Hope Scholastic Showcase Top Bigs

The weekend of Oct.12-13, Hope International University in Fullerton, CA played host to the Hope Scholastic Showcase featuring some of the top high school basketball teams in the Southern California area, as well as Bella Vista Prep from Arizona, and Centennial from Nevada. There was plenty of good talent on display. I was able to attend the event on Sat. Oct 12, and here’s a look at some of the top bigs that I saw throughout the day. <strong>1. Kimberly Villalobos – Chaminade 2020</strong> A recent San Diego State commit, Villalobos was one of the most versatile bigs there. Together with Alexis Whitfield, they form one of the top frontcourts in the LA area. Villalobos is capable of scoring in multiple ways. She can play in the post and has a nice touch around the rim. She is also able to handle the ball and create for herself. She can shoot well from mid-range and she can shoot off the dribble. She’s very active on the glass and on the defensive end. <strong>2. Alexis Whitfield – Chaminade 2020</strong> Whitfield recently committed to Washington, and watching her play, it’s easy to see why she drew interest from a Power 5 conference. She’s one of the most versatile bigs in SoCal, there’s not much she can’t do on the court. She has great court vision and is a solid passer out of the post. She can bring the ball up court and make plays. She’s strong in the post and she has a nice little hook shot. Good rebounder and strong defender. <strong>3. Meaali’i Amosa – Mater Dei 2021</strong> Amosa is one of the top up and coming bigs in the area. She recently received an offer from Cal State Fullerton, and will likely continue to garner college consideration as she continues to develop. She already is a strong rebounder who positions herself well in the paint to crash the glass. She can set screens well too. Offensively, she has a bit of a soft touch around the rim and she can step out and shoot a little bit from mid-range. Solid interior defender as well. <strong>4. Ashlee Lewis – Long Beach Poly 2020</strong> Lewis, a Cal State Fullerton commit, is a strong interior presence. She runs the floor well in transition and is always ready to catch a pass from a teammate. In the half-court, she establishes position well in the post. She’s strong in the paint and makes decisive moves with good footwork around the rim. She’s got a soft touch when it comes to scoring. An active presence on the glass both offensively and defensively.