The Hive Sports

by James Tate

Syracuse High School is home to one of the most dynamic playmakers in the state, senior Avery Sanders. Playing on the varsity team since her freshman year, Sanders comes into her senior season having played in 70 varsity games. Playing 21 games as a freshman, Sanders also had the opportunity to play with her older sister, Baylee Sanders. 

“One of my most memorable moments is playing with my sister,” Sanders said. “I was a freshman, and she was a senior. It was such a cool experience, and I look up to her a ton. We played together on the soccer field and the basketball court.”

Head coach Braden Hamblin knew Sanders would grow into a special player from her freshman season. Since her freshman year with the Titans, Sanders has helped the team have a 55-20 overall record.

“Avery Sanders has been with our program for four seasons,” Coach Hamblin said. “Ever since she was a freshman, I knew she would be a great basketball player.”

Ready for another championship run

Sanders knows this season is the Titans’ best shot to win Region 1 and make another run at the state championship. With four of five starters back from last season’s team that made it into the state quarterfinals round of the playoffs, the Titans are ready for the challenge.

Last season, the Titans finished 16-9 overall after finishing third (8-4) in the loaded Region 1. Region 1 saw five teams make it into the second round of the 2023 state playoffs.

“Last year, we had a completely new team,” said Sanders. “We had lost a ton of seniors, so we spent a lot of time trying to connect and get going. I think this year we will be able to jump straight into things. We have a tough region so we have to bring it every day. Play aggressive on defense and execute on offense.”

Sanders drives against the Bonneville Lakers

New season, same goals

As Sanders gets her senior season underway, building a connection with teammates and guiding the younger players is a role she embraces. Getting better each day and game as a player and team is a goal of a Sanders and the Titans squad. 

“My goals this year are to just build off of last year,” said Sanders. “I try to grow and get better in every opportunity I am given. Our team goal is to improve daily and work towards a region championship.”

Sanders’ work ethic, effort, and ability to never be satisfied have been part of her since a young age. Sanders is rock solid every game and in total control of the game and every possession’s emotional ups and downs.

“My dad has been one of my biggest motivators,” said Sanders. “He has been my coach since I was a kid. He always taught me that no matter your performance, you can always control your effort and give 100 percent.”

Relentless effort is what you will always see from Sanders on the court. Playing defense is about attitude, and Sanders displayed her outstanding ability by leading Region 1 in steals last season with 95 (3.8 per game). Sanders has excellent anticipation, vision, and understanding of what the opponents want to do offensively. 

“My style of play is very defense-oriented,” said Sanders. “I try to focus most of my energy on playing super aggressive defense, which results in easy offense.”

Coach Hamblin also admires the leadership qualities of Sanders.

“She has been a fantastic leader on the basketball floor, and I admire her ability to understand when she needs to take over a game or facilitate to other teammates,” said Hamblin. “She makes our team go, and there are many games that I ask her to play the entire game, and she never skips a beat. Avery is tough to defend because, with her speed, she can take you to the basket, but she also is a great passer and shooter.”

Sanders in the 2023 state playoffs

State playoffs

The last three seasons have seen the Titans have excellent runs in the state playoffs, in 2021, they had a quarterfinal appearance, then loss to the Lone Peak Knights. In 2022 and 2023, the Titans have fallen to the Skyridge Falcons. Making it deep in the playoffs is a fantastic accomplishment and has given Sanders and the Titans great experience to go even further.

“Making it to Weber State was definitely one of the best moments,” said Sanders. “It was so fun to experience that with my team. The energy and excitement you only experience in the playoffs.”

Multi-sport star

Sanders is a standout soccer player and was a team captain and a captain on the basketball team. Playing both sports and representing the Titans is something Sanders loves and enjoys.

“My favorite is basketball, but I really enjoy the soccer environment and playing with many of my best friends,” said Sanders. “I think soccer helps me a ton to be an all-around athlete. It is very nice to get that little break and play something new but also keep me in shape.”

Family and Titan Nation

Sanders knows the climb to reach the level of success she has had taken people who support her through it all.

“I have to give the credit to my parents,” said Sanders. “They have always supported me and pushed me to be my best. They always ensured I was in a position to be my best. I also want to recognize my high school and club coaches who have helped me be my best.”

Coach Hamblin was also quick to point out the competitive fire displayed by Sanders.

“Avery is a fierce competitor and gives her all every game,” said Coach Hamblin. “She makes our team go, and there are many games that I ask her to play the entire game, and she never skips a beat. I am extremely proud of her and have enjoyed every minute of coaching her these past four years.”

Accomplishments

2023 The Hive Sports Girls Basketball Region 1 First Team

2023 Standard-Examiner All-Area 3rd Team

2023 Standard-Examiner Region 1 First Team

2023 Deseret News girls basketball 6A All-State 2nd Team

2023 The Hive Sports Region 1 All-Defensive Team

Team captain on basketball and soccer teams

photos courtesy James Tate