Local basketball players earn All-State honors
Five high school student athletes representing San Juan County were named to All-State teams for the 2024-2025 winter sports season that recently came to a close.
The Deseret News released its list of girls and boys basketball honorees March 20 and 22 based exclusively on coaches’ votes on nominated players from each team.
The San Juan Record is proud to present each of these outstanding student athletes along with photos and comments from their coaches.
Keiarra Martin
Whitehorse sophomore forward
1A first Team
16.8 Points per game
Head Coach Joni Dickson: “Keiarra ‘Kerri’, our sophomore forward, exemplified a strong work ethic, talent, and perseverance throughout her performance this season. She was named to the All-Tournament Team at the Antelope Holiday Classic, named MVP at the Southwest Food Excellence Winter Classic, and was selected for the 1A All-State First Team.
“As a sophomore, Kerri has set a high standard in performance, scoring, rebounding, etc. These are stats we know she will continue to break for the next two years. Her work ethic athletically and academically shows how self-motivated she is to make great things happen for the next two years of high school ...and beyond high school.
“Kerri motivates and challenges her team at practice. She loves to make those around her laugh and is very caring when it comes to her siblings. We are incredibly grateful for Kerri’s dedication and hard work.”
Heidi Clark
Whitehorse senior guard
1A second Team
12.1 Points per game
Head Coach Joni Dickson: “Heidi, our senior guard and captain, exemplified strength, determination, and pride throughout her performance this season. She was in the Utah Top 50 Elite Club. She won the three-point contest at the Antelope Holiday Classic. She was on the1A All-Star Team. And she was chosen for the 1A All-State Second Team. Those honors don’t include the numerous awards she collects during off-season basketball.
“Heidi’s year-round preparation is a testament to who she is as a young woman. She is strong-willed and tenacious. She motivates, teaches, and lifts up her teammates. She is very outgoing and loves to make others laugh. Throughout this season she was a key part of our team’s chemistry.
“The girls created a sisterly bond and we know that is special for everyone. We are proud to have someone like Heidi on our team. Her contributions have made a real difference, and we appreciate her commitment to the team.”
Dakotah Cly
Monument Valley Junior Forward
1A second Team
14.7 Points per game
Head Coach Vanessa Russell: “Dakotah loves the game of basketball and puts in countless hours whether it’s to improve her shooting, work on her post moves, rebounding, or practice her free throws. She guides and encourages her teammates on the court. She has a high basketball IQ to where I could play her at any position on the court.
“When our team needed a basket or a rebound, Dakotah would take on that task. This work ethic is not only in sports but also academically. If she has a goal she will set her mind on it and work towards it. I have no doubt she will be successful in whatever she sets her mind to.”
Tripp Palmer
San Juan junior forward
2A Second Team
16.4 Pts/gm, 8.9 rebounds/gm, 3.7 assists/gm, 1 block/gm
Head Coach Easton Nielson: “I am very happy to see Tripp get some recognition for his efforts this past season. He is a terrific basketball player and an even better kid off the floor. This past season he took a big step up and played a big role for our team. He overcame a pretty scary midseason injury and was still able to do many big things for us down the stretch of the season.
“Tripp has very special ability as an athlete and I often find myself in awe at some of the plays he is able to make. What I am most impressed with though is the effort and work ethic he brings day in and day out. He is a guy who is never late to practice and I feel I can coach as hard as I can because of how receptive he is.
“Tripp is also a player of high character. He does a lot to build other guys up and I have never observed him be anything but positive with his teammates. Lastly, I am most excited that he gets to play for one more year. He will undoubtedly be one of our leaders as we prepare for a successful season next year.”
Hyatt Thomas
Whitehorse Freshman guard
1A honorable mention
14.8 Points per game
Head Coach Evan Grant: “Hyatt was a freshman this past season and this All-State honor confirms his limitless potential to be one of the best high school basketball players in the state for a long time. He is a natural scorer with a smooth shooting stroke and a knack for getting to the basket.
“Hyatt led our team in scoring this season. He is a versatile player who can score from anywhere on the court. He is also a strong rebounder and an excellent passer who creates scoring opportunities for his teammates.
“I am excited about the opportunity to continue coaching Hyatt for the next three years. He is a talented and dedicated player with a bright future in basketball. I look forward to helping him develop his skills and reach his full potential.
“Hyatt is a hard worker and has a great attitude. He is a team player and is always willing to put in extra work. I am excited to see what he can accomplish over the next three years. I am confident that he will be a very valuable asset to our team and will help us achieve our goals.”