Each year since 2006, MaxPreps has recognized outstanding performers in
high school basketball. America's source for high school sports
continues the tradition to close out the 2022-23 season by naming the
top player in each state. Selections are based on team success and
individual excellence in addition to local and state accolades.
Zoom Diallo of
Curtis (University Place) is the 2022-23 MaxPreps Washington High School Basketball Player of the Year. The 6-foot-4 junior guard led the Vikings to a 28-3 record and second consecutive Class 4A state championship.
Diallo averaged an even 20.0 points per game on the season. After putting up 25 in a semifinal win over Federal Way, he tallied 21 points and six rebounds in a 49-43 victory over league rival Olympia in the title game.
MaxPreps Washington Player of the Year Zoom Diallo surveys the floor during a December win over state power O'Dea. (Photo: Paul Caldwell)
Curtis has compiled a 54-6 mark over the past two seasons thanks in large part to Diallo and running mate
Tyce Paulsen.
Regarded as a top 10 prospect in the Class of 2024 by 247Sports, Diallo will decide between collegiate suitors Arizona, Florida State, Gonzaga, Kansas, USC and Washington in the near future.
Tyler Bilodeau of
Kamiakin (Kennewick) was the 2021-22 Washington Player of the Year.
Currently a freshman at Oregon State University, Bilodeau averaged 23.1 points and 10.3 rebounds last season to help the Braves reach the state semifinals.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for
inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team, which will be released in
April. Past selections include 2023 NBA All-Stars Bam Adebayo (2016),
Jaylen Brown (2015), DeMar DeRozan (2008), Kevin Durant (2006), Anthony
Edwards (2019), De'Aaron Fox (2016), Jrue Holiday (2008), Jaren Jackson
(2017), Kyrie Irving (2010), Julius Randle (2013), Jayson Tatum (2016)
and Zion Williamson (2018).
