State of Region 4 — This might be the year the league claims the title

Ever since their jump to 5A, the Region 4 teams have been waiting to make their mark in the state tournament — and this might just be the year they can compete with anyone in 5A and perhaps even take home a trophy.

For two teams especially, this season should be fun and successful as American Fork and Lone Peak are both waltzing through tough seasons unscathed thus far, playing and defeating some of the state's most difficult competition. Both the Cavemen and the Knights should have no trouble in a rough and rowdy Region 4 and should make their mark in the February tourney.

As for their competition against each other for the top spot in Region 4, this year should add to an already-storied rivalry. And this season is proving to be one of the most heated ever already, leading to some interesting matchups in league play between two of the state's top teams.

One thing these teams have in common is a blazing starting lineup followed by some incredible depth.

"We will comfortably go 12 girls deep this year. The fun thing is watching the intensity in practice as the girls battle hard for playing time," said Lone Peak coach Keith Flood, who is excited about his team's chances this season as they begin the year with a solid place in the 5A top five.

And their height has proven deadly to many teams so far this year as they run in post after post to wear down other teams in the middle. Amanda Farish, who has signed with Southern Utah, will be the preordained leader, but Ryan Littlefield, Kati Oliverson and Kandace Pope will take some time in the post to give her some freedom to move around and use her versatility. Marquelle Funk is the freshman to watch this year as she shows amazing talent and poise beyond her years, and Shantel Flanary and Stephanie George will be tough to stop in the backcourt.

Another team solidly planted in the top five is American Fork, which also easily goes 12 deep and prides itself on its versatility. But it definitely will be counting on Kaycee Mansfield and Haley Holmstead to lead the way as the girls take turns turning things on and bringing around victories.

"Those two are prolific scorers and can score in so many ways. I don't know if you can guard either with only one person. We're working on our diversity so that teams can't scout out our games," said American Fork coach Corey Clayton.