With the departure of Perry High School superstar Koa Peat to the University of Arizona, the Arizona high school basketball landscape is entering a new era, and Higley High School is ready to seize the moment. After posting an impressive 20-8 record last season in the state’s top 6A division, Higley is returning with more firepower and momentum, after a strong showing this summer and the addition of some top-rated young talent. Under the direction of hard-working and successful veteran Head Coach Kenny Drake and his experienced staff, the Knights are now in the conversation as one of the top programs to watch in the state.
At the center of Higley’s rise is terrific 5-foot-11 senior guard Noah Gloor, one of the state’s premier returning players. Gloor has had an excellent career for Drake and Higley, and last season he led the team in scoring for a second-straight season - averaging 18.9 points, 3.8 assists and 3.8 rebounds per game as a junior. Gloor has consistently showcased his elite perimeter shooting and high basketball IQ during the high school season, and also this spring and summer with the Arizona Gremlins. Gloor is coming off a tremendous club season on the Adidas Gauntlet circuit, where he was one of the most impressive performers each time I saw his compete.
Higley’s backcourt will get an enormous boost this season with the arrival of stud freshman guard Isaiah Rider (pictured), a very talented and mentally mature 6-foot freshman point guard who brings national recognition to the program. Rider is the son of former NBA star J.R. Rider, and is widely regarded as one of the elite national prospects in America's 2029 Class. Already holding numerous Division I offers before even playing a high school game, Rider is expected to be one of the state’s top performers right away. Joining him will be 6-foot-3 freshman guard Marquice Pless, who will also make a major impact for this year's group. Pless has been regarded as one of the top incoming freshmen in Arizona, and adds size, athleticism, and scoring ability to the Higley lineup.
In addition to these two elite freshman prospects, Higley landed a nice transfer in Andre Tyler, a 6-foot-5 guard/wing from Chicago. Tyler is a high-motor player who brings toughness, rebounding, and defensive versatility to Higley’s frontcourt, while also being capable of scoring in transition and attacking the rim.
Coach Kenny Drake is a proven leader with years of success, and he has quietly built one of the top basketball programs in Arizona. Higley has made steady progress over the past few years, and now the program is beginning to see its work pay off with national recognition and major talent additions.
Last season, Higley had a strong season, and with the field wide open this season, they are expected to be a strong contender for the Open Division State Championship. With a core of experienced upperclassmen and one of the most talented freshman duos in the state, this Higley program looks ready to become one of Arizona’s basketball powerhouses over the next few years.
I look forward to watching this group this fall and next high school season. This program is definitely on the rise - again.
