6A Playoff Outlook: Seven Names Who Will Swing the Final 4

Natalie Guanella

Clayton Conover

March 9, 2023 @ 01:23 PM

These names have repeatedly tied into the collective upside of their respective teams, keep tabs on how these complementary pieces impact the game.   [player_tooltip player_id='222378' first='Natalie' last='Guanella'] - Monarch   Guanella paved the way for Monarch's Great 8 win, providing this group with a reliable facilitator. The lead guard put up 14 points and 5 assists in their win over Valor, on 5-10 from the field. She does a phenomenal job prioritizing transition opportunties, inevitably searching for the most efficient possible shot. There is no doubt that Guanella is one of Monarch's most effective drivers, proving capable scoring through physical contests. Regardless of Monarch's outcome in the Final Four, Guanella can rest assured she plays at the next level, committing to Fort Lewis and Head Coach Taylor Harris.   [player_tooltip player_id='318878' first='Arezo' last='Safi'] - Monarch   Safi constantly sought out driving lanes around the rim, immediately seeking scoring opportunties off the initial catch. At roughly 6' tall, the forward has no trouble scoring through contests and attacking opponents head on. In her Great 8 appearance, Safi put up 13 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. One especially notable area for Safi will be her ability to switch onto three positions, potentially throwing a wrench in the opponents halfcourt offense.   [player_tooltip player_id='381339' first='Sydney' last='White'] - Arapahoe   White provides constant energy as a necessary scorer for this versatile group. She immediately draws attention through her incredibly deep range from the jumper, stretching out beyond the NBA line. Another facet of White's scoring ability comes out of the mid-range, utilizing floaters to get shots up above rotating defenders.   [player_tooltip player_id='95228' first='Emily' last='Thomas'] - Arapahoe   Thomas adds value setting screens and finding shotmakers at opportune moments. The shooting guard capped off her Great 8 performance with 8 assists and 8 rebounds. Battling against MoHi's [player_tooltip player_id='318873' first='Amelia' last='Rosin'], the physicality that Thomas brings will be imperative to slowing down their opponent.   [player_tooltip player_id='571033' first='Deija' last='Roberson'] - Grandview   Roberson provides impactful defense versus a wide variety of positions alongside important physicality on the glass. Despite having a nationally ranked prospect in [player_tooltip player_id='352917' first='Sienna' last='Betts'], Grandview will need their complementary pieces to pull through for them to win. There is no doubt Roberson will make the necessary impact forcing opponents into tough shot attempts. The forward posted 6 points and 3 rebounds in her Great 8 appearance.   [player_tooltip player_id='118723' first='Isa' last='Dillehay'] - Grandview   Dillehay is a scrappy defender with this group, allowing no easy looks at the point of attack. Through her Great 8 match, the senior guard put up 6 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals. Although undersized at 5'3, she leverages her strength however possible to instigate against opposing ballhadlers. Dillehay's role at the point of attack versus bigger playmakers will be especially interesting.   [player_tooltip player_id='331175' first='Mireya' last='Johnson'] - Cherry Creek   Johnson provides essential shotmaking off the catch along with live dribble passing. She is more than capable finding shooters in the pocket off of one handed skip passes, an area displayed about a half dozen times per game. Her role as a advantageous on-ball defender, possessing quick instincts will be an x-factor in itself.

These names have repeatedly tied into the collective upside of their respective teams, keep tabs on how these complementary pieces impact the game.