CIF City Section Open Division Players to Watch

It’s been a very weird high school basketball regular season this year as games were postponed until spring and AAU play happened right alongside school play. But the regular season was able to happen relatively smooth and CIF playoffs are finally here. There were a few players who raised their stock throughout both the high school and AAU season and a few who could be key impact players as the quest for a CIF championship begins. Here’s a quick look at some of those players in the CIF City Section Open Division who could be real difference makers in the postseason. <strong>1. [player_tooltip player_id="160297" first="Ameerah" last="Ali"] - Crenshaw 2021</strong> A Mississippi Valley State commit, Ali is a terrific defensive player. It was her defense that initially stood out to me the first time I saw her play. She applies strong pressure on the ball-handler and can force them into turnovers or difficult passes. She doesn’t mind picking up at midcourt. Offensively, she’s comfortable with the ball in her hands. She can attack and shoot off the bounce. Has consistent range out to the three-point line. <strong>2. Rylei Waugh - Westchester 2023</strong> Waugh had a strong showing during the winter at the We-Run open runs and playing with Cal Storm. She’s coming into her own as a real point guard and floor leader. She’s got a quick first step and has a knack for getting to the rim. Can finish strong over bigger defenders. She can shoot off the dribble and she can pull up for a jumper in transition. Good at drawing contact and getting to the line. Solid defensive player. <strong>3. [player_tooltip player_id="160298" first="Ivy" last="Scott"] - Palisades 2021</strong> Scott’s defensive impact is something that make a real difference in the playoffs. She’s a very good on-ball defender who slides her feet well and contests shots. Good size and length for a wing player, she’s in the mold of a bigger wing and she does a solid job contesting shots at the rim. She’s a mobile player who is able to handle the ball and she can take advantage of smaller players in the paint with post-ups. <strong>4. [player_tooltip player_id="261588" first="Sherisse" last="Chensam"] - Hamilton 2021</strong> Chensam is another player who can have a big impact on the defensive end. She’s long and mobile and can move well on the wing guarding perimeter players. She’s solid on-ball and does a good job with off-ball denial. Offensively, she’s active, she’s never stationary. She can spot up and shoot from three-point range. Runs the floor well in transition and fills in the lanes.