Preps of the week

JAY VANTASSELL, Tabiona: This student body president is a big reason the Tigers are off to an impressive 8-0 start this year.

In a victory over Independence, Nev., last week, VanTassell racked up 44 points and 22 rebounds. The following day in a win over West Wendover, Nev., he recorded 19 points and 14 rebounds.

"Jay is a very coachable kid," said Tabiona coach Shay Price. "He is not only a great basketball player, but a great student as well. Jay is a very unselfish basketball player and makes everyone else around him better."

VanTassell maintains a 3.86 GPA and is averaging 20.6 ppg.

VanTassell was a second-team all-stater last year, and this fall, he was named a second-team all-state baseball player.

CHELSEY BROWN, Timpanogos: This senior is leading her team in scoring at 18 points per game, but it's what she does for her teammates that is helping the Timberwolves get off to their best start ever with a 9-0 record.

"She's always been a great scorer," said first-year coach Elizabeth Darger. "But she's really picked up her defense, and she's really getting her teammates involved. She's done everything I've asked. She's also taken the responsibility of captain very, very seriously and is getting everyone involved and is getting them all excited."

The 4.0 guard/forward has worked hard improving her game this past summer. Now she's working on elevating the play of those around her. "I think her teammates trust her more," Darger said. "They know they're safe around her; safe to make a mistake and safe to succeed."

To nominate a prep of the week, contact Deseret Morning News prep editor James Edward at jedward@desnews.com.