Valley High Makes History: A Season to Remember for Coach Green and the Patriots
For decades, Valley High School had been searching for its breakthrough moment in boys basketball. In 2025, under the leadership of Head Coach Aaron Green, that moment finally arrived. The Patriots didn’t just have a great year—they had a historic one. With a program-best 34-4 record, their first-ever state championship appearance, and the first regional title since 1984, this winter season will forever be remembered as a turning point in Valley High athletics.
What made it all possible? A perfect storm of emerging talent, seasoned leadership, and a brotherhood built on resilience and belief.
Star Power and Team Depth: The Winning Formula
The Patriots' meteoric rise to the state finals wasn’t fueled by one superstar—it was a complete team effort, with key players stepping up in big ways all season long.
Kanyon Taylor, a 6'9" junior, was the anchor on both ends of the floor. Averaging 16 points and 3.5 blocks per game, Taylor dominated the paint while also posing a threat from beyond the arc. His all-around skill set earned him District MVP honors, as well as 1st Team All-Region and 2nd Team All-State selections.
But it was his younger brother, Corbin Taylor, who arguably stole the spotlight. Standing at 6'7", the freshman phenom averaged 19 points and 10 rebounds per game, making an immediate impact as a dual inside-outside threat. Corbin's standout play earned him Newcomer of the Year, 1st Team All-Region, and 1st Team All-State honors—a testament to the bright future ahead of him.
Leadership came from the veteran core, most notably Tailor Green, a 6'1" senior known for his lockdown defense and court vision. Named the team’s Defensive MVP, Green was instrumental in setting the tone with his intensity, leading the team in steals and assists.
Meanwhile, Evan Meyer, the 5'7" senior sharpshooter, caught fire during district play, averaging 15 points per game and earning Co-MVP honors. His timely shooting often changed the course of games and gave the Patriots a reliable perimeter weapon.
From Team Trip to Team Triumph
While talent was never in question, it was chemistry and character that truly elevated the Patriots this season. According to Coach Green, one major turning point came off the court.
“Our team bonding trip to Garden City really helped the guys gel,” he explained. “That’s when they started to understand the power of unity.”
That newfound connection paid off in high-pressure moments—none more memorable than the playoff matchups against Happy, where Valley trailed late into the fourth quarter but never folded. Their grit, trust, and tenacious defense led to incredible comeback wins, showing what they were made of.
The regional final against Wildorado was another defining moment. “They were heavily favored,” Green said. “But our team’s fight and belief in each other carried us through.”
Role Players Who Rose to the Occasion
While the spotlight often fell on the starting five, Valley’s success hinged just as much on their bench. Several players grew into larger roles as the season unfolded, providing the depth and versatility needed for a deep playoff run.
Damian Valdes, a sophomore point guard, blossomed into the team’s floor general. His poise, elite ball-handling, and defensive tenacity gave Valley an edge on both ends. As Coach Green put it, “He really led the team, directing the offense and guarding the other team’s best players.”
Carson Tucker, named Sixth Man of the Year, became the ultimate utility player. Able to fill in at any position, Tucker’s hustle and high IQ allowed the Patriots to maintain their tempo and intensity even when starters rested. His clutch performances in the playoffs were pivotal.
Two seniors, Leo Cruz and Taevion Ramos, were also critical off the bench. Their defensive prowess and ability to play multiple positions gave Coach Green key options during tight games.
Seniors Leave Their Legacy
The 2025 senior class may have only had four players, but their impact was immeasurable. They led by example, held teammates accountable, and brought passion and focus to every practice and game. Whether on the floor or cheering from the sidelines, they uplifted the entire squad.
“They’ll be missed,” Coach Green said, “not just for their leadership and performance, but for the energy they brought every single day.”
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for the Patriots
With four key rotation players graduating, the natural question is: What’s next? For Coach Green, the answer is simple—more opportunity.
“We return three starters and our sixth man. That gives us a strong foundation,” he shared. “We’ll just need to fill one starting spot and develop some bench depth.”
Most importantly, two of the team’s top three scorers—Kanyon and Corbin Taylor—will be back. Their presence ensures that Valley will continue to be a force offensively, even as they integrate new faces into the lineup.
Offseason Focus: Sharpening the Edges
To continue building on this year’s momentum, the coaching staff is zeroing in on two key areas for improvement: perimeter defense and outside shooting. With the graduation of Evan Meyer and others, the team will need to find new threats from long range and tighten up their defensive rotations on the perimeter.
“These are areas that will be the focus in the offseason,” Green said. “We want to make sure we’re just as dangerous from the outside next year and tougher to score on.”
The Legacy of 2025: More Than Wins
As the dust settles on a dream season, the achievements of the 2025 Patriots go beyond stats and trophies. They changed the culture. They proved that Valley High could compete at the highest level. And they did it with heart, hustle, and humility.
This wasn’t just a team—it was a family. And thanks to their dedication, teamwork, and belief in one another, they’ve written a chapter of Valley High history that will inspire future Patriots for years to come.
You can revisit their season stats and highlights at MaxPreps.
Final Word from Coach Green:
“This team showed what’s possible when you trust each other and play for something bigger than yourself. I couldn’t be more proud.”
And with that spirit, the Patriots look ahead, ready to defend their legacy and continue building a championship tradition.
Share With