Why Kanab is the favorite to repeat in 2A!
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Continuing our series of why I believe certain teams are the favorites to win their classifications, we move to 2A to look at the potential for a repeat in 2A just like we did for 3A with Morgan.
It’ll be interesting to see a team like American Leadership Academy this year in 2A as well. Kobe Ross and new addition Cooper Crockett make them the primary contender to Kanab after last season’s close loss to the Cowboys in the final four. Nonetheless, here’s the case for Kanab (with an image generated by Google Gemini as well…anyone want to help me make better images?)
The Kanab Cowboys aren’t just contenders; they are the reigning 2A State Champions. After an unforgettable run last season, they return a battle-tested and highly decorated core ready to make a serious push for back-to-back titles. While the departure of a Player of the Year is always significant, Kanab’s returning senior talent and proven winners make them the team to beat once again.
All-State Duo Leading the Charge
Kanab boasts an incredible advantage with two returning 1st Team All-State players from their championship squad.
Senior Kyle Brown was a dynamic force last season, earning his All-State nod with impressive averages of 15.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 2.0 steals per game. As a versatile 6’1” guard/forward, Brown impacts every facet of the game. His ability to score, rebound, and play lockdown defense will be pivotal as he steps into an even larger leadership role for his senior campaign and the early favorite for 2A Player of the Year.
Joining him as a fellow 1st Team All-State selection is senior Carson Visser. Visser, standing at a commanding 6’4”, was a dominant presence in the paint for the Cowboys. He averaged 13.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game, making him one of the premier interior forces in 2A. His size, scoring efficiency, and rim protection will be a nightmare for opposing teams, solidifying Kanab’s defensive backbone.
Filling Big Shoes and Elevated Roles
The biggest question mark for the Cowboys will be replacing the immense production of last year’s 2A Player of the Year, Cash Mortensen. Mortensen’s 16.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game leave a significant void. This is where fellow senior Trey Castagno steps in.
Castagno showed promise last season, averaging 5.1 points and 1.8 steals per game. With an expanded role and more opportunities, his scoring and playmaking will be crucial to filling the offensive gap left by Mortensen. His experience from the championship run will be invaluable as he, Brown, and Visser shoulder the primary responsibilities.
The Path to a Repeat
Kanab’s returning senior class is not just talented; they are champions. They know what it takes to win in the biggest moments, and their collective experience from last year’s title run will be a massive asset. While replacing a Player of the Year is no easy task, the proven All-State leadership of Brown and Visser, combined with the expected rise of Castagno, provides a solid foundation.
The Cowboys have the star power, the size, and the championship pedigree to make a serious run at consecutive state titles. If their senior leaders continue to perform at an elite level and the team embraces the challenge of defending their crown, Kanab is undoubtedly the team to watch in 2A basketball.
