Grassroots Insider Edition: ABC Lightning Showcase Elite 17U
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ABC Lightning Showcase Elite team is one of many Elite NC teams to watch this summer season. In the last month, they have proven themselves to be just as the name describes, Elite! Under the guidance of Coach Gary Williams…
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Continue ReadingABC Lightning Showcase Elite team is one of many Elite NC teams to watch this summer season. In the last month, they have proven themselves to be just as the name describes, Elite! Under the guidance of Coach Gary Williams plus the years of experience many of the girls possess, the future will continue to shine bright as a team and individual player. I had the honor of catching up with the team this month; here’s a breakdown of a few players that I was able to catch during my time with them.
Destinee Barnes Destinee Barnes 6'0" | CG Winston Salem Christian National | 2023 State NC 2023 5’10 G Winston Salem Christian HS, NC
A savvy player who is a great asset to any team. Destinee handles the ball very well for her size and brings aggressive energy to the court. Defensively she reads the floor well and often gets a hand on the ball because she knows how to play the next pass. As someone who can score from anywhere on the floor, Destinee is definitely a player to follow this summer.
Staci Williams Staci Williams 5'7" | PG Holly Springs | 2023 State NC 2023 5’7 G Holly Springs HS, NC
Well rounded guard that is quick on her feet. Staci is a vocal leader who sees the floor well and consistently tries to involve her teammates within the offensive sets. Her shot is automatic from everywhere on the court, but she also knows how to get into the paint on cue. Presbyterian, East Carolina, and Belmont are possible commits.
Alondra Arroyo Alondra Arroyo 6'1" | PF Holly Springs | 2023 State NC 2023 6’2 G/F Holly Springs HS, NC
Arguably the biggest advantage of ABC Lightning is the height advantage over the average women’s team and the versatility that comes with it. Alondra knows how to maximize her wingspan on the offensive and defensive end. She’s the second leading blocker and rebounder on the team and runs the floor exceptionally well for her height. Fastbreaks are where Alondra excels and just like her high school teammate, she also is able to knock down shots anywhere on the court.
Ayla Starck 2023 6’0 G/F Apex Friendship HS, NC
Following an incredible high school season, Ayla is one of those players that every team needs. She knows her role and does a great job handling her individual responsibilities. Height and size allow her to play down low when necessary but her athletism and ability to score make her a force to be respected. Overall Ayla is a solid player that is versatile enough to play almost all of the positions on the court.
Lydia Thomas 2025 6’1 C Holly Springs HS, NC
Thomas is the youngest of the Holly Springs High School crew. She stands over 6’0 and has a good size that puts her in a good position to excel in all things in the paint. She’s a great rebounder and is mastering finishing around the rim. As long as she continues to work hard, Lydia will have a promising future in basketball.
Sarah Furst 2025 6’0 G Middle Creek HS, NC
Sarah shows no signs of intimidation while playing against older competitors. Throughout my time with ABC Lightning I witness Sarah step up to tasks others strayed away from. She has a solid skill foundation and her biggest strength is her ability to handle the ball. For her to be a part of the 2025 class, she gels well with the upperclassmen.
Shelby Rodgers 2024 6’1 C Holly Springs HS, NC
As one of the newest members of the team, Shelby’s role consists of rebounding and laying the ball back up. Her ball handling skills are coming along well for a player of her stature and with a little more practice she will easily become a heavy hitter.
Anna Maass 2025 5’7 G Thales Academy HS, NC
Topping off the class of 2025, Anna brings calm energy to the floor. She’s super coachable and is an all-around decent guard in her early high school career. She handles the ball well and her athletic ability will make her one to keep an eye out for over the next few years.
Lindsay Garner Lindsay Garner 6'2" | C Lexington | 2023 State SC 2023 6’3 C Lexington HS, SC
Although Lindsay is a South Carolina native, she caps off the final ABC Lightning star that I was able to see during the preparation process. Hands down, any school would be lucky to have Lindsay on its roster. At 6’3 I watched Lindsay work nonstop through all offensive sets. From setting solid screens for her guards, the way she uses her body to position herself for success is incredible. Garner possesses an automatic jumper just as many others alongside her, but the ability to do it from anywhere on the court is truly impressive. It should come as no surprise that she is the leading blocker and rebounder for the team. As a rising senior, this summer season will be crucial to her success.