PORTLAND, OR - The 2017 OSAA 6A playoffs tip off Tuesday en route to the state tournament. Here is a preview of the top five teams in the state, with featured stand out players in sights of the title game on March 11 at the Chiles Center at University of Portland.
1. Jefferson High School Democrats (22-1 overall, 16-0 PIL)
Jefferson is arguably the most historically decorated high school for boys basketball in Portland, Oregon with talent produced and titles won. Their downside; a title in the 6A division.
The Democrats are led by nine-year head coach Pat Strickland. After going undefeated in conference and claiming the PIL division, the Democrats now look for their first 6A state title since jumping a class.
The team is led by sophomore Marcus Tsohonis, a versatile guard who is beyond his years athletically and IQ wise. Also, newest addition to this team is 6-9 junior Kamaka Hepa who is ranked in the ESPN Top 100 and heavily recruited by the entire Pac-12, Gonzaga, Oklahoma and many more highly acclaimed basketball programs.
Another standout is senior Geno West who is the reigning player of the year in the PIL and has flourished on varsity all four years.
Jefferson is known for its athleticism and swallowing defense. The Democrats play No. 32 Willamette in the first round.
2. West Linn High School Lions (19-4, 14-0 Three Rivers Conference)
This West Linn basketball team has claimed the state title for the last four years running. In the offseason, the Lions lost eight seniors - including Oregon starting point guard Payton Pritchard - but gained numerous key components elevating the team's talent to another level.
Returners senior Braden Olsen and junior Jalen Thompson are quite the duo in the backcourt. Transfers include sharp shooter and skilled utility guard senior Nolan Bertain, Keishon Dawkins a powerhouse junior, senior Rodney Hounshell and senior Khalid Thomas; all of whom are heavily recruited.
Head coach Tyler Toney, a West Linn alumni, is in his inaugural season with the Lions in hopes of continuing the winning legacy. West Linn will face No. 31 Madison in the first round.
3. Clackamas High School Cavaliers (20-4, 14-0 Mt. Hood Conference)
A team that fell short of the state tournament in 2016, expect the Cavaliers to be out for blood this post-season. Led by one of the most aggressive point guards in the state despite his smaller size, Elijah Gonzales who is headed to Portland State next season.
Another team with size in the front court, Matt O’Brien standing at 6’9 is known to throw down jams at the rim. Heading into the playoffs, Clackamas is on a 14-game win streak, dating their last loss back in December to the state’s leader Jefferson High School. The Cavaliers play No. 30 Century in the first round.
4. Beaverton High School Beavers (20-4, 15-1 Metro League)
The Beavers are playing their best basketball at the best possible time. Starting the season a bit rocky, Beaverton suffered their losses at the front half of the season, but have taken a stride to claim Metro-League champs for the second year in a row.
Led by senior Hunter Sweet, the 2016 POY for the Metro League, the Beavers are praised by their consistent outside shooting. They play No. 29 Barlow in the first round
5. Westview High School Wildcats (20-4, 14-2 Metro League)
Another Metro League powerhouse are the Westview Wildcats. Led by coach Pat Coons, in his 22nd year at Westview, the Wildcats take pride in their discipline on defense and patience in their offense.
Westview features a strong backcourt with senior Mason Elliot and senior Saiid Ali, with outstanding athleticism and poise.
Westview looks to run a faster-paced offense in hopes of making runs on teams before defense can get set. The Wildcats play No. 28 Roosevelt in the first round
