5A Final 4 preview: X-Factors in Gainesville Vs Northeast

We are one step closer to naming the state champions in 5A. One of the most even matchups in the playoffs is, Gainesville, vs. Northeast, expect a lot of scoring in this matchup.    (Cover Photo) [player_tooltip player_id='430279' first='Jamison' last='Cardwell'] is one of the most impressive big guards in the state, possessing a Division I style of aggressive play, skill, and size. Her ability to bully smaller guards, blow by bigger defenders, and consistently knock down both three-pointers and mid-range shots makes her a matchup nightmare for most teams. The senior enters the Final Four averaging 16.2 PPG and 5.7 RPG, making her a scoring threat both on and off the ball. Expect Jamison to showcase her versatility on the big stage.     [player_tooltip player_id='418906' first='Ny'Keria' last='Flowers'] is a shifty point guard with elite ball-handling skills, playing with a fierce competitiveness that drives her to dominate her matchup every time down the court. Her play style and grit are built for the big stage. Flowers leads this Northeast team both by example and in scoring, averaging 19.3 PPG with 540 total points this season. Not only is she the ultimate competitor, but she is also a BUCKET, capable of stopping on a dime to get her shot off.     [player_tooltip player_id='346818' first='Jayden' last='Terry'], the LA Tech commit, has formed a dynamic duo with her teammate Jamison this season, making it difficult for opponents to decide who to slow down just to keep the game close. Terry's quick first step and slashing ability, combined with her strong shooting off the catch, make her a tough matchup. She also has a knack for drawing contact at the rim and getting to the free-throw line. The senior guard will showcase her leadership and composure on the floor, keeping her team under control under the bright lights.     [player_tooltip player_id='1052606' first='Jazmine' last='Jones'] has flown under the radar recently, but once you see her play, you'll wonder how. The shifty guard is aggressive with the ball and just as tenacious on the defensive end. Heading into the Final Four, she is averaging 17.3 PPG while shooting 65% from the field and tallying 6 steals per game, including a season-high 14-steal performance. After watching her perform on the big stage in Lakeland, This Northeast Junior just might become one of your new favorite players.     [player_tooltip player_id='819898' first='Kendall' last='Ruise'] is a menace in the transition game. The quick guard has a knack for forcing turnovers and getting her team out in transition for easy buckets. Ruise does a lot of the dirty work both on and off the ball, giving this Gainesville team an extra 10 points per game purely from her hustle. Players like her always make a big impact in state championships, and I expect the same from Ruise.     Ya'Niyah Young is a sophomore who makes a big impact on the boards for the Northeast team, averaging 7.7 rebounds per game, which helps generate an extra 10 points per game for her team. Her relentless effort on the glass will play a crucial role in securing second-chance points—often the difference in close games. Look for Young to make a name for herself in this loaded 2027 class.

We are one step closer to naming the state champions in 5A. One of the most even matchups in the playoffs is, Gainesville, vs. Northeast, expect a lot of scoring in this matchup.