Sophomores to Watch This Season
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I want a break from the monotony of highlighting conferences and discussing a few teams and players who could break out this season. I’ll start by highlighting a few programs that could have improved seasons and finish with some sophomores…
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Continue ReadingI want a break from the monotony of highlighting conferences and discussing a few teams and players who could break out this season. I’ll start by highlighting a few programs that could have improved seasons and finish with some sophomores who could break out this season and make a name for themselves statewide.
Rowan Klesmit Rowan Klesmit 5'7" | PG Neenah | 2026 State WI
I’ve raved about Klesmit all summer and continue to do so tonight. She’s proven herself in big games in the postseason against Eau Claire Memorial, where the Rockets could’ve lost if it wasn’t for her. The biggest thing Klesmit will bring to the Rockets is the ability to handle the ball under pressure. Her presence will allow Allie Ziebell Allie Ziebell 5'11" | SG Neenah | 2024 State WI to play away from the ball and not have as much responsibility on her shoulders. I thought Klesmit did well playing up on the EYBL circuit and looked like she belonged on the floor with talented 2025s. Her talent allows the rest of the Rockets to be at their best.
Natalie Kussow Natalie Kussow 5'10" | SG Arrowhead | 2026 State WI
There’s no doubt that Kussow made a name for herself last season, but there were still moments when she looked like a newcomer to the high school game. One thing to watch from her this season will be how well she meshes with the other Arrowhead guards. Her role will be primarily putting points on the board. However, Kussow could be a premier playmaker if she wants to be one. She demands so much attention from the defense help will come from all over the floor. High-level games could be decided by her decision-making when teams throw multiple bodies at her late in games. I believe she can be one of the best creators in the state if she wants.
Taylor Gifford Taylor Gifford 6'0" | PF Waukesha West | 2026 State WI
Last season, there wasn’t much of an opportunity for Gifford to take a prominent role at Waukesha West, but there’s a chance that she could take a significant jump in production. Everyone I’ve talked to about Gifford raves about how gifted of a shooter she is, and she proved last season that she can play under the basket and win physical battles against strong kids. Out of everyone in Southeast Wisconsin, I believe Gifford will be the biggest surprise to people.
Maass will be a unique player in the FVA. She’s one of the few physically dominant players in the conference, and she battles for position every time down the floor. I don’t think that many people individually will be able to handle that level of physicality for 36 minutes. On top of that, she’s a skilled finisher around the rim, she can spin off her left shoulder and routinely create space, and she has a touch that helps her finish through contact. In an FVA without many true-post players, Maass could be one of the more productive posts in the Fox Valley.