"She's our point guard, so everything we do runs through her," said South Sevier head coach Randy Madsen. And not only does she run that offense with precision, averaging nearly six assists per game, she can also put points on the board herself. She averaged 14 points per game this season for the 2A champions.

"She's one of the state's top 3-point shooters," he said. "Her leadership really helps us."

Parsons' leadership skills were put to the test when the Rams' 27-game win streak came to an end with a double-overtime loss to region rival Richfield. South Sevier stumbled again against North Sevier, although it was missing two starters from its lineup.

"She's both vocal, and she leads by example," said Madsen. "She has a great work ethic, and she works hard off the court as well. She is a great fundamental player."

She won't monopolize a conversation, but "she will say what needs to be said." Parsons' favorite go-to player is junior Aubrey Lindgren, and Madsen said watching the two of them team up "is something special."

1A MVP:

Allie Eastman, Rich

There isn't much Allie Eastman can't do on the basketball court.

The junior is so versatile, it's hard to define her skills with a position. The program lists her as a forward, and she averaged seven rebounds per game. Her coach considers her a guard, and she scored 15 points per game and grabbed three steals per game.

"She has a great court awareness and vision," said Rebels head coach Scott Ferguson. "She's a huge part of why we're able to fast-break as much as we do."

Eastman can shoot from anywhere and is a solid free-throw shooter.

"She shoots effortlessly," Ferguson said. "She has the touch. ... That helps out a lot more aspects of our game, especially inside because teams have to worry about her."

Also a volleyball player, Eastman thrives under pressure.

"Stress doesn't seem to bother her," Ferguson said. "When it's crunch time, she wants the ball. Her desire and focus is motivating to her teammates."

Her leadership and athletic ability helped the Rebels to their first 1A title in girls basketball.

"She's just a super kid," Ferguson said. "She's fun to coach and pleasant to be around."

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E-mail: adonaldson@desnews.com