High School Season Preview: 5 Top Defenders In Michigan
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We are pushing ever closer to high school season. Come the winter, the old adage “defense wins championships” usually rings true. There are certainly many players in Michigan that thrive on the defensive end. We’ll take a look at 5…
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Continue ReadingWe are pushing ever closer to high school season. Come the winter, the old adage “defense wins championships” usually rings true. There are certainly many players in Michigan that thrive on the defensive end. We’ll take a look at 5 of, what should be considered, the best defenders in the state this coming season.
Alaina Diaz Alaina Diaz 5'7" | CG Hudsonville | 2022 State MI (2022, CG, Hudsonville)
There’s no way to offset what Diaz brings to the table defensively. It doesn’t matter who you are, most likely she’s going to be faster and more relentless. Her speed on the defensive end is unmatched, not just this year, but probably in recent memory. Diaz’s perimeter D was a big piece of a state championship puzzle.
Nyemah Hodo Nyemah Hodo 5'11" | C Ecorse | 2023 State MI (2023, C, Ecorse)
Hodo is one of the best shot blocking post players in the state of Michigan. She uses her length to send shots back. Hodo does a nice job walling up by the rim and playing vertical defense. She seems to, at the least, alter almost every shot near the rim. Hodo will be a game changing defender this winter.
Sarah Rambus Sarah Rambus 6'4" | PF IMG ACADEMY | 2023 State FL (2023, PF, Flushing)
Rambus has all the tools needed to be an elite defender. She’s a long post defender, but also carries elite athleticism which makes her a huge threat on that end. Rambus moves so well in the paint and seems to always be on time with her help defense. She could step in the college game right now and be a plus defender.
Amanda Roach Amanda Roach CG Hartland | 2022 State MI (2022, CG, Hartland)
I love watching Roach on the defensive end of the floor. She keeps a low base and can defend the length of the floor. Roach doesn’t just trap at half court, she attacks the ball handler. She’s a prime example of turning defense into offense. Roach consistently creates turnovers and pushes the ball off a swipe.
Rachel Williams Rachel Williams 5'8" | PF Canton | 2023 State MI (2023, PF, Canton)
If you have Canton on your schedule this season, you need to remember this name. She’s not really tall or supremely athletic. But what she is, is more physically tough, strong, and hard-nosed than most. Williams can defend a player effectively, no matter what their size. She has a fighting chance to shut down any post player in Michigam.