2021-2022 Preseason Outlook: Class 3A
In this article:
The featured image is of
Alaina Thorne
Alaina
Thorne
6'0" | PF
Washington | 2022
State
IN
(2022) of Washington High School.
Last Monday, November 1st, teams from all over Indiana were permitted to play official games. With that said, who are the best teams in Class 3A for the 2021-2022 season? Below I have attempted to answer that question as best as possible. This preseason outlook is based solely on how I think teams will stack up this season. Past success isn’t meaningless, but year-in and year-out rosters change, players graduate, Freshmen arrive, and other players transfer. Teams can slide up or down the competitive scale for any number of other reasons as well. In Class 3A, that can be magnified even greater, as just a couple of players can shift the balance of power in the State Tournament.
PRESEASON POLL
1. South Bend Washington (22-6, 2020-2021 Class 3A State Runner-Up)
Where to begin with South Bend Washington...they finished the 2020-2021 season nearly winning a State Title, they return three elite Division-I prospects, two of which are already committed to a Big Ten school, and they have three more Freshmen entering who are all already drawing their share of Division-I interest. So, in summary, they somehow got better. 6-2 Senior forward
Mila Reynolds
Mila
Reynolds
6'2" | PF
South Bend Washington | 2022
State
#32
Nation
IN
(19.0p, 8.9r, 1.9a, 1.4s, 2.2b) leads the charge for the Panthers. The University of Maryland commit has a smooth game inside and out, and she can dominate a game when she puts her mind to it. 6-0 Junior guard
Amiyah Reynolds
Amiyah
Reynolds
6'0" | PG
South Bend Washington | 2023
State
#35
Nation
IN
(9.8p, 7.3r, 6.7a, 3.8s, 1.4b) is as selfless as they come, looking to help facilitate first. She is a tremendous passer at her size, but she can score it when necessary. She recently made a commitment to join her sister at Maryland. Keeping it a family affair, 6-3 Freshman front-liner
Kira Reynolds
Kira
Reynolds
6'4" | PF
South Bend Washington | 2025
State
IN
could wind up being the best of the three sisters long-term, and those siblings alone could help a Class 3A team make a deep playoff run. But there are four other ladies who could significantly affect the lineup this year as well. Junior point guard
RaShunda Jones
RaShunda
Jones
5'7" | PG
South Bend Washington | 2023
State
IN
(17.4p, 4.3r, 3.5a, 4.2s) has continued her meteoric rise in recruiting popularity, and now it’s on a National level. She is extremely quick/fast, and she is an absolute ball-hawk for them. Senior forward
Shamarah Allen
Shamarah
Allen
5'8" | SF
South Bend Washington | 2022
State
IN
(7.6p, 4.9r, 2.4s) brings an attitude and toughness to the lineup, plus she is a versatile and athletic wing defender. Freshman forward
Monique Mitchell
Monique
Mitchell
5'11" | SF
South Bend Washington | 2025
State
IN
brings an incredible motor, toughness, and some versatility, while Freshman guard
Ryiah Wilson
Ryiah
Wilson
5'8" | CG
South Bend Washington | 2025
State
IN
adds another wiry, athletic guard who can play both on and off the ball effectively. The Panthers are obviously talented, but they also might just be the best team in the state, regardless of class, as they do a nice job of playing together.
2. Mishawaka Marian (19-5 in 2020-2021)
Mishawaka Marian is one of the best teams in Class 3A, without question. But the hardest part of their season is the fact that they have to share a Sectional with South Bend Washington (above). The two rivals played a pair of tough games a year ago, so the Knights aren’t the least bit intimidated. Junior guard
Nevaeh Foster
Nevaeh
Foster
5'8" | CG
Mishawaka Marian | 2023
State
#39
Nation
IN
(20.7p, 3.8r, 3.4a, 3.3s) is back for Marian, and she can fill it up on a nightly basis. The Western Kentucky University commit surpassed the 1000-point mark late last season, and she is one of the smoothest scorer’s in the state. She will likely be relied upon to handle the ball a lot more this year, as point guard McKenzie Hudgen (12.0p, 6.9r, 4.5a, 3.1s) left via graduation. Junior forward
MaKaya Porter
MaKaya
Porter
5'11" | PF
Mishawaka Marian | 2023
State
IN
(17.0p, 7.6r, 1.3a, 2.6s, 2.4b) is also back, and she can help control the boards and defend the interior. Porter is a strong, physical, athletic inside-out threat who plays with an outstanding motor. From there, the Knights will need a number of other girls to step up in a big way. Senior point guard
Kenndall Bethel
Kenndall
Bethel
5'3" | PG
Mishawaka Marian | 2022
State
IN
(6.7p, 1.8r, 2.4a, 1.7s) is a diminutive little water-bug, but she’s extremely quick/fast, and she brings a ton of energy and playmaking ability to the floor. Senior guard Payton Rangel (3.6p, 3.0r, 2.3a, 1.3s) also brings back quality experience, she’s a nice athlete, and she can float between guard positions and act as a scorer or a game manager. Junior forward Shayla Alexander (1.5p, 3.1r), Sophomore guard Karleisha Echols (1.8p, 1.0r), and Senior wing Meghan McCormick (1.5p, 1.8r, 1.1a, 1.0s) are likely the next to be called upon to contribute early this season. If the Knights can get consistent production out of someone or a group other than just Foster and Porter, they can compete with anyone in Class 3A.
3. Benton Central (15-4, 2020-2021 Regional Finalist)
Only three times since the 2007-2008 season have the Bison not won at least a Sectional, and since then, they have made five Semi-State appearances and been a Class 3A State Runner-Up twice. With that said, this might be one of the best teams they’ve had in that span. While Benton Central doesn’t have some of the top-end Division-I talent they’ve had in past years, they have a lot of nice pieces, girls who really understand how to play, girls who understand how to play well together, plus they collectively play extremely hard at both ends of the floor. The top returnee is Senior forward
Kennedy Tolen
Kennedy
Tolen
5'9" | SF
Benton Central | 2022
State
IN
(16.5p, 8.1r, 2.8a, 2.5s). She plays as hard and tough as anyone in the state, she’s an energy-giver who teammates feed off of, plus she’s skilled and can hurt you inside or out. She’s the type of kid who can change a game because of a hustle play at a critical moment. Senior guard
Tressa Senesac
Tressa
Senesac
5'6" | PG
Benton Central | 2022
State
IN
(14.1p, 4.5r, 4.5a, 4.2s) is another high-energy contributor who is always flying around the floor. She creates chaos defensively, but she has also disciplined her game over the years and become a much more efficient lead guard. 6-1 Sophomore post
Sarah Gick
Sarah
Gick
6'1" | C
Benton Central | 2024
State
IN
(11.1p, 8.7r, 1.1a, 1.6s, 1.2b) had some solid outings as a Freshman, but she unfortunately dealt with a lot of intermittent attendance due to contact tracing. If she can get a full season in, she can consistently be a 15-point, 12-rebound kid with this group. From there, the Bison are sort of a "sum of its parts" sort of team, with a number of 5-7 to 5-9 guards and wings who can contribute, and a couple of solid forwards who could step up. Senior forwards Carlee Musser and Courtney Tolen, plus Sophomore wings Sienna Foster and Rachel Tolen could be the first to get a crack and rotation minutes.
4. Salem (20-3 in 2020-2021)
The Salem Lions are always a tough exit during state tournament time, and this season should be no different. They rely on a strong, disciplined system offensively, plus good team defense to wear down opponents most nights. This year the focus will be around a pair of Seniors who have seen action each year of high school. 5-10
Natalie Noel
Natalie
Noel
5'10" | SF
Salem | 2022
State
IN
(14.6p, 5.1r, 2.3a, 1.7s) is a long, wiry-strong, fluid wing shooter who can also handle the ball and act as a point forward for this group. She is a nice multilevel scoring threat who can likely score closer to 20 ppg this Winter. 5-11 front-liner
Abigail Ratts
Abigail
Ratts
5'11" | PF
Salem | 2022
State
IN
(7.8p, 7.0r, 3.1a, 3.0s, 1.4b) is a high-energy athlete with some strength and good bounce to her game. She is extremely active on the boards, she can score it in the mid-post or at the basket, plus she is one of the more athletic kids in Class 3A. Senior guard Macie Tomlinson also returns, and she will need to take on a great deal more responsibility in the backcourt. She is more of a wing shooter/scorer, but if she can score eight or more points each time out, it would really benefit the Lions. Two players who I felt had strong grassroots seasons who could step up are Junior wing
Sydney Brown
Sydney
Brown
5'9" | SF
Salem | 2023
IN
and Senior front-liner Kaylea Klinglesmith. Brown is a strong, broad-shouldered forward who can knock down the occasional jumper or attack the basket North/South. Klinglesmith is a long, wiry-strong, and fairly fluid forward/post who at 6-0 can definitely help on the interior.
5. Tri-West (17-7, 2020-2021 Regional Champion)
Tri-West made a nice postseason run in 2020-2021, playing in the South Semi-State at Jeffersonville High School. While they will certainly miss graduated point guard Grace Sandlin (9.7p, 3.6r, 3.7a, 2.5s), the Bruins return their leading scorer and four of their top five from a year ago. Senior guard
Kenna Kirby
Kenna
Kirby
5'8" | SG
Tri-West | 2022
State
IN
(15.3p, 4.9r, 3.4a, 2.8s) is a shot-maker who can fill it up quickly on any given night. She unfortunately injured her knee over the Summer, but she’s already back playing, and she will only get healthier as the season progresses. Senior guard
Isabelle Saylor
Isabelle
Saylor
5'7" | SG
Tri-West | 2022
State
IN
(9.5p, 2.8r, 2.2a, 2.5s) is a nice compliment to Kirby on the perimeter, because she can knock down shots outside, attack the basket and finish inside, plus she’s somewhat versatile defensively. Senior forward
Adrie Thompson
Adrie
Thompson
5'10" | SF
Tri-West | 2022
State
IN
(9.5p, 4.6r, 1.8a, 1.7s, 1.1b) is a long, fluid, bouncy athlete who makes plays at all three levels. She can score it inside and out, she can protect the paint, and she can defend the perimeter. Senior forward Becca Van Slyke (5.5p, 4.6r, 1.5a, 1.7s) is another frontline option who can help Thompson rebound and defend the interior. Van Slyke could be critical to their success this season. Senior guard Izzy Cotteleer (1.6p, 1.1r) is another veteran with at least some experience who could find her way into a much enhanced role in 2021-2022. Though the Bruins don’t have a great deal of size, look for a cast of veterans to help them replicate their 2020-2021 postseason success.
6. Silver Creek (25-3, 2020-2021 Class 3A State Champion)
The Dragons marched their way to Indianapolis in February and left as the Class 3A State Champs. Now, they must figure out a way to build on that success without the services of 6-0 post Marissa Gasaway (12.4p, 12.2r, 1.2a), wing Alana Striverson (12.4p, 3.7r, 2.9a), and wing Jaclyn Emly (10.9p, 3.6r, 1.8a), all of whom are now playing college basketball. However, don’t write them off just yet. While they might not perform with last year’s dominance, this is still a quality team who can beat just about anyone on any given night. Senior point guard
Kynidi Striverson
Kynidi
Striverson
5'8" | PG
Silver Creek | 2022
State
IN
(10.8p, 5.1r, 4.6a) does return for her final year, and she is a dynamic playmaker who can readily find teammates in positions to score. She was an Indiana Junior All-Star over the Summer, and she has signed to play at the University of Evansville next season. She will need to find the bucket more often herself this Winter. Senior guards
Emme Rooney
Emme
Rooney
5'8" | SG
Silver Creek | 2022
State
IN
(4.7p, 2.7r, 1.0a) and
Sydney Sierota
Sydney
Sierota
5'6" | CG
Silver Creek | 2022
State
IN
(5.1p, 2.4r, 1.4a) are small college prospects who get the opportunity this season to step into more of the spotlight and shine. Both are skilled, versatile, hard-working kids who can handle it a little and score it from all levels. Size and depth will be the biggest factor for this year’s Dragons, as no one else returns having averaged a point or more per game last year. However, there is talent in the pipeline; they just need to get early season experience and gain confidence, because if anyone can provide some consistency on the boards and defensively, Striverson, Rooney, and Sierota can likely fill it up against most opponents.
7. Garrett (20-3 in 2020-2021)
The Railroaders have a bad taste in their mouths from a season ago, and it’s those pesky Hornets of Angola. The Hornets handed Garrett two of their three losses, including the Sectional Championship. But the Railroaders are back, stronger than ever, and they have a veteran cast ready to make waves this year. They have strong play on the perimeter, a solid front-liner, and athletes spread throughout the group. Even though a quartet of Seniors leads this team, it’s a Junior who stands out statistically. Junior wing
Bailey Kelham
Bailey
Kelham
5'10" | SF
Garrett | 2023
State
IN
(16.7p, 4.3r, 1.4a, 2.5s) is a talented athlete who has developed her skillset nicely over the years. She is dominant in the mid-post for this team, but she has a solid handle and she can consistently knock down jumpers when in rhythm. 6-1 Senior forward
Morgan Ostrowski
Morgan
Ostrowski
6'1" | PF
Garrett | 2022
State
IN
(10.7p, 9.5r, 1.7s, 2.2b) is much stronger than her long frame might suggest, but she’s bouncy, fluid, and skillful as well. She creates mismatches up front on a nightly basis. Senior guard
Taylor Gerke
Taylor
Gerke
5'9" | SF
Garrett | 2022
State
IN
(11.0p, 4.4r, 2.3a, 2.6s, 1.0b) was a huge addition last year, as she came over from Lakewood Park Christian. She is a strong, tough-nosed, athletic scoring guard. Senior point guard
Nataley Armstrong
Nataley
Armstrong
5'7" | PG
Garrett | 2022
State
IN
(5.7p, 2.1r, 7.8a, 2.0s) has turned her attention strictly to running the offense and getting stops defensively. She is a pass-first kid with quickness, length, and a tenacity for the game. Senior guard
Faith Owen
Faith
Owen
5'6" | SG
Garrett | 2022
State
IN
(8.1p, 2.7r, 1.7a, 2.0s) is another scrappy little guard who serves as this group’s shooter. She can score it with range, plus she is another feisty defender for Garrett. If the Railroaders can find any semblance of depth this season, they’ll be one of the favorites to come out of that Fort Wayne area in Class 3A.
8. Washington (19-2, 2020-2021 Sectional Champion)
Last season the Hatchets made a nice run to the Regional, leaning on four double-digit scorers to lead the way for them. With Jade Browning (10.2p, 4.0r, 2.4a) having graduated, it’s now on three current Seniors and some youngsters to help Washington to a deep postseason run. 6-0 Senior forward
Alaina Thorne
Alaina
Thorne
6'0" | PF
Washington | 2022
State
IN
(16.0p, 9.1r, 3.7a, 2.3s, 1.2b) was a 2021 Indiana Junior All-Star, and the athletic front-liner can make plays around the rim or in the mid-post. She is long and bouncy, and she plays with a tremendous motor. Senior forward
Kencia Levasseur
Kencia
Levasseur
5'7" | SF
Washington | 2022
State
IN
(15.6p, 9.2r, 4.3a, 2.2s) has dealt with her share of injuries in the past, but she is back and playing once again. Her game is a bit unorthodox, but she is tough-nosed, strong, physical, and skilled inside and out. Senior guard
Jesse Ledgerwood
Jesse
Ledgerwood
5'5" | PG
Washington | 2022
State
IN
(10.3p, 3.8r, 2.4a, 1.4s) had a strong grassroots season, as she shot it well outside, she was solid handling it and making decisions, plus she plays with a tough-nosed attitude and a nonstop motor. From there, the Hatchets can go any number of directions. Freshman
Olivia Gilley
Olivia
Gilley
6'0" | PF
Washington | 2025
IN
is a strong and active power forward who will likely help them in the paint and on the boards. 6-1 Sophomore post
Madelyn Dalton
Madelyn
Dalton
6'1" | C
Washington | 2024
IN
(1.2p) is still in the development stages skillfully, but she is long, bouncy, and active. Junior guard Chloe Browning (3.1p, 2.1r, 1.0a) and Sophomore forward Allison Hill (13 games played) could also be options to turn to early this season. While the trio of Thorne, Levasseur, and Ledgerwood should be enough most nights, the Hatchets could use production from other areas against their toughest opponents.
9. Evansville Memorial (18-5, 2020-2021 Sectional Champion)
Memorial is in a unique situation, as last season they rattled off 13 wins in a row to begin the year, won the Hall of Fame Tournament in impressive fashion, took care of business in the Sectional, then promptly graduated eight Seniors. Among those missing are leading scorer Ryleigh Anslinger (15.8p, 2.8r, 2.1a, 3.3s), forward Peyton Murphy (7.0p, 4.0r, 2.5a, 2.8s), and front-liner Hope Lensing (6.8p, 3.9r, 1.3a, 1.4s). Even minus all of the production they lost, they still return a great deal of young talent and look to potentially be a top team in Class 3A. 5-10 Junior guard
Emily Mattingly
Emily
Mattingly
5'10" | SF
Evansville Memorial | 2023
State
IN
(8.4p, 2.8r, 1.1a, 1.3s) was their second leading scorer last year, and she put together a strong Summer proving to be more than "just a shooter". She is strong, tough-nosed, and plays with a great motor. Sophomore point guard
Avery Kelley
Avery
Kelley
5'6" | PG
Evansville Memorial | 2024
State
IN
(7.6p, 3.4r, 1.5a, 1.9s) broke through and played a lot last season, showing a nice feistiness to her game. She can control tempo and run offense, plus she can find shots and score the ball consistently. 6-0 Sophomore wing
Sophie Johnson
Sophie
Johnson
6'0" | PF
Evansville Memorial | 2024
State
IN
(4.9p, 3.4r, 1.0s) was so impressive throughout the Spring, that a number of Division-I schools were tracking her throughout July. She is a point forward type who can make shots outside or get to the rim and finish. 6-0 Junior forward
Lydia Bordfeld
Lydia
Bordfeld
5'11" | SF
Evansville Memorial | 2023
IN
(4.4p, 3.9r) now gets an opportunity to step up and be more impactful, plus Sophomore guard Sara Beckwith saw a little action at the Varsity level as well. Two Freshmen could also get an early opportunity. Guard
Myla Browning
Myla
Browning
5'11" | SF
Evansville Memorial | 2025
State
IN
enrolled late in the Summer after growing up in the Reitz system, and the 5-10 combo guard is a smooth scorer who knows how to find the basket. Also, 6-1 forward Addisen Gallentine gives the Tigers more height and length along the frontline. She is a bouncy mid-post forward who has a world of potential.
10. Jay County (19-4 in 2020-2021)
Jay County kind of flew under the radar a year ago, but they were strong throughout the season and manage to return all but about five points per game. Leading the list of returnees is 6-0 Junior forward
Renna Schwieterman
Renna
Schwieterman
6'0" | SF
Jay County | 2023
State
IN
(18.2p, 6.0r, 3.8a, 1.9s), an under-the-radar prospect herself. She has a nice combination of size, strength, skill, and athleticism to where she can play exclusively around the perimeter or battle inside if necessary. While she does have multiple Division-I offers, I feel like a number of schools are missing out with her. Senior forward
Madison Dirksen
Madison
Dirksen
5'11" | PF
Jay County | 2022
State
IN
(12.9p, 7.3r, 1.2a, 2.3s) does a lot of the blue-collar work in the mid-post and around the paint for the Patriots. She has some length, solid athleticism, and a really nice motor. Senior guard Izzy Rodgers (8.1p, 2.5r, 1.6a) gives them another capable perimeter returnee who can knock down open shots when in rhythm. 6-0 Junior forward Gabi Bilbrey (2.5p, 4.3r) is another nice athlete who has really improved in the last year and can provide even more depth up front. Junior guard Mabrey McIntire (3.6p, 1.6r, 1.5a) transferred in this year, but she saw action the last couple of years at nearby Winchester Community High School. She will give them another needed perimeter threat. There are several other youngsters who could possibly contribute throughout the season, but the Patriots’ hopes clearly ride on the shoulders of Schwieterman and Dirksen, as they have the last couple of years. I’d look for them to compete for Sectional and Regional titles in 2021-2022.
OTHERS TO KEEP AN EYE ON:
Angola (19-6, 2020-2021 Sectional Champion)
Brownstown Central (19-7, 2020-2021 Sectional Champion)
Charlestown (8-11 in 2020-2021)
Danville (12-11 in 2020-2021)
Gibson Southern (16-6 in 2020-2021)
Greensburg (12-7 in 2020-2021)
Hamilton Heights (18-2, 2020-2021 Sectional Champion)
Indian Creek (17-7, 2020-2021 Sectional Champion)
Kankakee Valley (13-11, 2020-2021 Sectional Champion)
Knox (22-5 in 2020-2021)
Norwell (23-6, 2020-2021 Regional Champion)
Rushville (18-9, 2020-2021 Regional Finalist)
Twin Lakes (14-10 in 2020-2021)
West Lafayette (11-10 in 2020-2021)
West Noble (16-6 in 2020-2021)
Alaina
Thorne
6'0" | PF
Washington | 2022
State
IN
(2022) of Washington High School.
Last Monday, November 1st, teams from all over Indiana were permitted to play official games. With that said, who are the best teams in Class 3A for the 2021-2022 season? Below I have attempted to answer that question as best as possible. This preseason outlook is based solely on how I think teams will stack up this season. Past success isn’t meaningless, but year-in and year-out rosters change, players graduate, Freshmen arrive, and other players transfer. Teams can slide up or down the competitive scale for any number of other reasons as well. In Class 3A, that can be magnified even greater, as just a couple of players can shift the balance of power in the State Tournament.
PRESEASON POLL
1. South Bend Washington (22-6, 2020-2021 Class 3A State Runner-Up)
Where to begin with South Bend Washington...they finished the 2020-2021 season nearly winning a State Title, they return three elite Division-I prospects, two of which are already committed to a Big Ten school, and they have three more Freshmen entering who are all already drawing their share of Division-I interest. So, in summary, they somehow got better. 6-2 Senior forward
Mila Reynolds
Mila
Reynolds
6'2" | PF
South Bend Washington | 2022
State
#32
Nation
IN
(19.0p, 8.9r, 1.9a, 1.4s, 2.2b) leads the charge for the Panthers. The University of Maryland commit has a smooth game inside and out, and she can dominate a game when she puts her mind to it. 6-0 Junior guard
Amiyah Reynolds
Amiyah
Reynolds
6'0" | PG
South Bend Washington | 2023
State
#35
Nation
IN
(9.8p, 7.3r, 6.7a, 3.8s, 1.4b) is as selfless as they come, looking to help facilitate first. She is a tremendous passer at her size, but she can score it when necessary. She recently made a commitment to join her sister at Maryland. Keeping it a family affair, 6-3 Freshman front-liner
Kira Reynolds
Kira
Reynolds
6'4" | PF
South Bend Washington | 2025
State
IN
could wind up being the best of the three sisters long-term, and those siblings alone could help a Class 3A team make a deep playoff run. But there are four other ladies who could significantly affect the lineup this year as well. Junior point guard
RaShunda Jones
RaShunda
Jones
5'7" | PG
South Bend Washington | 2023
State
IN
(17.4p, 4.3r, 3.5a, 4.2s) has continued her meteoric rise in recruiting popularity, and now it’s on a National level. She is extremely quick/fast, and she is an absolute ball-hawk for them. Senior forward
Shamarah Allen
Shamarah
Allen
5'8" | SF
South Bend Washington | 2022
State
IN
(7.6p, 4.9r, 2.4s) brings an attitude and toughness to the lineup, plus she is a versatile and athletic wing defender. Freshman forward
Monique Mitchell
Monique
Mitchell
5'11" | SF
South Bend Washington | 2025
State
IN
brings an incredible motor, toughness, and some versatility, while Freshman guard
Ryiah Wilson
Ryiah
Wilson
5'8" | CG
South Bend Washington | 2025
State
IN
adds another wiry, athletic guard who can play both on and off the ball effectively. The Panthers are obviously talented, but they also might just be the best team in the state, regardless of class, as they do a nice job of playing together.
2. Mishawaka Marian (19-5 in 2020-2021)
Mishawaka Marian is one of the best teams in Class 3A, without question. But the hardest part of their season is the fact that they have to share a Sectional with South Bend Washington (above). The two rivals played a pair of tough games a year ago, so the Knights aren’t the least bit intimidated. Junior guard
Nevaeh Foster
Nevaeh
Foster
5'8" | CG
Mishawaka Marian | 2023
State
#39
Nation
IN
(20.7p, 3.8r, 3.4a, 3.3s) is back for Marian, and she can fill it up on a nightly basis. The Western Kentucky University commit surpassed the 1000-point mark late last season, and she is one of the smoothest scorer’s in the state. She will likely be relied upon to handle the ball a lot more this year, as point guard McKenzie Hudgen (12.0p, 6.9r, 4.5a, 3.1s) left via graduation. Junior forward
MaKaya Porter
MaKaya
Porter
5'11" | PF
Mishawaka Marian | 2023
State
IN
(17.0p, 7.6r, 1.3a, 2.6s, 2.4b) is also back, and she can help control the boards and defend the interior. Porter is a strong, physical, athletic inside-out threat who plays with an outstanding motor. From there, the Knights will need a number of other girls to step up in a big way. Senior point guard
Kenndall Bethel
Kenndall
Bethel
5'3" | PG
Mishawaka Marian | 2022
State
IN
(6.7p, 1.8r, 2.4a, 1.7s) is a diminutive little water-bug, but she’s extremely quick/fast, and she brings a ton of energy and playmaking ability to the floor. Senior guard Payton Rangel (3.6p, 3.0r, 2.3a, 1.3s) also brings back quality experience, she’s a nice athlete, and she can float between guard positions and act as a scorer or a game manager. Junior forward Shayla Alexander (1.5p, 3.1r), Sophomore guard Karleisha Echols (1.8p, 1.0r), and Senior wing Meghan McCormick (1.5p, 1.8r, 1.1a, 1.0s) are likely the next to be called upon to contribute early this season. If the Knights can get consistent production out of someone or a group other than just Foster and Porter, they can compete with anyone in Class 3A.
3. Benton Central (15-4, 2020-2021 Regional Finalist)
Only three times since the 2007-2008 season have the Bison not won at least a Sectional, and since then, they have made five Semi-State appearances and been a Class 3A State Runner-Up twice. With that said, this might be one of the best teams they’ve had in that span. While Benton Central doesn’t have some of the top-end Division-I talent they’ve had in past years, they have a lot of nice pieces, girls who really understand how to play, girls who understand how to play well together, plus they collectively play extremely hard at both ends of the floor. The top returnee is Senior forward
Kennedy Tolen
Kennedy
Tolen
5'9" | SF
Benton Central | 2022
State
IN
(16.5p, 8.1r, 2.8a, 2.5s). She plays as hard and tough as anyone in the state, she’s an energy-giver who teammates feed off of, plus she’s skilled and can hurt you inside or out. She’s the type of kid who can change a game because of a hustle play at a critical moment. Senior guard
Tressa Senesac
Tressa
Senesac
5'6" | PG
Benton Central | 2022
State
IN
(14.1p, 4.5r, 4.5a, 4.2s) is another high-energy contributor who is always flying around the floor. She creates chaos defensively, but she has also disciplined her game over the years and become a much more efficient lead guard. 6-1 Sophomore post
Sarah Gick
Sarah
Gick
6'1" | C
Benton Central | 2024
State
IN
(11.1p, 8.7r, 1.1a, 1.6s, 1.2b) had some solid outings as a Freshman, but she unfortunately dealt with a lot of intermittent attendance due to contact tracing. If she can get a full season in, she can consistently be a 15-point, 12-rebound kid with this group. From there, the Bison are sort of a "sum of its parts" sort of team, with a number of 5-7 to 5-9 guards and wings who can contribute, and a couple of solid forwards who could step up. Senior forwards Carlee Musser and Courtney Tolen, plus Sophomore wings Sienna Foster and Rachel Tolen could be the first to get a crack and rotation minutes.
4. Salem (20-3 in 2020-2021)
The Salem Lions are always a tough exit during state tournament time, and this season should be no different. They rely on a strong, disciplined system offensively, plus good team defense to wear down opponents most nights. This year the focus will be around a pair of Seniors who have seen action each year of high school. 5-10
Natalie Noel
Natalie
Noel
5'10" | SF
Salem | 2022
State
IN
(14.6p, 5.1r, 2.3a, 1.7s) is a long, wiry-strong, fluid wing shooter who can also handle the ball and act as a point forward for this group. She is a nice multilevel scoring threat who can likely score closer to 20 ppg this Winter. 5-11 front-liner
Abigail Ratts
Abigail
Ratts
5'11" | PF
Salem | 2022
State
IN
(7.8p, 7.0r, 3.1a, 3.0s, 1.4b) is a high-energy athlete with some strength and good bounce to her game. She is extremely active on the boards, she can score it in the mid-post or at the basket, plus she is one of the more athletic kids in Class 3A. Senior guard Macie Tomlinson also returns, and she will need to take on a great deal more responsibility in the backcourt. She is more of a wing shooter/scorer, but if she can score eight or more points each time out, it would really benefit the Lions. Two players who I felt had strong grassroots seasons who could step up are Junior wing
Sydney Brown
Sydney
Brown
5'9" | SF
Salem | 2023
IN
and Senior front-liner Kaylea Klinglesmith. Brown is a strong, broad-shouldered forward who can knock down the occasional jumper or attack the basket North/South. Klinglesmith is a long, wiry-strong, and fairly fluid forward/post who at 6-0 can definitely help on the interior.
5. Tri-West (17-7, 2020-2021 Regional Champion)
Tri-West made a nice postseason run in 2020-2021, playing in the South Semi-State at Jeffersonville High School. While they will certainly miss graduated point guard Grace Sandlin (9.7p, 3.6r, 3.7a, 2.5s), the Bruins return their leading scorer and four of their top five from a year ago. Senior guard
Kenna Kirby
Kenna
Kirby
5'8" | SG
Tri-West | 2022
State
IN
(15.3p, 4.9r, 3.4a, 2.8s) is a shot-maker who can fill it up quickly on any given night. She unfortunately injured her knee over the Summer, but she’s already back playing, and she will only get healthier as the season progresses. Senior guard
Isabelle Saylor
Isabelle
Saylor
5'7" | SG
Tri-West | 2022
State
IN
(9.5p, 2.8r, 2.2a, 2.5s) is a nice compliment to Kirby on the perimeter, because she can knock down shots outside, attack the basket and finish inside, plus she’s somewhat versatile defensively. Senior forward
Adrie Thompson
Adrie
Thompson
5'10" | SF
Tri-West | 2022
State
IN
(9.5p, 4.6r, 1.8a, 1.7s, 1.1b) is a long, fluid, bouncy athlete who makes plays at all three levels. She can score it inside and out, she can protect the paint, and she can defend the perimeter. Senior forward Becca Van Slyke (5.5p, 4.6r, 1.5a, 1.7s) is another frontline option who can help Thompson rebound and defend the interior. Van Slyke could be critical to their success this season. Senior guard Izzy Cotteleer (1.6p, 1.1r) is another veteran with at least some experience who could find her way into a much enhanced role in 2021-2022. Though the Bruins don’t have a great deal of size, look for a cast of veterans to help them replicate their 2020-2021 postseason success.
6. Silver Creek (25-3, 2020-2021 Class 3A State Champion)
The Dragons marched their way to Indianapolis in February and left as the Class 3A State Champs. Now, they must figure out a way to build on that success without the services of 6-0 post Marissa Gasaway (12.4p, 12.2r, 1.2a), wing Alana Striverson (12.4p, 3.7r, 2.9a), and wing Jaclyn Emly (10.9p, 3.6r, 1.8a), all of whom are now playing college basketball. However, don’t write them off just yet. While they might not perform with last year’s dominance, this is still a quality team who can beat just about anyone on any given night. Senior point guard
Kynidi Striverson
Kynidi
Striverson
5'8" | PG
Silver Creek | 2022
State
IN
(10.8p, 5.1r, 4.6a) does return for her final year, and she is a dynamic playmaker who can readily find teammates in positions to score. She was an Indiana Junior All-Star over the Summer, and she has signed to play at the University of Evansville next season. She will need to find the bucket more often herself this Winter. Senior guards
Emme Rooney
Emme
Rooney
5'8" | SG
Silver Creek | 2022
State
IN
(4.7p, 2.7r, 1.0a) and
Sydney Sierota
Sydney
Sierota
5'6" | CG
Silver Creek | 2022
State
IN
(5.1p, 2.4r, 1.4a) are small college prospects who get the opportunity this season to step into more of the spotlight and shine. Both are skilled, versatile, hard-working kids who can handle it a little and score it from all levels. Size and depth will be the biggest factor for this year’s Dragons, as no one else returns having averaged a point or more per game last year. However, there is talent in the pipeline; they just need to get early season experience and gain confidence, because if anyone can provide some consistency on the boards and defensively, Striverson, Rooney, and Sierota can likely fill it up against most opponents.
7. Garrett (20-3 in 2020-2021)
The Railroaders have a bad taste in their mouths from a season ago, and it’s those pesky Hornets of Angola. The Hornets handed Garrett two of their three losses, including the Sectional Championship. But the Railroaders are back, stronger than ever, and they have a veteran cast ready to make waves this year. They have strong play on the perimeter, a solid front-liner, and athletes spread throughout the group. Even though a quartet of Seniors leads this team, it’s a Junior who stands out statistically. Junior wing
Bailey Kelham
Bailey
Kelham
5'10" | SF
Garrett | 2023
State
IN
(16.7p, 4.3r, 1.4a, 2.5s) is a talented athlete who has developed her skillset nicely over the years. She is dominant in the mid-post for this team, but she has a solid handle and she can consistently knock down jumpers when in rhythm. 6-1 Senior forward
Morgan Ostrowski
Morgan
Ostrowski
6'1" | PF
Garrett | 2022
State
IN
(10.7p, 9.5r, 1.7s, 2.2b) is much stronger than her long frame might suggest, but she’s bouncy, fluid, and skillful as well. She creates mismatches up front on a nightly basis. Senior guard
Taylor Gerke
Taylor
Gerke
5'9" | SF
Garrett | 2022
State
IN
(11.0p, 4.4r, 2.3a, 2.6s, 1.0b) was a huge addition last year, as she came over from Lakewood Park Christian. She is a strong, tough-nosed, athletic scoring guard. Senior point guard
Nataley Armstrong
Nataley
Armstrong
5'7" | PG
Garrett | 2022
State
IN
(5.7p, 2.1r, 7.8a, 2.0s) has turned her attention strictly to running the offense and getting stops defensively. She is a pass-first kid with quickness, length, and a tenacity for the game. Senior guard
Faith Owen
Faith
Owen
5'6" | SG
Garrett | 2022
State
IN
(8.1p, 2.7r, 1.7a, 2.0s) is another scrappy little guard who serves as this group’s shooter. She can score it with range, plus she is another feisty defender for Garrett. If the Railroaders can find any semblance of depth this season, they’ll be one of the favorites to come out of that Fort Wayne area in Class 3A.
8. Washington (19-2, 2020-2021 Sectional Champion)
Last season the Hatchets made a nice run to the Regional, leaning on four double-digit scorers to lead the way for them. With Jade Browning (10.2p, 4.0r, 2.4a) having graduated, it’s now on three current Seniors and some youngsters to help Washington to a deep postseason run. 6-0 Senior forward
Alaina Thorne
Alaina
Thorne
6'0" | PF
Washington | 2022
State
IN
(16.0p, 9.1r, 3.7a, 2.3s, 1.2b) was a 2021 Indiana Junior All-Star, and the athletic front-liner can make plays around the rim or in the mid-post. She is long and bouncy, and she plays with a tremendous motor. Senior forward
Kencia Levasseur
Kencia
Levasseur
5'7" | SF
Washington | 2022
State
IN
(15.6p, 9.2r, 4.3a, 2.2s) has dealt with her share of injuries in the past, but she is back and playing once again. Her game is a bit unorthodox, but she is tough-nosed, strong, physical, and skilled inside and out. Senior guard
Jesse Ledgerwood
Jesse
Ledgerwood
5'5" | PG
Washington | 2022
State
IN
(10.3p, 3.8r, 2.4a, 1.4s) had a strong grassroots season, as she shot it well outside, she was solid handling it and making decisions, plus she plays with a tough-nosed attitude and a nonstop motor. From there, the Hatchets can go any number of directions. Freshman
Olivia Gilley
Olivia
Gilley
6'0" | PF
Washington | 2025
IN
is a strong and active power forward who will likely help them in the paint and on the boards. 6-1 Sophomore post
Madelyn Dalton
Madelyn
Dalton
6'1" | C
Washington | 2024
IN
(1.2p) is still in the development stages skillfully, but she is long, bouncy, and active. Junior guard Chloe Browning (3.1p, 2.1r, 1.0a) and Sophomore forward Allison Hill (13 games played) could also be options to turn to early this season. While the trio of Thorne, Levasseur, and Ledgerwood should be enough most nights, the Hatchets could use production from other areas against their toughest opponents.
9. Evansville Memorial (18-5, 2020-2021 Sectional Champion)
Memorial is in a unique situation, as last season they rattled off 13 wins in a row to begin the year, won the Hall of Fame Tournament in impressive fashion, took care of business in the Sectional, then promptly graduated eight Seniors. Among those missing are leading scorer Ryleigh Anslinger (15.8p, 2.8r, 2.1a, 3.3s), forward Peyton Murphy (7.0p, 4.0r, 2.5a, 2.8s), and front-liner Hope Lensing (6.8p, 3.9r, 1.3a, 1.4s). Even minus all of the production they lost, they still return a great deal of young talent and look to potentially be a top team in Class 3A. 5-10 Junior guard
Emily Mattingly
Emily
Mattingly
5'10" | SF
Evansville Memorial | 2023
State
IN
(8.4p, 2.8r, 1.1a, 1.3s) was their second leading scorer last year, and she put together a strong Summer proving to be more than "just a shooter". She is strong, tough-nosed, and plays with a great motor. Sophomore point guard
Avery Kelley
Avery
Kelley
5'6" | PG
Evansville Memorial | 2024
State
IN
(7.6p, 3.4r, 1.5a, 1.9s) broke through and played a lot last season, showing a nice feistiness to her game. She can control tempo and run offense, plus she can find shots and score the ball consistently. 6-0 Sophomore wing
Sophie Johnson
Sophie
Johnson
6'0" | PF
Evansville Memorial | 2024
State
IN
(4.9p, 3.4r, 1.0s) was so impressive throughout the Spring, that a number of Division-I schools were tracking her throughout July. She is a point forward type who can make shots outside or get to the rim and finish. 6-0 Junior forward
Lydia Bordfeld
Lydia
Bordfeld
5'11" | SF
Evansville Memorial | 2023
IN
(4.4p, 3.9r) now gets an opportunity to step up and be more impactful, plus Sophomore guard Sara Beckwith saw a little action at the Varsity level as well. Two Freshmen could also get an early opportunity. Guard
Myla Browning
Myla
Browning
5'11" | SF
Evansville Memorial | 2025
State
IN
enrolled late in the Summer after growing up in the Reitz system, and the 5-10 combo guard is a smooth scorer who knows how to find the basket. Also, 6-1 forward Addisen Gallentine gives the Tigers more height and length along the frontline. She is a bouncy mid-post forward who has a world of potential.
10. Jay County (19-4 in 2020-2021)
Jay County kind of flew under the radar a year ago, but they were strong throughout the season and manage to return all but about five points per game. Leading the list of returnees is 6-0 Junior forward
Renna Schwieterman
Renna
Schwieterman
6'0" | SF
Jay County | 2023
State
IN
(18.2p, 6.0r, 3.8a, 1.9s), an under-the-radar prospect herself. She has a nice combination of size, strength, skill, and athleticism to where she can play exclusively around the perimeter or battle inside if necessary. While she does have multiple Division-I offers, I feel like a number of schools are missing out with her. Senior forward
Madison Dirksen
Madison
Dirksen
5'11" | PF
Jay County | 2022
State
IN
(12.9p, 7.3r, 1.2a, 2.3s) does a lot of the blue-collar work in the mid-post and around the paint for the Patriots. She has some length, solid athleticism, and a really nice motor. Senior guard Izzy Rodgers (8.1p, 2.5r, 1.6a) gives them another capable perimeter returnee who can knock down open shots when in rhythm. 6-0 Junior forward Gabi Bilbrey (2.5p, 4.3r) is another nice athlete who has really improved in the last year and can provide even more depth up front. Junior guard Mabrey McIntire (3.6p, 1.6r, 1.5a) transferred in this year, but she saw action the last couple of years at nearby Winchester Community High School. She will give them another needed perimeter threat. There are several other youngsters who could possibly contribute throughout the season, but the Patriots’ hopes clearly ride on the shoulders of Schwieterman and Dirksen, as they have the last couple of years. I’d look for them to compete for Sectional and Regional titles in 2021-2022.
OTHERS TO KEEP AN EYE ON:
Angola (19-6, 2020-2021 Sectional Champion)
Brownstown Central (19-7, 2020-2021 Sectional Champion)
Charlestown (8-11 in 2020-2021)
Danville (12-11 in 2020-2021)
Gibson Southern (16-6 in 2020-2021)
Greensburg (12-7 in 2020-2021)
Hamilton Heights (18-2, 2020-2021 Sectional Champion)
Indian Creek (17-7, 2020-2021 Sectional Champion)
Kankakee Valley (13-11, 2020-2021 Sectional Champion)
Knox (22-5 in 2020-2021)
Norwell (23-6, 2020-2021 Regional Champion)
Rushville (18-9, 2020-2021 Regional Finalist)
Twin Lakes (14-10 in 2020-2021)
West Lafayette (11-10 in 2020-2021)
West Noble (16-6 in 2020-2021) 
