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Emphasizing 7 Noteworthy 2027 Forwards Ahead Of The Summer

Emphasizing 7 Noteworthy 2027 Forwards Ahead Of The Summer
Mikol Blake-Green
Mikol Blake-Green May 28, 2025 @ 02:54 PM
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In this article:

Autumn Udoh
Autumn Udoh 6'0" | PF/SF | 2027
New E
Elaina Reed
Elaina Reed 6'0" | SF/PF | 2027
New E
Maddie Belanger
Maddie Belanger 5'11" | PF/C | 2027
New E
Aliona Nikulina
Aliona Nikulina 6'0" | PF | 2027
New E
Leah McKenzie
Leah McKenzie 5'11" | SF/SG | 2027
New E
Shannon O’Leary
Shannon O’Leary 6'1" | PF | 2028
New E
Riley Hamilton
Riley Hamilton 5'11" | PF | 2027
New E
<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The temperatures are starting to rise and so is the regional hoop scene. The upcoming rankings, high-level tournaments, as well as camps taking place provide a ton of content to cover, especially within the '27 class. Sometimes with an ample amount of high-level basketball being played and the leading players consistently being in the headlines, players can get lost in the shuffle. It's important to highlight notable players in such a talented class so that doesn't happen. Below are 7 rising junior forwards to know as things start to warm up.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Use code&nbsp;MBG30&nbsp;for 30% off your first purchase of any subscription.</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1237949"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-683768601e661"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='1237949' first='Elaina' last='Reed'] (2027) | 6'0 SF/PF | RIBC</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Coachable is the word that comes to mind when mentioning Reed. The adaptable game can fit just about any role and she can carve out sizable production from just about anywhere. The connective passes, defensive positioning, rebounding and high IQ really standout with her. This is a player that contributes to winning without taking from others' success</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1225188"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-683768601e6c5"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='1225188' first='Maddie' last='Belanger'] (2027) | 5'11 PF | Butler Heat Elite </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Maddie can be the perfect complementary forward or step up and take on the heavy responsibility of carrying the weight of the offense. Belanger doesn't care how she gets it done; she just makes it happen. The 5'11 forward made a large splash as a freshman and shown even more improvement in her 2nd season with the Patriots. Her team can count to play through her when times get rough considering her stability at the position. Her game is still evolving too and with her resourceful game, she can be such a treasure. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["967964"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-683768601e713"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='967964' first='Aliona' last='Nikulina'] (2027) | 6'0 PF | </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Aliona is recovering from injury, but this is a considerable talent that knows how to play the game. Thinking optimistically, time spent away from hoops can do wonders from her. Sometimes stepping away can help players become more cerebral and see how they can affect the game at an even greater rate. This could very well be the case with Nikulina. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1242924"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-683768601e760"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='1242924' first='Autumn' last='Udoh'] (2027) | 6'0 PF/SF | </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Autumn hit the 1000-point mark in February for Eastern and she's also off the back of her announcement to transfer to MacDuffie. Her stately contributions will produce great outcomes. She'll most likely play a large role for the Mustangs next season and will have no problems stepping helping carry the team in NEPSAC play. Udoh will definitely be a new addition in the upcoming rankings. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["393469"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-683768601e7aa"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='393469' first='Riley' last='Hamilton'] (2027) | 5'11 PF | MCW Starz </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A versatile forward that offers great positional length and prospers in various lineups. The 2-way play and selflessness must be stated with Hamilton. She's a player that can generate looks for others, exerts the utmost energy on defense and is just overall conducive to successful basketball. No to mention her effective shot-making ability that extends the floor for driving teammates. Hamilton projects to be a favorable difference maker, one that has transferrable skills on the next level. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["658588"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-683768601e7f3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='658588' first='Shannon' last='O'Leary'] (2027) | 6'1 PF | MCW Starz </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A player that plays a simple, yet effective style. Shannon loves to post on the block and her steady play down there can give an offensive boost from downlow. O'Leary is consistently in the right position, giving teammates the right angle after sitting deep on defenders. Her angles created turning over her shoulder make it hard for players to disrupt her shot. Shannon has also shown a knack for passing out of the post and keeping possessions alive on the offensive glass. She's an earnest player that merits attention for the work she's put in thus far. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["747029"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-683768601e83c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='747029' first='Leah' last='McKenzie'] (2027) | 5'11 SF | Loomis Chafee </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>McKenzie already holds offers from Binghamton and LeMoyne so far. She provides a nice combination of weakside rebounding, poise in the paint, reliable perimeter shooting and soft touch finishes around the rim. Leah's all-around game can be hard to get a gauge on as a defender. She takes what's given and is efficient in doing so. The 5'11 IDream wing is a potent variable to her team's success. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->

The temperatures are starting to rise and so is the regional hoop scene. The upcoming rankings, high-level tournaments, as well as camps taking place provide a ton of content to cover, especially within the '27 class. Sometimes with an ample amount of high-level basketball being played and the leading players consistently being in the headlines, players can get lost in the shuffle. It's important to highlight notable players in such a talented class so that doesn't happen. Below are 7 rising junior forwards to know as things start to warm up.

Elaina Reed

Elaina Reed

New E
SF/PF
HEIGHT 6'0"
POS SF/PF
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Elaina
Reed SF/PF
Class
2027
Height
6'0"
HS
St. Andrew's
|
New E
Emphasizing 7 Noteworthy 2027 Forwards Ahead Of The Summer
Elaina Reed (2027) | 6’0 SF/PF | RIBC Coachable is the word that comes to mind when mentioning...
Written by Mikol Blake-Green
Read more at PrepGirlsHoops.com
Prep Girls Hoops

Elaina Reed

Twitter
State: New England
School: St. Andrew's
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Maddie Belanger

Maddie Belanger

New E
PF/C
HEIGHT 5'11"
POS PF/C
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Maddie
Belanger PF/C
Class
2027
Height
5'11"
HS
Pilgrim
|
New E
Emphasizing 7 Noteworthy 2027 Forwards Ahead Of The Summer
Maddie Belanger (2027) | 5’11 PF | Butler Heat Elite Maddie can be the perfect complementary forward or...
Written by Mikol Blake-Green
Read more at PrepGirlsHoops.com
Prep Girls Hoops

Maddie Belanger

Instagram
State: New England
School: Pilgrim
Club: Butler heat elite
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Aliona Nikulina

Aliona Nikulina

New E
PF
HEIGHT 6'0"
POS PF
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Aliona
Nikulina PF
Class
2027
Height
6'0"
HS
Rocky Hill Country Day
|
New E
Emphasizing 7 Noteworthy 2027 Forwards Ahead Of The Summer
Aliona Nikulina (2027) | 6’0 PF | Aliona is recovering from injury, but this is a considerable talent...
Written by Mikol Blake-Green
Read more at PrepGirlsHoops.com
Prep Girls Hoops

Aliona Nikulina

State: New England
School: Rocky Hill Country Day
Club: Swarm Basketball
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Autumn Udoh

Autumn Udoh

New E
PF/SF
HEIGHT 6'0"
POS PF/SF
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Autumn
Udoh PF/SF
Class
2027
Height
6'0"
HS
MacDuffie
|
New E
Emphasizing 7 Noteworthy 2027 Forwards Ahead Of The Summer
Autumn Udoh (2027) | 6’0 PF/SF | Autumn hit the 1000-point mark in February for Eastern and she’s...
Written by Mikol Blake-Green
Read more at PrepGirlsHoops.com
Prep Girls Hoops

Autumn Udoh

State: New England
School: MacDuffie
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Riley Hamilton

Riley Hamilton

New E
PF
HEIGHT 5'11"
POS PF
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Riley
Hamilton PF
Class
2027
Height
5'11"
HS
Dexter Southfield
|
New E
Emphasizing 7 Noteworthy 2027 Forwards Ahead Of The Summer
Riley Hamilton (2027) | 5’11 PF | MCW Starz A versatile forward that offers great positional length and...
Written by Mikol Blake-Green
Read more at PrepGirlsHoops.com
Prep Girls Hoops

Riley Hamilton

Instagram Twitter
State: New England
School: Dexter Southfield
Club: MCW Starz
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Shannon O’Leary

Shannon O’Leary

HEIGHT 6'1"
POS PF
CLASS 2028
View Player
​
Shannon
O’Leary PF
Class
2028
Height
6'1"
HS
New Hampton
|
New E
Emphasizing 7 Noteworthy 2027 Forwards Ahead Of The Summer
Shannon O’Leary (2027) | 6’1 PF | MCW Starz A player that plays a simple, yet effective style....
Written by Mikol Blake-Green
Read more at PrepGirlsHoops.com
Prep Girls Hoops

Shannon O’Leary

Instagram Twitter
State: New England
School: New Hampton
Club: MCW Starz
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Leah McKenzie

Leah McKenzie

New E
SF/SG
HEIGHT 5'11"
POS SF/SG
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Leah
McKenzie SF/SG
Class
2027
Height
5'11"
HS
Loomis Chaffee
|
New E
Emphasizing 7 Noteworthy 2027 Forwards Ahead Of The Summer
Leah McKenzie (2027) | 5’11 SF | Loomis Chafee McKenzie already holds offers from Binghamton and LeMoyne so...
Written by Mikol Blake-Green
Read more at PrepGirlsHoops.com
Prep Girls Hoops

Leah McKenzie

Twitter
State: New England
School: Loomis Chaffee
Club: iDream Nation
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

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