Top Defensive Players of 2022

In the 2022 class, there are several players that made a mark defensively either through their quickness, length, skill, or all three. [player_tooltip player_id="158513" first="Abby" last="Graham"] of St. Mary’s Academy and Cleveland’s [player_tooltip player_id="158523" first="Gretta" last="Baker"] were two examples of all-around talented players that used their presence on the court to ignite a flame for their respective teams defensively. You also have the great size and skill of players like South Medford’s [player_tooltip player_id="158520" first="Sierra" last="Logue"] and [player_tooltip player_id="158521" first="Sarah" last="Lamet"], which translate at a high level within the inside parameters of a defense. Then you have super athletes like [player_tooltip player_id="158535" first="Peyton" last="Gardner"] from Bend, the speedster point guard whose mother played at the University of Montana. Here are the top defenders in Oregon from the class of 2022, a truly special group of talent. [player_tooltip player_id="158513" first="Abby" last="Graham"] 2022 5’10" SG St. Mary’s Academy - Offensively, Abby is a do-it all special guard whose engine is kicked off by her extremely high motor throughout the game. She uses this same formula defensively, as she makes the high rotations, is quick on her feet, and makes it difficult for her assignment throughout the game. Her aggressive, fearless demeanor is what drives her on this end of the floor, as it accounts for rebounds, steals, and overall stops for St. Mary’s. Is an important part of Blues' defensive identity night in, night out. [player_tooltip player_id="158520" first="Sierra" last="Logue"] 2022 6’3" C South Medford HS - Lanky long post for South Medford that utilizes her skills all across the board defensively. She uses her great wingspan in a big way, by asserting herself in the middle and altering and blocking shots that come her way. She rebounds well based on size and skill, making it difficult for opponents to get an offensive rebound. Good overall instincts and awareness that will continue to become a dominant force inside. [player_tooltip player_id="158521" first="Sarah" last="Lamet"] 2022 6’3" C Tigard HS - Big time player for Tigard that is incredibly tall and lengthy with a lot of upside. The obvious dimensions to her game are her 6’3” height and sensational wingspan, but the difference maker for Lamet is her attitude and overall approach to the game. She is a gamer and isn’t afraid of the big match-up, as described with her battle with Tualatin’s [player_tooltip player_id="158478" first="Natalie" last="Lathrop"]. She is an aggressive defender that steps up and contests shots and sets the tone inside for Tigard. [player_tooltip player_id="158523" first="Gretta" last="Baker"] 2022 5’10" SF Cleveland HS - Gretta is an active, dynamic guard for Cleveland who gets it done all over the court. On the defensive end, she slides her feet and keeps up with her opposition, and uses her arms to pester the defender. This results in quite a bit of steals for the guard, who has no problem turning it into an offensive opportunity for her team. Pure effort and determination is what makes Baker an anchor for her team defensively. [player_tooltip player_id="158526" first="JaLay" last="Burns"] 2022 2022 5’2" PG Irrigon HS - Sensational on ball defender, as she truly is engaged at all times and chooses to defend the team’s best player. Active feet, great reaction time, and full fledged effort are the reasons why she is amongst the best defenders in the State. Jalay has great lateral speed and can turn the corner once she obtains the steal, as she is dangerous in the open court. Has played against and defended Washington’s top player, Talia Von Oelhoffen. [player_tooltip player_id="158519" first="Sofia" last="Megert"] 2022 5’4" PG South Eugene HS - This quick point guard has a natural talent for the defensive end, getting key stops for South Eugene frequently. Her awareness as well as quick reactions to her environment is a huge plus for her team as it really makes a difference having such a leader out there. As soon as her defender pops out with the ball on the perimeter, Megert uses active feet and hands to keep the opposition on their toes. [player_tooltip player_id="158535" first="Peyton" last="Gardner"] 2022 5’6” PG Bend HS - Peyton is a three-sport athlete at Bend, where she competes and excels in soccer, basketball, and track and field for the Lava Bears. Her foot speed from soccer and the track translate onto the hardwood, where she combines it with her instincts and effort to become the player that she is. She is a persistent defender, is always engaged, and has incredibly active hands that can pry the ball out. Gardner is a magnificent defensive leader on the court and she is just as fast and dangerous out in the open court.