Sun Prep Athletes of the Week: Demario Butler and Katie Williams

Thursday, Feb. 13, 2003 | 9:21 a.m.

For Feb. 13, 2003

DEMARIO BUTLER

School: Rancho

Class: Senior

Sport: Basketball

Last week: After struggling early in their conference schedule, the Rams are charging toward the Sunrise Region playoffs thanks in large part to DeMario Butler. Last week, Rancho downed Eldorado and Desert Pines. In the Rams' 76-60 triumph over the Jaguars, Butler, a 6-foot-3 senior, poured in 27 points to lead the way. Butler preceded that big performance with another strong showing, a 26-point effort in a 54-53 win over Eldorado. Butler scored the winning basket with nine seconds left against the Sundevils. After defeating Las Vegas Wednesday at home, Rancho is in position to win the Northeast Division.

KATIE WILLIAMS

School: Desert Pines

Class: Freshman

Sport: Basketball

Last week: As Desert Pines continues its push toward the Sunrise Region playoffs, the Jaguars are getting some major contributions from one of their youngest players. Freshman Katie Williams scored in double figures in Desert Pines' victories last week against Valley and Rancho. In the Jaguars' 59-53 upset win over Valley, Williams pitched in with 18 points and 13 rebounds. Williams came back two nights later and spearheaded the Jaguars' effort once again, pouring in 14 points en route to a 57-40 triumph over the Rams. Desert Pines has already clinched a playoff berth.