High school girls basketball: MVPs knew how to lead, inspire their teammates

SALT LAKE CITY — Not every talented high school basketball player will earn a state championship trophy.

The best players, however, not only find a way to reach their own potential but also help those around them develop their own skills and talents.

This year's Deseret News most valuable players are a diverse group of young women. And while they share a talent and love for basketball, they also share the ability to lead and inspire their teammates.

5A MVP: Brittney Martin, Syracuse

Pressure may be a heavy burden for some, but for Brittney Martin it is fuel.

"She kind of thrives on it," said Syracuse coach Rob Reisbeck. "She likes that pressure. To her, that's why she plays. She wants to prove she's as good as advertised."

Instead of wilting under the scrutiny, Martin flourished. The two-sport athlete helped the Titans to a perfect season and a 5A state title by averaging 18.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, five steals, three assists and two blocked shots per game.

"She takes things as they come and she just steps up to the (challenge)," said Reisbeck. "She hasn't backed down."

That confidence is something coaches can't teach. But they can harness it. Reisbeck asked the young player to "step into a leadership role along with Jen (Hazlett) and Megan (Butler)."

"I thought she did an excellent job," said Reisbeck. "She was a little more vocal this year when it came to certain things, but she's more of a lead-by-example (player)."

Martin, who also plays volleyball, is agile and much quicker than she might look.

"Offensively, she can create her own shot," said Reisbeck of the two-year starter. "She's pretty well-rounded defensively. She covers so much ground on the floor. You look at her and you wouldn't necessarily think she's quick. But she's very deceptive. She gets more deflections and steals than you'd imagine."

The most exciting aspect of Martin's game is knowing she has two more years of high school to develop.

"For as young as she is, her growth over the last two years has been amazing," said Reisbeck. "We're so excited to see what's next. There is room to get better and she wants to get better and better."

4A MVP: Ashley Kuchar, Provo