2027 rankings update: Meet the newcomers, part 2

We unveiled our updated Prep Girls Hoops Class of 2027 rankings a couple of weeks ago. At the time, we put out the names of all 23 newcomers to the list and introduced five of them in more detail. We're circling back today with the skinny on another half dozen incoming sophomores who can now call themselves ranked prospects in Minnesota. Listed in ranked order, here are six newcomers you need to know.   #66 [player_tooltip player_id='764213' first='Madalynn' last='McLaughlin'] – guard, Rochester Mayo   The Spartans of Rochester Mayo have looked very strong in recent Breakdown summer events and the incoming sophomore is a big reason why. Last year the 5'6 guard carved out a role for herself in the varsity rotation, and it seems as though she's poised to take things to the next level this year for coach Andy Bromeling. McLaughlin has a wide variety of assets at her disposal on the court: she's quick, plays with a smooth and effortless style, and is strong on the drive. Whether using her right or left hand, she has multiple finishes in her tool box. The [program_tooltip program_id='712352' first='Air' last='Minnesota'] player is part of a trio of talented youngsters who will play key roles in Rochester this winter, including 2028 standouts [player_tooltip player_id='806429' first='Amelia' last='Mills'] and [player_tooltip player_id='908260' first='Maggie' last='Dyer'].   #67 [player_tooltip player_id='932009' first='Cara' last='Sarbacker'] – wing, Christ's Household of Faith   The Christ's Household of Faith forward led the way for the Lions in her freshman season, averaging a team high 13.5 points per game and frequently getting up to double digits in the rebound column, as well. That's pretty good for a 9th grader but absolutely necessary given that St. Paul-based CHOF is one of the smallest schools in the state and needs everyone to step up and contribute. The [program_tooltip program_id='712665' first='Metro' last='Stars'] prospect stands at 6 feet tall, is very mobile, and possesses tons of length. She uses that length tremendously well, grabbing rebounds over opponents, blocking shots, and getting hands in the passing lanes for a steal. Sarbacker can score at multiple levels, but is especially proficient in her three-point shot, frequently draining shots on the catch-and-shoot.   #72 [player_tooltip player_id='764173' first='Lexi' last='Nicolai'] – forward, Providence Academy   The Providence Academy forward is a promising member of the 2027 class whose work has largely been overshadowed in high school so far. That is likely to change this winter. Standing at 5'10, Lexi possesses nice length and athleticism. She excels at crashing the glass and hustling for every possession. Coming off a strong spring with the [program_tooltip program_id='712699' first='Minnesota' last='Rise'], she is poised to play a much bigger role for the Lions in her sophomore season. The departure of elite 2028 forward [player_tooltip player_id='565312' first='Ari' last='Peterson'] to Minnetonka means that Nicolai will likely have a chance to step up and try to fill those shoes as Providence chases yet another state Class AA championship. Bursting with potential, Lexi is clearly poised for a breakout year.    #74 [player_tooltip player_id='866106' first='Lola' last='Christianson'] – guard, Goodhue   “Small but mighty” is how we'd describe the Goodhue guard if we had just a few words to do so. Lola stands somewhere around 5 foot 3, but was remarkably effective for the Wildcats last winter, particularly in the latter half of the season. The Southern [program_tooltip program_id='712687' first='Minnesota' last='Fury'] guard can score at multiple levels, knocking down open threes or using crafty ball handling to get to the rim. Christianson averaged 7.6 points per game in her freshman season and played an absolutely crucial role in the Wildcats' run to the State Tournament. On the defensive end, Lola has a high motor, tons of tenacity, and absolutely no fear. She defends with aggression and never hesitates to guard players much older and larger than herself.   #75 [player_tooltip player_id='630284' first='Maia' last='Richardson'] – guard, Northfield   Coming off a strong fourth season with the [program_tooltip program_id='712687' first='Minnesota' last='Fury'], the 2027 guard has continued to excel with the S40 squad. Not surprisingly given the Richardson family's basketball resume, Maia is a fundamentally sound, solid all-around player who uses her basketball IQ and strong decision making game after game. She keeps her game simple, moves well off the ball, sets the right screens, and feeds the ball to open teammates. She can knock down threes off the catch with ease, and is not afraid to get on the floor for a loose ball. Richardson was a rotation player for Northfield last winter, averaging just under 5 points per game in her freshman season. Look for much more in the season ahead.   #76 [player_tooltip player_id='675885' first='Lauren' last='Santy'] – guard, Eden Prairie   The Eden Prairie sophomore-to-be has had a solid all-around spring in her first AAU season with the [program_tooltip program_id='712665' first='Metro' last='Stars']. Her offensive production has increased from last year and her skills have developed, as well. The 5'9 athletic guard is quick, moves well, and defends with energy and consistency. Lauren hunts rebounds and loose balls, can get out and score in transition or knock down open threes. Santy saw a handful of varsity minutes at Eden Prairie last season, but is looking to crack the Eagles' deep varsity rotation this winter. It won't be easy but this two-way combo guard has long-term potential that is exciting.   PLEASE NOTE – Just a note for those of you who are new to the Prep Girls Hoops ranking process as well as a friendly reminder if you've been following our coverage for some time now. The PGH rankings are designed to identify athletes who are likely to be quality college basketball players. They are NOT a ranking of how well prospects are currently playing in high school or AAU. The college game is different. Being a stud in Class A or AA high school basketball is a long way from success at the next level. For more on how the process works, please visit the <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/how-we-rank/">How We Rank</a> page where you'll find details on the rankings process.   PGH scout Ally McGinnis wrote these evaluations.

We unveiled our updated Prep Girls Hoops Class of 2027 rankings a couple of weeks ago. At the time, we put out the names of all 23 newcomers to the list and introduced five of them in more detail. We're circling back today with the skinny on another half dozen incoming sophomores who can now call themselves ranked prospects in Minnesota. Listed in ranked order, here are six newcomers you need to know.