The Mojave Rattlers are a team on a mission, poised and ready to defend their 2022 4A State Championship title. They start their quest against Cheyenne High School in the first round of the playoffs this Thursday. With an outstanding season behind them, boasting a record of 20-5 and an undefeated league play, the young and talented Mojave roster is completely locked in and laser-focused on the task at hand. These young men have fully embraced Coach Clark's program and are determined to leave it all on the court in this must-win game.
Proszn had the exclusive opportunity to join a Mojave practice, and from the start, it was clear that this was a championship-caliber team. The intense yet harmonious flow of practice was something to behold. It was like watching a world-class orchestra at work. Every drill effortlessly transitioned into the next, and each player embraced their role, with Coach Clark at the helm, conducting his team like a maestro.
The Rattlers have a lot to be confident about this year, with CJ Shaw leading the charge. Despite being only a sophomore, Shaw has put in an amazing season and is in the driver's seat to claim his second State Championship. When asked about Shaw's leadership, Coach Clark had high praise for him, saying that he does everything right and shows up on the big stages. Shaw averages an impressive 21.8 PPG and 3.5 steals per game, but he has not done it alone, with strong support from players like G. Chapman and Z. Jackson.
Coach Clark has done an exceptional job putting together an incredible coaching staff for his players, including former NV Gatorade Player of the Year Thomas McTyer. When asked about how the staff has prepared the team mentally to embrace this title defense, Assistant Coach McTyer said that they make sure to practice them how they play them in games, getting up and down the floor and controlling the tempo. They've put the kids in situations where they play against higher competition and try to keep them in situations that are high level.
The Mojave Rattlers are locked in and ready to compete, not looking past the Desert Shield despite beating them 74-47 in their last matchup. They're a championship-caliber team with a lot of young talent and an impressive coaching staff, and Proszn will be following them closely as they defend their championship. It's sure to be an exciting game this Thursday, and Mojave fans are in for a treat.
PHOTOS BY: TIMEBURNER
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