High school athletes of the week

PRESTON RICHARDS, Jordan, basketball: The 'Diggers are a threat in Region 2 and Class 5A once again, and the play of this senior guard is a big reason why.

Richards, who is arguably the fastest guard in the state, led Jordan to a pair of easy wins last week. He scored 15 points in a 64-50 victory over Hillcrest on Friday and then followed it up with 32 points in a 63-49 triumph over Taylorsville.

His performances are particularly impressive considering he was sick all week, including throwing up in the locker room at halftime of the Hillcrest game.

Richards is averaging 16.2 points, 3.8 assists and 2.5 steals this year.

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ALYSON BAIRD, Wasatch, basketball: This senior point guard could do more to put herself in the spotlight, but she prefers to help her teammates find success.

"She never gets any credit and she just does an amazing job for us," said Wasatch head coach Roger Pyper. "She could score if she has to, but she's happy to just get her teammates the ball where they can score. She's just a really cerebral player. She gets kids in the right places to be successful. She really is like having a coach on the floor."

Baird, who averages six assists per game, has led the Wasps to an 18-0 by distributing the ball to her equally talented teammates.

"I think you just get a feeling of confidence when she's on the floor," Pyper said of Baird, who is also an all-state soccer player. "I know the other kids really feel that."

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