Dayton D1: Early Teams to Watch 2019-20
The month of June is over, and so is the offseason for high school girls basketball in Ohio. I had to chance to see several teams at various events, and have put together a group of five teams in each…
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Continue ReadingThe month of June is over, and so is the offseason for high school girls basketball in Ohio. I had to chance to see several teams at various events, and have put together a group of five teams in each division to watch for when practice begins in late October, and into the 2019-20 season.
Today a look at the 5 Division 1 teams who I expect to lead the way this season:
Beavercreek- they lost some nice players from last season, but also return a lot of strong talent. Anna Landing returns as a D1 recruit, a 6-1 junior who can go inside or outside. Morgan and Maci Rhoades are back looking to make an impact, while juniors Alyssa Hall and Trinity Bean also can play a big factor this season.
Centerville- strong as usual, even though they lost some key players from last year. Junior Amy Velasco showed why she is considered one of the top point guards in Ohio, as she can shine against the highest competition. Kenzie Smith is another junior who is going to be a factor. Sophomore Cotie McMahon is one of the top two sophomore players in Ohio, and at times, was unstoppable on the floor. Watch for freshman Kendal George, a sharpshooter who can light up a defense.
Fairmont- anytime you have twin towers like Madeline Westbeld and Madison Bartley to contend with, you are already behind the eight-ball. Westbeld is the top junior in Ohio, Bartley is committed to Belmont and in the upper echelon of seniors. Kierra Thornton is a senior who will get her chance to shine, along with Makira Webster, who has next-level skills.
Springboro- this will be a fun group to watch this season, as they have solid talent at all positions. Seniors McKel Nation, Olivia Majors and Jordan Crase looks to be the leaders, while Jordon Hobbs looks to add to her great sophomore season. Peyton Nation is another key junior, while some sophomores to watch are Haley Crozier and Isabella Cassoni.
Wayne- returns a lot of firepower and ready to make a big run. They are solid and deep up and down the bench. A trio of talented seniors with Nyla Hampton (who just verballed to Bowling Green), Jaida Wolfork and Teyarra Johnson. Juniors Bree Hall (maybe the top junior in Ohio) and Lovie Malone lead the way, with sophs Ma’kaylia Lute and Jaleah Stiner. They have the talent to compete with anyone in Ohio, and had a solid summer last month.
Sleeper Team- Sidney: after going winless last season, a new coach and the addition of two key freshman will make them a challenge for most teams in their new league, the Miami Valley League. Watch for Allie Stockton and Lexee Brewer to make an immediate impact.