6A - Region 2 Preview | Prep Girls Hoops

Region 2 has an intriguing mix of familiar faces and fresh competition this year, as realignment brings a shake-up to the landscape. Cedar Valley makes the jump from 5A, while Corner Canyon exits and Westlake joins from Region 3—creating a new balance of power and adding depth to an already competitive region.   With Copper Hills entering the season as the reigning state runner-up, all eyes will be on how they adjust with new leadership and a retooled roster. Meanwhile, Westlake, Herriman, and Riverton have the experience and athleticism to challenge for the top spot. Cedar Valley's move up will be a test of how their system translates to the 6A level, while programs like Mountain Ridge continue to build under new direction.   Overall, Region 2 should be one of the most balanced and competitive regions in the state, where every game could have playoff implications and where new rivalries are bound to emerge.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">COPPER HILLS</h2>   Record: 21-6. 1st in Region 2. 6A State Runner-Up.   Copper Hills Grizzlies   Copper Hills enters this season as one of the biggest question marks in Region 2. The Grizzlies graduated eight seniors, including all five starters—four of whom are now competing at the next level. That kind of turnover would be challenging for any program, and with a new coach stepping in, this year marks a true reset for Copper Hills.   However, there's reason for optimism. Several players who filled key rotational roles last season—often serving as the 5th or 6th option—are now ready to step into starting positions. In addition, a handful of younger athletes are beginning to emerge as legitimate varsity contributors, taking advantage of the more open roster this year. Standout players to watch for Copper Hills this season include [player_tooltip player_id='1206007' first='Abby' last='Bush'], whose deep 3-point range makes her a constant threat from beyond the arc. [player_tooltip player_id='922382' first='Ella' last='Creer'] brings smooth shooting and disruptive length on both ends of the floor, while [player_tooltip player_id='1248994' first='Makayla' last='Staker'] is establishing herself as a center to keep an eye on, controlling the paint with her size and skill. Other names to note include [player_tooltip player_id='796851' first='Sela' last='Ama'], [player_tooltip player_id='1238745' first='Elise' last='Southworth'], [player_tooltip player_id='1325144' first='Addie' last='Guymon'], [player_tooltip player_id='1325129' first='Mariah' last='McCain'], Riley Greenwood, and [player_tooltip player_id='1325143' first='Kynzie' last='Petter'], each of whom has the potential to step up and make an impact as the season unfolds.   With so much change, early-season chemistry and leadership development will be crucial. But don't count Copper Hills out—the program has a strong foundation and a reputation for developing players quickly. This may be a rebuilding year on paper, but it's also an opportunity for new talent to rise and redefine the team's identity.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">WESTLAKE</h2>   Record: 18-7. 1st in Region 3   Westlake Thunder   Westlake joins Region 2 after dominating Region 3 last season as the defending champs, and their arrival instantly shakes up the competition. The move means they'll no longer face off against Lone Peak—the reigning state champions—but that might not slow them down one bit.   Despite graduating four seniors, none were major statistical leaders, leaving Westlake's core largely intact. Their fall league performances have shown strong chemistry and a defensive intensity that stands out. [player_tooltip player_id='861992' first='Ella' last='Seymore'] anchors the interior with her shot-blocking presence, while [player_tooltip player_id='796479' first='Avery' last='Thompson'] continues to be the engine of the team—leading in points, assists, and steals from last year.   With emerging talents like [player_tooltip player_id='1038913' first='Katie' last='Cannon'], [player_tooltip player_id='1248783' first='Keira' last='Hester'], [player_tooltip player_id='796486' first='Mia' last='Foster'], and [player_tooltip player_id='829862' first='Isley' last='Sauvao'] ready to step into bigger varsity roles, Westlake looks poised not just to contend for the Region 2 title but to make another deep state tournament run. This is a squad with balance, experience, and hunger—one that could very well find itself back in the championship conversation.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">BINGHAM</h2>   Record: 18-8. 2nd in Region 2.   Bingham Miners   Bingham is another program that graduated a full starting lineup of players, losing eight seniors in total. That kind of turnover could shake a lot of teams, but Bingham still has plenty of talent ready to step up and make an impact. [player_tooltip player_id='789053' first='Stacia' last='Peoples'] hit free throws at an impressive 74% last season, while both she and [player_tooltip player_id='796474' first='Evalyn' last='Roberts'] led the team in three-point percentage at 37%. Roberts also carried a good portion of the scoring load and has the experience to be a steadying force this season.   This team won't be short on returning contributors. Players like [player_tooltip player_id='875180' first='Lanie' last='Smith'] and [player_tooltip player_id='805794' first='Brizzy' last='Cottle'] bring valuable leadership and composure, and both have the kind of experience that helps steady a younger roster. Alongside them, newcomers such as Veanna Pauʻu bring length, size, and energy that could be big for the Miners as they rework their system and find their new rhythm.   Even with the roster turnover, Bingham has a chance to be a team that surprises people. They've got a mix of reliable returners, new pieces with upside, and a tradition of tough, physical basketball that won't fade overnight. After falling to Copper Hills in the semifinals last year, this group has plenty of motivation to prove they're still one of the top programs in 6A.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">MOUNTAIN RIDGE</h2>   Record: 16-9. 3rd in Region 2.   Mountain Ridge Sentinels   Mountain Ridge returns one of the more complete rosters in Region 2, with a strong combination of upperclassmen leadership and young players who have already logged meaningful varsity minutes. After a solid showing last season, the Sentinels are positioned to make a deeper run this year under head coach Matthew Montgomery, who steps in with both experience and familiarity—especially given that his daughter, Kaylee, is one of the team's key players. They have lost one contributor to a transfer, but the group that is left won't take long to fill that space.   Running the offense will once again be [player_tooltip player_id='805788' first='Kaylee' last='Montgomery'], a selfless point guard who thrives on setting up her teammates while still being able to create her own scoring opportunities. She's complemented by [player_tooltip player_id='866703' first='Jada' last='Jangard'], who brings elite court vision and defensive pressure, often setting the tone on both ends. [player_tooltip player_id='805789' first='Cailin' last='Kehl'], one of the grittiest players on the roster, adds toughness and energy, while [player_tooltip player_id='805787' first='Josephine' last='Lombardi'] and [player_tooltip player_id='796847' first='Jessica' last='Maynard'] provide balance in the frontcourt with rebounding, size, and consistent scoring near the rim.   With nearly their entire lineup returning, Mountain Ridge has the chemistry and cohesion that can't be manufactured overnight. Their biggest advantage lies in experience—this group has played together, grown together, and understands what it takes to win close games. If they can tighten up defensively and maintain their offensive rhythm, the Sentinels could easily push for a top-three finish in Region 2 and make some serious postseason noise.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">RIVERTON</h2>   Record: 13-10. 4th in Region 2   Riverton Silverwolves   Riverton enters the new season with a mix of returning talent and young energy that could make them a serious contender in Region 2. The Silverwolves lost four seniors, but their returning core is solid—experienced enough to compete with the top of the region and athletic enough to push the tempo when needed. This group has shown flashes of high-level basketball, and if they can maintain consistency, Riverton could surprise a few teams along the way.   [player_tooltip player_id='812028' first='Gabby' last='Murdock'] is one of the key players to watch this year. She's a steady 2–3 guard who moves well off the ball, defends with grit, and can knock down open shots from deep. Expect players like [player_tooltip player_id='812050' first='Maggie' last='Hamblin'] to add balance, with both having the ability to rebound and defend multiple positions. Riverton's offense looks to be more spread out this season, with several players capable of scoring in double figures on any given night. Other players of note: [player_tooltip player_id='952618' first='Meg' last='Rawson'], [player_tooltip player_id='805798' first='Kenedee' last='Farnsworth'], and [player_tooltip player_id='875182' first='Sam' last='Spencer']   Defensively, Riverton thrives on pressure and energy—traits that should serve them well against Region 2's fast-paced teams. The challenge will be finishing games and limiting turnovers against disciplined programs like Westlake and Copper Hills. Still, this team has the tools to be competitive every night, and with their improving depth and defensive identity, Riverton could find itself in the mix for a top regional spot by the end of the season.     <h2 class="wp-block-heading">CEDAR VALLEY</h2>   Record: 16-7. 3rd in Region 7 - 5A   Cedar Valley Aviators   Cedar Valley is making the jump from 5A to 6A this season, and that shift will test both their depth and consistency against a new slate of opponents. They're a team that has shown steady growth year over year, and this move gives them the chance to prove they can compete with bigger, faster programs. The Aviators have a mix of upperclassmen leadership and young talent that could allow them to surprise some Region 2 teams early on.   Leading the way will likely be players like [player_tooltip player_id='796817' first='Presley' last='Whiting'], who brings energy and toughness in the paint, and sharpshooter [player_tooltip player_id='796815' first='Hadley' last='Whiting'], who can stretch the defense with her perimeter shooting. Cedar Valley also has several multi-sport athletes who bring that extra edge in athleticism and competitiveness. Their success this season will come down to how well they can handle the physicality and pace of 6A play, particularly on the defensive end. Look for help from [player_tooltip player_id='796818' first='Ellie' last='Larson'], [player_tooltip player_id='935878' first='Daisy' last='Thayne'], and [player_tooltip player_id='827410' first='Savannah' last='Klodt'] as well.   With their balance of experience and youth, Cedar Valley could be a dark horse in the region. If they can stay consistent offensively and limit turnovers against pressure-heavy defenses, this team has the potential to pull off a few key upsets and shake up the standings. Their transition to 6A may come with growing pains, but this program is one that plays with heart and hustle—and that always keeps them in the fight.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">HERRIMAN</h2>   Record: 3-21   Herriman Mustangs   Herriman enters this season with a lot to prove and a roster capable of doing just that. The Mustangs have been building consistency over the past couple of years, and while they graduated a few seniors, they bring back an experienced group that understands how to play together. Their offensive balance and athleticism give them a real chance to compete in Region 2, especially as they continue developing their young core.   Younger contributors, such as [player_tooltip player_id='1092170' first='Addison' last='Porter'] and [player_tooltip player_id='937698' first='Grace' last='Cannon'] will see increased varsity minutes.   The biggest key for Herriman this season will be composure and closing out games. They've been on the edge of breaking into the upper tier of 6A, and this might be the year they do it.

Region 2 has an intriguing mix of familiar faces and fresh competition this year, as realignment brings a shake-up to the landscape. Cedar Valley makes the jump from 5A, while Corner Canyon exits and Westlake joins from Region 3—creating a new balance of power and adding depth to an already competitive region.