Postseason X-Factors: Regions 9-12
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District Tournaments actually start on Saturday and by March 2, half of the basketball teams in the state will have had their seasons end. As we move towards the postseason, I wanted to highlight some players who are X factors…
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Continue ReadingDistrict Tournaments actually start on Saturday and by March 2, half of the basketball teams in the state will have had their seasons end. As we move towards the postseason, I wanted to highlight some players who are X factors for teams with aspirations of winning their regions and advancing to Rupp Arena next month.
Jayden McClain
Jayden McClain
There aren’t many 7th graders across Kentucky making any kind of an impact at the high school level but Jayden is no typical 7th grader. She’s 6’5 and holds D1 offers from multiple high major D1 schools already. In the class of 2029, she could be one of the best in America. But for Ryle, she just needs to be able to provide some rim protection and rebounding to help them get back to Rupp Arena. If she can be an adequate (or better) backup to Sarah Baker Sarah Baker 6’2″ | C Ryle | 2024 State KY , McClain can have a big time impact on the postseason.
Jones is part of a loaded GRC roster who may not be challenged on the road to Rupp. If they get there, Khania has the potential to a big time difference maker in a likely first round game against Sacred Heart. Khania struggled against the Valkyries last time they faced off, going 1-6 from the field. If she can get closer to 10 points and 8+ rebounds, Jones can be the difference in a potential rematch with SHA.
Franklin County has a very deep roster full of talented players but I think Wheeler is one who can hit a higher gear than most. I’ve seen Makiyia get mad and focused and start to play with an edge. Athletically, Wheeler has the ability to lock down opposing guards but she also has the burst to get past defenders and get into the paint where she can wreak havoc. The Lady Flyers are deep but Makiyia is a true X factor and can ramp their play up a level.
Highlights
Dye has grown into her role as the season has gone along and she’s starting to hit her stride at the right time. When Southwestern is playing their best, they are super balanced on offense. Jaelyn can be a difference maker because she is a true three level scorer. While she has struggled at times this season to knock down threes, Dye is more than capable. And she’s highly effective as a wing scorer who penetrates after the initial attack of the ball handler.