Pac Shores Classic Top Point Guards
This week, Mira Costa High School is playing host to the Pac Shores Classic Tournament that runs from Dec. 5 through Dec. 10. The tournament features a good mix of teams and talent. I was able to attend the event…
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Continue ReadingThis week, Mira Costa High School is playing host to the Pac Shores Classic Tournament that runs from Dec. 5 through Dec. 10. The tournament features a good mix of teams and talent. I was able to attend the event on Dec. 6 and here’s a look at some of the top point guards that I saw.
1. Malie Nakaji – Mira Costa 2023
I first saw Nakaji play during club season over the summer and she stood out then as a good floor leader. She does a good job running the offense and controlling the pace. Plays well off screens and hits the roller. Good handles; can dribble under defensive pressure and she can create her own shot off the dribble. Able to hit the little runner in the lane. Looks for the open teammate and makes the right pass. Able to pull-up and shoot from three-point range in transition.
2. Leah Richard – South Torrance 2024
Richard stood out as a player who can play both guard positions but is able to act as the primary ball-handler setting up the offense. She keeps the ball moving in the halfcourt and is a pass first player. She’s also able to play alongside other ball-handlers and play off-ball looking for scoring opportunities. Solid with the ball in her hands, getting paint touches and kicking the ball out to open teammates once the defense collapses.
3.
Citlali Salazar
Citlali
Salazar
5'7" | PG
Crenshaw | 2023
State
CA
– Crenshaw 2023
Salazar is a bit of a scoring point guard who knows when to make the pass and knows when to look for her shot. She consistently attacks off the dribble and can get into the lane and finish at the rim. She’s able to take charge and control the pace of the game; she recognizes when the team needs a bucket and can consistently create her own shot. She has quick hands defensively and picks up fullcourt; able to poke the ball free and force turnovers.
4. Lola Donez – Oaks Christian 2024
Donez has a good length and is in the mold of a tall point guard. She can play multiple positions but she is trusted to be the primary ball-handler and run the offense. Looks for her teammates around the rim. She’s comfortable with the ball in her hands and is consistently able to beat her defender off the dribble and finish at the basket. She moves well off ball too, relocates well after the pass and she is a consistent three-point shooter off the catch with a quick release.