Wasatch Front High Schools Make a Statement at the Tarkanian Classic
TIMPVIEW VS OREM!
The Tarkanian Classic is in the books—but it didn’t end without setting the stage. All eyes now turn to January 9 as Timpview travels to Orem High in a must-see Utah high school showdown.
By Utah Sports Ink Staff / Mountain & Main
LAS VEGAS — When the final buzzer sounded at the Tarkanian Classic, one thing was clear: Wasatch Front high school basketball traveled well and played even better.
Fifteen Utah boys varsity basketball teams competed across nine divisions in one of the nation’s premier holiday tournaments, facing elite programs from across the country. By the time the weeklong event wrapped up in Las Vegas (Dec. 16–23), Utah schools had posted an impressive 40–16 combined record, with multiple division championships and a clear message sent beyond state lines.
Utah Champions in Las Vegas
Three Utah programs went a perfect 4–0, capturing division titles and reinforcing the depth of talent along the Wasatch Front:
Ogden – BallerTV Division Champions
East – Division Champions
Salem Hills – Foot Locker Division Champions
Each team navigated diverse matchups against out-of-state competition and emerged unbeaten, highlighting Utah’s ability to compete at every level of the tournament.
Platinum Division: Orem and Timpview Tested on the Big Stage
The spotlight division — Platinum High School Division powered by Crocs — featured 17 teams from eight states and represented the highest level of play at the tournament. Utah was well-represented by Timpview and Orem, two 5A programs accustomed to big moments.
Timpview advanced to the championship game before suffering its first loss of the season, falling 70–56 to Redondo Union (CA).
Orem finished 2–2, competing admirably against the same elite field, including a matchup with Redondo Union.
The championship loss provided a revealing look at Timpview’s current challenges. Redondo Union, though smaller in size, overwhelmed the Thunderbirds with quickness, speed, and physical play, repeatedly attacking the basket and finishing through contact. Timpview’s perimeter shooting never found rhythm, as Redondo’s pressure limited clean looks and disrupted offensive flow.
A Glimpse at What’s Coming: Orem vs. Timpview
What makes the Platinum Division results especially intriguing is what comes next.
Orem may possess the style, skill set, and athletic profile that mirrors some of the challenges Redondo Union presented. Their ability to defend, attack downhill, and play with pace could pose real problems for Timpview as the season progresses.
Utah high school basketball fans won’t have to wait long for answers.
Friday, January 9 — 7:00 PM
Timpview at Orem High School
It’s shaping up to be one of the marquee in-state matchups of the season — a classic Utah high school environment filled with energy, noise, and intensity.
Strong Performances Across the Board
Beyond the championship runs, several Utah teams delivered notable performances:
Lone Peak went 3–1, picking up wins over programs from California and Texas.
Layton, Alta, and Timpanogos each posted 3–1 records, showing depth and competitiveness.
Bingham, Springville, Herriman, Cyprus, Maple Mountain, and Wasatch all battled through tough schedules, gaining valuable experience against national competition.
Utah Basketball on the National Radar
The Tarkanian Classic once again proved why it’s a measuring stick event — and this year, Utah measured up.
From undefeated division champions to high-level tests in the Platinum Division, Wasatch Front programs didn’t just participate — they competed, won, and earned respect. As teams return home and refocus on region play, the performances in Las Vegas will echo into January and beyond. And with Timpview vs. Orem looming, the next chapter of Utah’s high school basketball story is already set.