1-A Powers Display A Multitude of Talent
As the second half of the season winds down to the state playoffs, many league races are yet to be decided. Out of eight 1-A regions, I’ve witnessed five of the top schools in action and there is a reason…
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Continue ReadingAs the second half of the season winds down to the state playoffs, many league races are yet to be decided. Out of eight 1-A regions, I’ve witnessed five of the top schools in action and there is a reason these teams are competing at a high level. Each has excellent leadership and talent on the floor. The following is a list of those athletes and the schools they represent;
Nemo Vista H.S. Region 4-Currently on top of the standings, the Red Hawks are led by 5’7″ senior swing guard Addy Peebles, pictured above. She has a very balanced game and the ball is in her hands at crunch time. Addy can hit the 3-ball but prefers to drive and finish at the glass. Kaitlyn Garis, another senior usually handles the point position and complements Addy on the opposite side.
Kingston H.S. Region 1 East-Junior swing guard Lila Hartness is 5’6″ and is the leading scorer for the Yellowjackets. She is very strong and can also go inside when needed. Jaidyn Head plays the point guard position and is very quick. Along with junior forward Rilee Pittman, Kingston is probably one of the top 5 teams in their Class and should go deep in the postseason.
Kirby H.S. Region 7-The Trojans are a blue-collar group led by senior swing guards Jenna Bailey and Gracie Hartage. Bailey moves well without the ball and is a very effective 3-point shooter. Hartage is more of a wing guard that can distribute the ball inside. Both players are excellent defenders and can break you down off the dribble.
Dermott H.S. Region 8-Undefeated in the region, the Rams are led by Jayla Foster and Za’kiah Tyler. Both seniors, the 5’5″ Foster is the ball handler and utilizes her speed and quickness to drive the lane. Tyler, at 5’9″ is long and very athletic. She does most of her damage in the paint. Elisabeth Rowe, a 5’4″ swing guard complements her teammates by getting out on the fast break.
Wonderview H.S. Region 4-Second only to Region rival Nemo Vista, the Daredevils are led by junior guard Riley Gottsponer Riley Gottsponer 6'1" | C Wonderview | 2024 State AR . This 6’1″ point guard creates a mismatch at her position. She will penetrate the defense and look to dish. 6’3″ junior Layla Terry Layla Terry 6'3" | C Wonderview | 2024 State AR is the team’s top rebounder. She works best in the paint. Allison Pruitt, a 5’6″ guard produces positive results off the bench.
There’s no doubt these players add tremendous value to each of their schools. Add this group to top talent at Jasper-Region 1 East, Thaden-Region 1 West, Norfork- Region 2, Mammoth Springs–Region 3, and Taylor-Region 7, the Class 1-A postseason will be one to remember.
Bobby Brown