Spotlight on New York's Top Hoopers Part 2

New York basketball is buzzing this season, with standout players leading their teams to remarkable success. From clutch performances to consistent dominance, these athletes are not only lighting up the scoreboard but also setting the stage for deep postseason runs. As the journey toward cutting down the nets intensifies, we're highlighting some of the key players who have already made a significant impact.    Ka'Shya Hawkins is a standout point guard for LuHi with the rare ability to impact the game from anywhere on the court. With elite shooting mechanics and deep range, she's a constant scoring threat, whether pulling up from mid-range or driving to the basket with precision. Hawkins' ball-handling and vision set her apart, allowing her to create her own shot and set up teammates for easy buckets. A force in transition, she plays with exceptional pace and control. On defense, Hawkins' physicality and determination shine as she consistently looks to generate turnovers and spark fast-break opportunities.     [player_tooltip player_id='413766' first='Kenzi' last='DeJesus'] earns her spot on this list for one simple reason: her unmatched ability to take the best player out of the game every single night. Relentless and confident, she brings the X-factor every team looks for in a leader. After a standout offseason on the summer circuit, DeJesus has continued to elevate her game, making huge strides throughout the season. Her evolving skill set and defensive dominance make her a player to watch as she consistently sets the tone for her team on both ends of the court.     Lauryn Swann is a dynamic athlete who combines physicality, quickness, and skill to dominate on both ends of the court. A versatile scorer, she has a deep bag of moves—whether driving to the basket, pulling up from the perimeter, or facilitating the offense with precision passing. Swann's defensive instincts are just as impressive, as she locks down opponents, denies clean looks, and forces turnovers. In transition, she shines, seamlessly going coast to coast or dishing out dimes to her talented teammates. Swann's all-around impact makes her a vital piece of her team's success.     Big O is a force on both ends of the court, capable of handling any assignment offensively and defensively. Although she's had a slow start to the season, her elite athleticism, footwork, and defensive instincts make her a standout. With range and versatility, she's a true five-tool player—able to defend multiple positions, control the pace, and contribute offensively in a variety of ways. This season, expect Big O to be the focal point of the offense as a point forward, while taking on the responsibility of shutting down the opposing team's top scorer each night. Her limitless skill set is sure to make a major impact as the season progresses.     Mercado has been nothing short of electric this season, emerging as one of the state's top scorers, averaging an impressive 26 points and an astounding 6 steals per game. Fresh off a standout performance in a holiday tournament, Mercado showed she can take over a game, effortlessly getting to any spot on the floor. An elite scorer and playmaker, her ability to create space and shift directions on a dime makes her nearly impossible to guard. With a quick release and fluid shooting mechanics, she can score whenever her team needs a bucket. Mercado's elite passing and high basketball IQ elevate her entire team, making her a true game-changer.

New York basketball is buzzing this season, with standout players leading their teams to remarkable success. From clutch performances to consistent dominance, these athletes are not only lighting up the scoreboard but also setting the stage for deep postseason runs. As the journey toward cutting down the nets intensifies, we're highlighting some of the key players who have already made a significant impact.