Independent Top 10 team preview: No. 9 Wasatch Academy

By Staff Report Nov 8, 2016, 9:00am

After a breakout 2015-16 campaign, Tigers look to take it to another level behind Emmanuel Akot.

Video: Breaking down the Independent Top 10
Wasatch Academy aiming for a repeat trip to New York City.

7. Wasatch Academy (Mt. Pleasant, Utah)

Head coach: Curtis Condie (29-4, second year)

2015-16 record: 29-4



PLAYERS TO WATCH

Emmanuel Akot (6-7, Jr., F) … Top 50 prospect in the Class of 2018

Jeff Baradziej (6-5, Sr., G) … Returner from last year's Dick's Nationals team

Bernardo Da Silva (6-7, So., F) … Newcomer from Brazil

Devonire Glass (6-6, Jr., F) … Began last season at Chicago power Simeon

Michael Okafor (6-3, Sr., G) … One of six Canadians on the roster



Josip Vrankic (6-8, Sr., F) … Committed to Santa Clara

Zion Young (6-3, Jr., G) … Newcomer from Indiana

Luis Zerban (7-0, Jr., C) … Has played on Germany national age group teams

STORYLINES

* Before bowing out to Oak Hill Academy at Dick's Nationals, Wasatch Academy legitimized itself as a national power during the 2015-16 season. The Tigers beat teams from nine states (including 2016-17 preseason No. 1 La Lumiere) as well as Australia and Canada.

* Akot was a virtual unknown when he arrived at Wasatch Academy a year ago but has since rose to five-star status. Arizona, Louisville, Oregon and Utah are the finalists for his services.



KEY DATES

Nov. 30 – vs. Findlay Prep (Henderson, Nev.)

Dec. 8-10 – FreeTaxUSA Shootout

Jan. 15 – vs. IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.) @ Spalding Hoophall Classic

Jan. 28 – vs. Chino Hills (Calif.) @ Fairfax State Preview