High school girls basketball: 2020 Class 4A team-by-team preseason capsules

Pine View’s Averi Papa moves around Desert Hills’ Shailee Bundy during the 4A girls basketball state semifinals last year. Both players are back to lead their teams in a balanced Region 9 this year. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News

Pine View, Stansbury, Sky View open the season as the girls basketball preseason favorites in their respective 4A regions

After a multiweek delay because of COVID-19, the 2020-2021 high school girls basketball season gets underway this week for teams teams in 6A through 1A. To prepare fans for the upcoming season, the Deseret News has put together capsules for every team in 4A. Every coach was invited to participate and submit information.

The region rankings are based on coaches preseason projections.

There are two new head basketball coaches in 4A this year: Pepper Reddish (Hurricane) and Morganne Madsen (Logan).

Here are the 4A teams and players to watch this upcoming season.

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Region 9

1. Pine View Panthers

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Ben Luce (second year).

2019-2020 record: 18-8 (third in Region 9 with a 10-4 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Cedar, 61-44, in the 4A championship.

Returning starters: 3.

Returning contributors:

• Averi Papa, F, Sr., 13.9 ppg, 10.7 rpg, 1.4 apg, 1.2 spg.
• Alex Olson, G, Sr., 8.2 ppg, 2.0 rpg, 3.0 apg, 2.0 spg.
• Aly Schmitt, C, Sr., 4.5 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 0.6 apg, 0.4 spg.
• Mady Jensen, G, Sr., 3.0 ppg, 2.3 rpg, 1.5 apg, 0.7 spg.
• Tess Taylor, G, Sr., 2.6 ppg, 0.9 rpg, 0.7 apg, 0.4 spg.

Coach comment: “We have a lot of experienced returners this year to step up and take the place a last year’s great senior class. Pine View is talented. Our lineup is deep. We hope to compete again this year in a tough Region 9.”

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2. Desert Hills Thunder

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Ron Denos (seventh year).

2019-2020 record: 20-4 (2nd in Region 9 with a 11-3 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Pine View, 53-41, in the 4A semifinals.

Returning starters: 2.

Returning contributors:

• Shailee Bundy, C, Sr., 5.6 ppg, 1.4 rpg, 0.2 apg, 0.1 spg.
• Sa’de Turlington, G, Jr., 6.2 ppg, 1.2 rpg, 0.9 apg, 0.6 spg.
• Julia Jacobsen, F, Jr., 7.1 ppg, 1.8 rpg, 0.5 apg, 0.4 spg.
• Sedelle Springer, G, Jr., 1.1 ppg, 0.1 rpg, 0.1 apg.

Coach comment: “I’m just happy to play. It is going to be a different year but I think the team to deal with all the distractions will be the one on top. I hope to be competitive in our region and kids will have to step up to replace our seniors. We will still be young so we will see how quick we can adjust.”

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3. Cedar City Reds

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Corry Nielsen (fourth year).

2019-2020 record: 24-2 (first in Region 9 with a 14-0 record).

2020 postseason: Beat Pine View, 61-44, in the 4A championship.

Returning starters: 1.

Returning contributors:

• Logann Laws, G, Sr., 8.9 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 4.2 apg, 2.5 spg.
• Abby Davis, F, Sr., 3.8 ppg, 2.1 rpg, 0.7 apg, 1.0 spg.
• Grace Morales, G, Sr., 1.0 ppg, 0.5 rpg, 0.2 apg, 0.2 spg.
• Braylee Peterson, G, Jr., 1.9 ppg, 0.4 rpg, 0.5 apg, 0.5 spg.

Coach comment: “Looking forward to competing in a very hard region.”

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4. Hurricane Tigers

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Pepper Reddish (first year).

2019-2020 record: 8-16 (tied for fifth in Region 9 with a 5-9 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Desert Hills, 54-38, in the 4A second round.

Returning starters: 2.

Returning contributors:

• Lydia Prince, G, Sr., 3.4 ppg, 1.8 rpg, 1.4 apg 1.2 spg.
• Haley Chesley, F, Jr., 6.2 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 1.0 apg, 1.1 spg.
• Britin Behriman, C, Sr., 3.1 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 0.5 apg, 0.5 spg.
• Madison Staples, F, Sr., 1.4 ppg, 1.3 rpg, 0.1 apg, 0.3 spg.
• Saidie Gilbert, F, Sr., 1.0 ppg, 0.5 rpg, 0.3 apg, 0.6 spg.

Coach comment: “I am ecstatic about the energy of our team this year! They have put in so much work off season and during all the pandemic. They are hungry and it will be fun to see them on the court this year.”

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5. Canyon View Falcons

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Jaycee Barnhurst (fourth year).

2019-2020 record: 8-16 (seventh in Region 9 with a 3-11 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Cedar Valley, 59-45, in the 4A first round.

Returning starters: 4.

Returning contributors:

• Addison Newman, G, Sr., 9.8 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 3.1 apg, 2.3 spg.
• Erin Robinson, G, Jr., 4.0 ppg, 1.2 rpg, 1.2 apg, 0.6 spg.
• Jaden Johnson, G, Jr., 1.7 ppg, 1.1 rpg, 0.7 apg, 0.3 spg.
• Myka Taylor, G, Jr., 1.3 ppg, 0.5 rpg, 0.3 apg, 0.2 spg.
• Harlee Nicoll, F, Jr., 9.0 ppg, 7.9 rpg, 0.5 apg, 1.4 spg.

Coach comment: “We’re really excited for this season. This is the first year since I took over as the head coach that we don’t have a really young team. We have three seniors, eight juniors, and two sophomores that round out our varsity squad. We’re ready to show what we have been working toward.”

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6. Snow Canyon Warriors

2020-2021 schedule

Head Coach: Dan Roden (fifth year)

2019-2020 record: 15-7 (fourth in Region 9 with a 8-6 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Desert Hills, 56-45, in the 4A quarterfinals.

Returning starters: 0.

Returning contributors:

• Tyler Mooring, F, Sr. 2.8 ppg, 2.4 rpg, 0.3 apg, 0.2 spg.
• Taylan Whitehead, G, Sr., 1.7 ppg, 1.3 rpg, 0.6 apg, 1.0 spg.
• Natalie Olson, F, Soph.

Coach comment: “We lost six great seniors from last year’s quarterfinal team, but these girls are ready to step in and compete.”

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7. Dixie Flyers

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Ryan Forsey (fourth year).

2019-2020 record: 10-12 (tied for fifth in Region 9 with a 5-9 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Snow Canyon, 49-29, in the 4A second round.

Returning starters: 0.

Returning contributors:

• Addy Shaffer, G, Sr., 4.2 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 0.6 apg, 1.1 spg.
• Katie Mills, G, Sr., 1.1 ppg, 0.2 rpg, 0.1 apg, 0.3 spg.

Coach comment: “We’re looking forward to this season, and are very grateful for everyone who is working hard to see it through. It will be somewhat of a rebuilding year for us, but that will give some younger players a great opportunity to prove themselves and earn more playing time. The girls are excited to take on the challenge of playing in Region 9 this year, which is always tough. We’re not the tallest or fastest, but hopefully we can work the hardest and grind out some wins and maybe surprise some people.”

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8. Crimson Cliffs Mustangs

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: KaCee McArthur (second year).

2019-2020 record: 1-21 (eighth in Region 9 with a 0-14 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Uintah, 68-22, in the 4A first round.

Returning starters: 3.

Returning contributors:

• Brooklyn Winget, C, Jr., 8.4 ppg, 1.3 rpg, 0.1 apg, 0.3 spg.
• Riann Gines, F, So., 4.2 ppg, 1.0 rpg, 0.3 apg, 0.1 spg.
• Skylar Sherratt, G, Jr., 1.0 ppg, 0.3 rpg, 0.1 apg, 0.1 spg.

Coach comment: “As a newer program we are still young and growing but have gained some valuable experience from our season last year. With many starters returning and the upcoming underclassmen we will have a good mix of young talented girls looking to grow and improve together as the season progresses. It will be fun to see what this year’s team can accomplish.”

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Region 10

1. Stansbury Stallions

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Brittany Davies.

2019-2020 record: 13-9 (third in Region 10 with a 8-4 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Pine View, 65-50, in the 4A second round.

Additional info not provided.

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2. Juan Diego Soaring Eagle

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Ashley McKray.

2019-2020 record: 18-5 (firstt in Region 10 with a 12-0 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Green Canyon, 61-54, in the 4A quarterfinals.

Returning starters: 2.

Returning contributors:

• Sophia Lopez, Sr., C
• Mahinetea Tavanae, Jr., G
• Kira Rhay, Jr., G
• Nicole Mamuzic, Jr., PG

Coach comment: “Our team has a strong core of juniors and seniors that will lead the way for us. They are surrounded by a lot of young talent. I can’t wait to see how they all blend and work together on the court throughout the season.”

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3. Uintah Utes

2020-2021 schedule

Head Coach: Kristy Putnam (16th year).

2019-2020 record: 11-12 (second in Region 10 with a 9-3 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Mountain Crest, 45-39, in the 4A first round.

Returning starters: 2.

Returning contributors:

• Kenna Gardiner, G, Sr., 11.1 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 0.8 apg 0.9 spg.
• Aly Bake, C, Sr., 2.1 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 0.2 apg, 0.2 spg.
• Kyra Putnam, F, Sr., 2.2 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 0.3 apg, 0.4 spg.
• Lavina Rodd-Caloca, G, Jr., 1.6 ppg, 1.2 rpg, 1.8 apg, 0.5 spg.
• Ella Wright, G, Jr., 1.6 ppg, 1.6 rpg, 1.0 apg, 0.9 spg.

Coach comment: “Uintah is going to have an exciting team this year. We have a lot of returning varsity players who love to be in the gym. Best part about our team this year is that they love to be together. We can’t wait to get back on the court.”

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4. Tooele Buffaloes

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Randy Goss.

2019-2020 record: 7-16 (fifth in Region 10 with a 4-8 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Mountain Crest, 45-39, in the 4A first round.

Additional info not provided.

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5. Ogden Tigers

2020-2021 schedule

Head Coach: Wesley Padilla (third year).

2019-2020 record: 7-16 (sixth in Region 10 with a 3-9 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Hurricane, 63-44, in the 4A first round.

Returning starters: 5.

Returning contributors:

• Ashley Christansen, G, So., 10.8 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 1.2 apg, 1.0 spg.
• Caitlin Richardson, G, Sr., 5.1 ppg, 1.3 rpg, 1.4 apg, 1.3 spg.
• Brace Pulley, C, Jr., 3.5 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 0.2 apg, 0.6 spg.
• Rachel Davis, F, Sr., 5.3 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 0.3 apg, 0.7 spg.
• Ashlen White, F, Sr., 5.0 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 1.0 apg, 1.2 spg.

Coach comment: “Young, athletic and have been together for three years. We will compete in each game.”

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6. Cedar Valley Aviators

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Craig Morris (second year).

2019-2020 record: 6-16 (fourth in Region 10 with a 5-7 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Canyon View, 59-45, in the 4A first round.

Returning starters: 5.

Returning contributors:

• Taylor Miyasaki, G, Sr., 9.1 ppg.
• Naomi Nichols, G, Jr., 6.9 ppg.
• Megan Jensen, G, Sr., 5.6 ppg.
• Lexi Herzog, F, Jr., 0.7 ppg.
• Mal McInnes, F, Sr., 0.7 ppg.

Coach comment: “I believe this will be a special year for all the young ladies across the state. I know my girls were heartbroken at the postponement and are now elated that we are playing. Having something (temporarily) taken from you creates an opportunity to find a way to give more to it than you ever thought possible — now that it is back. I expect this season to be life-changing for our girls. We plan on winning a lot of games, too.”

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7. Ben Lomond Scots

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Chelsye Saulsberry.

2019-2020 record: 2-19 (seventh in Region 10 with a 1-11 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Bear River, 48-24, in the 4A first round.

Additional info not provided.

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Region 11

1. Sky View Bobcats

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Vanessa Hall (fifth year).

2019-2020 record: 12-11 (tied for second in Region 11 with a 7-3 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Logan, 52-39, in the 4A second round.

Returning starters: 3.

Returning contributors:

• Macy Hellstern, G, Jr., 10.8 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 4.0 apg, 1.8 spg.
• Melanie Hiatt, C, So., 7.6 ppg, 8.1 rpg, 0.9 apg, 0.9 spg.
• Gracie Ribdy, G, Sr., 6.8 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 0.9 apg, 1.4 spg.

Coach comment: “We had a great finish to region last year. We are looking forward to getting back on the court and starting where we finished off last year. We are bringing back some key players from last year’s team, who are both leaders on and off the court. We have some young talent that will push our team to be better each day. As a coaching staff, we are eager to get the season underway and find out what our team is capable of this year.”

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2. Green Canyon Wolves

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Alexis Bird (fourth year).

2019-2020 record: 18-6 (tied for second in Region 11 with a 7-3 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Cedar, 68-61, in the 4A semifinal.

Returning starters: 0.

Coach comment: “We graduated most of our varsity experienced players last year, but we are extremely excited for this year’s team. They are a fun and dedicated group who have been working hard during the offseason. We have a great mixture of older and younger players battling to earn time. All varsity spots are up for grabs, so it’ll be exciting to see who steps up for us.”

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3. Ridgeline Riverhawks

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Ainsli Jenks (fifth year).

2019-2020 record: 18-6 (first in Region 11 with a 9-1 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Pine View, 52-21, in the 4A quarterfinals.

Returning starters: 1.

Returning contributors:

• Haley Anderson, G, Sr., 12.3 ppg, 2.1 rpg, 2.1 apg, 2.5 spg.
• Sarah Litchford, C, Sr.

Coach comment: “We have a very young team this year with a couple of great senior leaders. Our hope is that we have the opportunity to enjoy an uninterrupted season, but we’ll focus on the things that we can control. Our motto this year, picked by our senior leaders is “Enjoy the Journey” and that is what we plan to do.”

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4. Logan Grizzlies

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Morganne Madsen (first year).

2019-2020 record: 13-10 (fourth in Region 11 with a 4-6 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Cedar, 65-39, in the 4A quarterfinals.

Additional info not provided.

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5. Mountain Crest Mustangs

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Megan Smith (third year).

2019-2020 record: 6-17 (sixth in Region 11 with a 0-10 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Cedar, 56-28, in the 4A second round.

Returning starters: 1.

Returning contributors:

• Havyn Brown, G, Jr., 8.7 ppg, 1.7 rpg, 0.9 apg, 1.0 spg.
• Paige Larocco, G, Jr., 3.3 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 0.4 apg, 1.0 spg.
• Sadie Coggins, G, Jr., 3.2 ppg, 0.8 rpg, 0.3 apg, 1.0 spg.
• Lexie Coggins, G, Jr., 2.1 ppg, 0.7 rpg, 0.4 apg, 0.5 spg.
• Manaia Tupuola, F, Jr., 1.5 ppg, 1.6 rpg, 0.2 apg, 0.4 spg

Coach comment: “I’m very excited for this season especially. Regardless of the impact the COVID-19 has already had on winter sports, I believe it’s our time to showcase what we can really do. We’ve revamped our coaching staff and still have a lot of young talent that have worked extremely hard in the offseason. I mentioned my contributors above which are all Juniors so I’m looking forward to continuing to help develop these players. They have great chemistry and their work ethic is unlike any other team I’ve coached in the past! I think we have a great opportunity to compete in our region as well as at state.”

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6. Bear River Bears

2020-2021 schedule

Head coach: Tyrell Neal (second year).

2019-2020 record: 9-14 (fifth in Region 11 with a 3-7 record).

2020 postseason: Lost to Green Canyon, 65-40, in the 4A second round.

Returning starters: 3.

Returning contributors:

• Olivia Taylor, C, Sr., 9.8 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 0.6 apg, 1.3 spg.
• Kami Gibbs, F, Sr.
• Kaitlyn McKee, G, Sr.

Coach comment: “We are more than excited to get started on the 2020 season. We have a competitive lineup and are looking to make positive waves throughout our pre-region and region play. Our girls are excited to compete!”

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