802 Preseason Oracle: First Team All-D1

Yeah, this five is crazy! We’ve got an elite D3 commit in here, a solid D2 commit, and others who fit that same bill and possibly beyond. These kids can play.

Bree McDonald Bree McDonald 5'6" | PG Burlington | 2025 State NewE , 5’7 G – Burlington H.S. Class of 2025

McDonald is a pure bucket. Bree’s scoring package has unlimited possibilities; she’s a good shooter from deep off the bounce, can create space and break down defenders with her handle, and her second layer scoring within 15-feet is quite efficient off of crafty footwork and nice touch. Then in the pnr, all those spots become just a little bit easier to get to. And defensively, she’s a solid on-ball presence who’ll poke at the ball and force a couple turnovers a game. A scoring PG, initiator of the O, and a solid distributor when corralled, Bree’s game is tough to contain.

Anna Moser Anna Moser 5'8" | CG Rutland | 2026 State NewE , 5’7 G – Rutland H.S. Class of 2026

A fierce competitor, Moser is coming into her own as one VT’s best. A true two-way terror, Anna’s defensive chops are equipped with quick footwork, active hands, heady anticipation, and the sheer will to lock down offenses. Her IQ and athleticism make her a feared matchup. Then offensively there’s no break. Anna’s handle is tight yet creative, and she balances her 3-level scoring ability with savvy distribution. Moser’s a dynamic playmaker, play-finisher, and an outright problem for opponents.

Hayden Wilkins Hayden Wilkins 5'8" | PG Saint Johnsbury Academy | 2024 NewE , 5’9 G – St. Johnsbury Academy Class of 2024

I have a feeling Hayden is going to put a flame under St. J this year. Wilkins is a fiery competitor who has shown her clutch gene, her attack mindset, and an utter will to win. Hayden has serious 3-level scoring ability with deep range on her trey, yet she does a good job of reading the game situation, and the defense, to balance her attack with playmaking for others. And defensively, her wit and hustle always shine through. Hayden and St. J are seeking to avenge a finals loss, and I’ve got them atop my D1 Power Rankings.

Kelli Cieplicki Kelli Cieplicki 5'9" Rice Memorial | 2024 NewE , 5’10 G/W – Rice Memorial H.S. Class of 2024

Recent St. Michaels College commit, Cieplicki has a game that comes with zero holes. Kelli’s ability to guard 1-4, rebound at a high clip, lockdown perimeter players, and put her fingerprints on every play is quickly understood. Then offensively, Kelli can do it all. She’s come into her own as an offensive creator and finisher, able to knock down looks at every level and put teammates in scoring position. And with two premier backcourt mates opting to go prep, Kelli will have a whole lot on her plate. Cieplicki’s one of the first names that come to mind in GPOY discussion.

Samara Ashooh Samara Ashooh 6'0" | PF Champlain Valley Union | 2024 State NewE , 6’1 F – Champlain Valley Union H.S. Class of 2024

What has come to separate Samara from the other true forwards in VT is the development of her 3-ball. Ashooh has been a solid 2-level playmaker around the post and in the short to mid-range with her sly footwork and extension. But the addition of the 3 makes her so dynamic in ball screens, opens up the paint for drivers, and ensures her lethality from all over the court. And with her solid rim protection and adept rebounding, Ashooh will be CVU’s anchor on both ends. The Smith College commit is bound for a big year.