2023/24 Top Underclassmen To Watch

The new season has started and high school basketball junkies throughout the state be watching games for the next 4 months. Throughout this past Grassroots Season, I’ve watched many young prospects sharpen their games to achieve excellence and contribute to their teams’ success. The following list of players, in my view, will make a significant impact on a deep playoff run;

Jakyra Jackson Jakyra Jackson 5'6" | CG Central West Helena | 2025 State AR -5’9″ SG, 2025, Helena H.S.-Jakyra, pictured above, is probably the best athlete on the floor in almost every game. She’s strong, quick, fast, and can jump out of the gym. She can score at any time on anyone. Her stock will elevate if she’s done her work on her weak side. With any help, Helena H.S. will make another appearance in the 3A state tournament this coming season.

Cydney Sanders Cydney Sanders 5'8" | PG Episcopal Collegiate | 2026 AR -5’9″ PG, 2026, Baptist Prep H.S.-Talk about a five-tool player in the making, Cydney attacks the basket from either side of the court. She is quick and sees the court very well. Her anticipation skills are at another level. Her length creates a matchup nightmare for opposing coaches. She can defend and has a very high basketball IQ. Cydney’s transfer to Baptist Prep will elevate the school to a serious post-season run.

Kylah Pearcy-5’7″ SG, 2026, Greenwood H.S.-Kylah is another difference maker on the court. Her addition to another loaded Greenwood H.S. group will solidify another top finish in the 5A West Conference. Kylah’s basketball IQ is off the charts and her varsity experience last year as a freshman elevated her game to make a huge impact this season.

Kori Sanders Kori Sanders 5'4" | PG Lamar | 2025 State AR -5’5″ PG, 2025, Lamar H.S.-Quick! Quick! Quick! Kori is one of the quickest point guards in the state. After a devastating knee injury last year, she is ready to lead the Lady Warriors to another deep post-season run. She can defend and is much stronger due to her rehab. Her return will certainly be a vital part of her team’s success. Look for Lamar to make more noise in class 3A this coming season.

Jaycey Halitzka-5’8″ SG, 2027, Bergman H.S.-Jaycey is a shooter. She can spot up anywhere on the court and knock down the shot. She has a knack for finding the open spot on the floor for a catch-and-shoot opportunity. She can help secure the ball in pressure situations but is most effective as a two-guard. This year she will elevate her game and her team for another Class 3A State Tournament appearance.

Ayla Hoelzeman-6’0″ F, 2025, Sacred Heart H.S.-Ayla will be a very important part of a post-season run for the Knights. She can play in paint but is most effective at facing the basket and creating a mismatch out front. Statistically, she adds value in all offensive categories. She’ll need to be a rebounding force and create more offensive possessions for her team.

Due to their dedicated summer basketball commitments, this group of talented young ladies will lead their respective schools to playoff runs this season. Looking forward to traveling the state and observing some quality high school basketball.

Bobby Brown