CIF Los Angeles City Section Players to Watch Pt. 1

David Yapkowitz

January 29, 2021 @ 02:30 PM

Los Angeles City Section used to produce the best high school basketball talent in the entire SoCal area. Teams like Crenshaw and Manual Arts were regulars when it came to competing for city championships. The high school basketball landscape has changed a lot since then. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t still some strong talent at some of these schools, talent that could certainly help a college team at any level. Many of these schools are in historically underrepresented and underfunded areas, and these players have less opportunity to be seen and evaluated by college coaches. Here’s a quick look at some of those players who should be on some radars this season. 1. [player_tooltip player_id="160297" first="Ameerah" last="Ali"] - Crenshaw 2021 When I first saw Ali play, her defense was what stood out the most to me. She applies strong pressure and forces the ball-handler to pick up their dribble. She can also force a difficult pass or shot. Keeps her arms high and feet set and picks up at midcourt. Looks to have a bigger role in the offense as a senior. She can handle the ball and shoot off the dribble. Good three-point shooter. 2. [player_tooltip player_id="164767" first="Dikara" last="Franklin"] - King/Drew 2023 Franklin’s tenacity is what stands out the most to me. She’s small, even for a guard, but don’t let that fool you. She’s as tough as they come and doesn’t back down from anyone. She’s a blur in transition and can get to the rim in a hurry. Finishes strong over big defenders. Very good ball-handler with a strong off the dribble game. She directs the offense like a vet. She’s just an overall tough player with a good future. 3. Sherisse Chensam - Hamilton 2021 Chensam is another defensive standout. She’s long and mobile and she plays strong on-ball defense. She also plays good denial defense off-ball. Offensively. she keeps herself moving on the court, doesn’t remain stationary and makes herself a threat to score. She can shoot well from three-point range. Solid in transition, she runs the floor and can make a move to the rim off the dribble. Should have a big senior year.