.
Returning starters: Two
Returning contributors:
- Max Toombs — 10.0 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 2.4 apg, 1.4 spg.
- Tyler Burraston — 1.9 ppg, 0.5 rpg.
- Brody Kozlowski — 2.4 ppg, 1.0 rpg.
- Tate Staley — 5.2 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 2.4 apg, 1.0 spg.
- Jaxon Roberts.
- Jaiden Feroah.
- Ty Neibuar.
- Taylor Harris.
Coach comment: “Really like this team. They defend well and can spread the floor with their shooting. Excited to get going.”
2. American Fork Cavemen
Head coach: Ryan Cuff (fourth year).
2020-2021 record: 17-7 (second in Region 4 with a 6-4 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 4 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Westlake, 68-60, in the 6A semifinals.
Returning starters: Two.
Returning contributors:
- Evan Young, G, Sr. — 10.5 ppg, 2.1 rpg, 3.3 apg, 1.3 apg.
- Yaw Reneer, G/F, Sr. — 8.8 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 2.1 apg, 0.8 spg.
- Ollie Anderson, G, Sr. — 4.3 ppg, 1.4 rpg, 1.3 apg.
- Adam Rawson, C, Sr.
- Noah Moeaki, G/F, Sr.
Coach comment: “We are very excited to start a new chapter in basketball at American Fork. This team has the right defensive mindset. They will be a lot of fun to coach. They have high goals for themselves on and off the court. We look forward to a tough preseason schedule and the great challenges that Region 4 presents itself. We are thankful to be playing during this time and look forward to having our community, students, friends and family in the stands.”
3. Lone Peak Knights
Head coach: Robert Ross (fourth year).
2020-2021 record: 14-9 (tied for fourth in Region 4 with a 4-6 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 9 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Westlake, 53-47, in the 6A quarterfinals.
Returning starters: None.
Returning contributors:
- McKay Tanner, G, Sr. — 2.0 ppg, 0.8 rpg.
Coach comment: “We are excited about this year’s group. Led by McKay Tanner, Dallin Tadje and Issac Johnson, they play hard and love to compete.”
4. Westlake Thunder
Head coach: Nate Carling (eighth year).
2020-2021 record: 21-4 (first in Region 4 with an 8-2 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 1 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Davis, 60-55, in the 6A championship.
Returning starters: None.
Returning contributors:
- Kaden Hoppins, PG, Sr. — 5.8 ppg, 2.1 rpg, 2.7 apg, 1.0 spg.
- Willy Jensen, F, Sr. — 7.7 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 1.0 apg.
- Ashton Anderson, G, Sr. — 4.1 ppg, 0.9 rpg, 0.6 apg.
Coach comment: “Westlake graduated a strong senior class last year but will reload with another strong senior class. Several returning players were major contributors on the 2021 region championship team and several newcomers are excited for their opportunity to play varsity basketball. The Westlake student body is excited to be back in the stands to cheer on their Thunder.”
5. Skyridge Falcons
Head coach: Jeff Gardner (sixth year).
2020-2021 record: 15-9 (sixth in Region 4 with a 3-7 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 6 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Corner Canyon, 56-53, in the 6A quarterfinals.
Returning starters: Two.
Returning contributors:
- Nick Holland, G, Sr
- Colby Carter, F, Sr.
- Bryson Bailey, F, Sr..
Coach comment: “We are excited for another season of Skyridge basketball. We have a good mix of returning players and newcomers that are excited to take the floor and continue the tradition of Skyridge basketball. We must continue to improve on the defense end and be physical on the boards to reach our potential. Region 4 will be as competitive as always and we look forward to competing against tough competition every night.”
6. Pleasant Grove Vikings
Head coach: Randy McAllister (20th year).
2020-2021 record: 18-7 (tied for fourth in Region 4 with a 4-6 record).
2021 RPI ranking: No. 2 in 6A.
2021 postseason: Lost to Davis, 62-51, in the 6A quarterfinals.
Returning starters: One.
Returning contributors:
- McCaden Adams, G, Sr. — 15.1 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 1.5 apg, 1.1 spg.
- Michael Mitton, G, Jr. — 2.4 ppg, 0.6 apg.
- Tanner Hanks, G, Sr. — 3.4 ppg, 1.4 rpg, 1.3 apg, 0.7 spg.
- Evan Anderson, G, Sr.
Coach comment: “We are extremely excited for the start of the 2021-22 season. Our roster is made up of a nice mix of upperclassmen and underclassmen. We are short on varsity game experience from most of our players, but look forward to seeing the improvement as the season progresses.”
High school boys basketball: 2021 Class 6A team-by-team preseason capsules
Source: Gabriella Pinoys
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