The September Rankings Update: A Look at the Evaluation Points

Nine months into the existence of the Kansas site of Prep Girls Hoops the second rankings update has been completed.  Beginning September 9, with the class of 2020, each rankings update will be released across the succeeding days.  The class of 2023 list, to be released September 12, will be an initial watch list. Some months ago I released a free article describing what goes into ranking decisions for Prep Girls Hoops Kansas.  What I want to share now are a few things I have learned since the first update in March and some notes about the upcoming releases. #1. There has been substantial seesawing in rankings for some players.  Take the swings with some levity.  The March lists were lengthier than the initial, January release, but were far from as comprehensive as I would have liked.  Some kids were missed or ranked lower due to lack of information. For this update the 2020-2022 lists have become far more inclusive and extensive.  A result will be some players declining substantially in rank.  Declines are not a reflection of a decline in ability.  Rather, the declines are a result of discovery of additional players and an increase in the ability of those previously ranked. #2. Players do get overlooked or under-ranked.  Information about players is drawn from conversations with high school, club, and collegiate coaches; other Prep Girls Hoops contributors including those that comment on players standing out in competitions located outside of Kansas; a variety of video sources; and evaluations and comments appearing on other sites and twitter feeds.  As diverse as the information sources are, assembling the data into something representative of the player is a continuous challenge. #3. The lack of information about players is the primary reason players are not included on a list.  Currently, there is a substantial pool of 2020 and 2021 players who have not been included in the rankings.  Coaches who do not submit accurate rosters and statistics to MaxPreps are doing their players, club coaches, and collegiate recruiters a serious disservice.  Please take a look at this recent five-year agreement between the Kansas State High School Activities Association and MaxPreps.  It reinforces the need to contribute information.  Club coaches who do not submit timely and accurate information on their players for tournament coaches packets also do a disservice. #4.  I have learned that the majority of the media sources I get information from only share what good things stand out about a player.  Specific areas of verified weakness or needing improvement are included when appropriate. Again, look for the release of updated rankings beginning September 9.  Also, the 2023 list is brief and is a watch list.  We welcome nominations. Contact me via twitter (@RobertPGHKansas), email (RPGHKansas@gmail.com), or post in the comments area.