Gamechangers: High Impact Chittenden County Hoopers Pt. 1/3
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Through mid-August I went through my top players in each class with my August Company series. Now I’m going through the state and finding those high impact players that didn’t quite make those initial lists. Tap into some of VT’s finest with…
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Continue ReadingThrough mid-August I went through my top players in each class with my August Company series. Now I’m going through the state and finding those high impact players that didn’t quite make those initial lists. Tap into some of VT’s finest with the Gamechangers series!
Elyse Berger Elyse Berger 5'10" | CG Champlain Valley Union | 2024 State NewE , 5’10 G – Champlain Valley Union H.S. Class of 2024
The multi-sport standout is one of the most reliable players in the state. With Elyse you know exactly what you’re going to get; she’s high effort, high-IQ, and seriously skilled. Her handle and passing vision are excellent whether she’s running the break or dicing it up in the halfcourt. Versatile with her size, she’s a multi-positional defender, adept rebounder, and fearless leader.
Brianna Brownell Brianna Brownell 5'9" | SF Mount Mansfield | 2024 State NewE , 5’10 W/F – Mount Mansfield Union H.S. Class of 2024
Brownell’s game is founded on hard work and smarts. Brianna’s rebounding instincts are sound, she defends 2-5, and her communication + rotations are crisp. Moreover, she’s always the first down the floor and can burn it up in transition. Yet her game continues to expand; her mid-range jumper is fluid, her slashing package is strong as ever, and her passing vision is on point.
Nicole Norton Nicole Norton 5'8" | CG Colchester | 2024 State NewE , 5’9 G – Colchester H.S. Class of 2024
I have Norton down as one of the toughest slashers to guard in VT. Nicole’s an explosive athlete with a first step that gets her into the second layer and at the rim in no time. She’s a savvy finisher who can snake around the defense, or, if the lane is clogged, she has the vision to outwit rotations and kick to shooters. Defensively she has no holes, whether it’s on or off the ball. Game so sound.
Breya Montague Breya Montague 5'9" | SG Essex | 2024 State NewE , 5’9 G – Essex H.S. Class of 2024
Montague is one of the most enjoyable PGs to watch. Breya’s attack mentality is guided by taking advantage of the defense; Montague’s shifty handle creates space where the can manipulate the defense and pick them apart with snappy passing, interior finishes, and knockdown shooting from 3. Defensively, Breya utilizes her length and anticipation to disrupt offenses and stifle rhythm. Smart and savvy.
Merrill Jacobs Merrill Jacobs 5'7" | SF Champlain Valley Union | 2024 State NewE , 5’9 W – Champlain Valley Union H.S. Class of 2024
Clinical is the first word that comes to mind. Merrill’s high-IQ game is plug and play; Jacobs plays 2-4 for CVU with her witty off-ball movement around the post, multi-level shooting touch, and excellent decision making. That 2-4 versatility happens on the defensive end too. She’s a smart defender who knows where her help is, knows how to scramble to cover off ball, and knows how to spark the break. Brain game.