by James Tate
The special senior season for Marchant and the Phoenix
Farmington Phoenix’s senior Marissa Marchant has been a dominating force on the basketball court this season. Marchant leads the team averaging 12.2 points and 6.7 rebounds per game this season. Marchant leads Farmington into the state playoffs with a home game against the West Jordan Jaguars on February 21, 2023. The Phoenix finished fourth in rugged region 1 action this season, with Marchant and her senior teammates leading the way.
Great senior teammates
Marchant is part of a unique senior class for the Phoenix that has stuck together through the ups and downs. “I’ll forever be grateful for these seven seniors, said Marchant. “And my opportunity to play with them for my last season.”
Last season, teammate Maddie Hauck was injured and missed the season. Hauck has returned and is playing a vital role on the team.
“Seeing her come back with the determination has motivated the team to have multiple things to fight for each game,” said Marchant. “We’ve become people we know we can rely on, and I wouldn’t want to end the season with any other unit.”
Marchant’s improved game
Marchant is a dual sport athlete playing on the volleyball and basketball teams. Marchant improved her scoring from four points per game as a junior to 12 points this year. An outstanding rebounder, Marchant has reached double-figure rebounding in seven games this season. “I would credit my parents for going to the gym with me and pushing me to be better,” said Marchant. “Also, I would credit my coaches and teammates for making practice a great way to improve my game.” She has developed into one of the state’s top players with her ability to score inside and outside. Marchant has a smooth jump shot and great quickness around the basket. She sees the floor very well and can spot teammates for open shots.
Marchant is a tough matchup for any team, and her ability to hit clutch shots is incredible. Against the Syracuse Titans, Marchant scored 17 points, and her game-tying three-point basket sent the game into overtime. Although the Phoenix eventually lost the game 59-50, Marchant was valuable in keeping the game close.
Bright future for Marchant
On the court, Marchant is energetic and challenging and displays a heart unmatched by many opponents. She is looking to use those characteristics off the court in nursing after high school. Marchant plans on attending Utah State University and studying nursing. She is currently working on completing courses for her medical assisting certificate. Marchant is active with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and enjoys helping others and children.
“I enjoy attending young women’s activities and spending time with younger girls and seeing the world from their point of view,” said Marchant. “This gives me an opportunity to strengthen those around me and take the focus off of what is going on in my life.” “In the end, sports will always be something I enjoy watching and playing,” said Marchant.
What it means to be a Phoenix
As the moments of the basketball season close with the state tournament, Marchant understands the saying, “enjoy these times.”
“This year, I have been able to look back on the progress that I have made since joining this program as a freshman,” said Marchant. “This team will always have a piece of my heart, and this year has shown me that in order to win, you have to play as a team and not as individuals.”
“I have enjoyed becoming closer to my teammates and coaches as they celebrate the big wins alongside me,” said Marchant.
Guiding the Phoenix is the state’s all-time winningest girls basketball coach Van Price. “In the end, I would love to thank all the coaches I have had throughout my career playing for Farmington high school girls’ basketball,” said Marchant. “They have taught me valuable lessons I will take with me for the rest of my life.”
“Coach Price, coach Beecher, coach Spendlove, coach Nyman, coach Stokes, and coach Sunny,” said Marchant. “These people have forever changed my life and shown me that there is more to life than a ball game.”
“I am forever grateful for the four years I have spent with the girls’ basketball team,” said Marchant. “And the amazing coaches that we have had,”
Seniors and underclassmen to watch
The Farmington seniors are Victoria Clinger, Teagan Dagley, Mele Fiefia, Kate Geddes, Whitney Avei, Courtney Christiansen, Hauck, and Marchant. Next season, the Phoenix will look to many new faces to step up and compete in each game. “This year, I have seen tremendous improvement in the games of Brynn Ryan and Breklyn Archibald,” said Marchant. “They are for sure people to look out for as they have the desire to win and the determination to lead the team to a victory.”
As the state tournament tips off and the finalization of a team’s season after each game, Marchant will be soaking in all the special moments. Marchant will garner post-season awards, and it will all be well deserved.
cover photo courtesy of Kasey Walkenhurst, Farmington High School, and in-story photo courtesy of James Tate