Michigan State Tourney: 16U Players who Stepped Up

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Saturday at the PGH Michigan State Tournament saw several 16U players rise to the occasion, taking their game to the next level. With a mix of sharp shooting, gritty defense, and relentless hustle, these young athletes showed they're ready to make an impact. Whether it was hitting crucial shots from the perimeter, battling for rebounds in the paint, or locking down opposing players on defense, the 16U girls showcased their versatility and basketball IQ. As the competition heated up, it was clear these players were not just there to compete—they were determined to make a statement and set the stage for what's to come.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Evan and I worked hard to scout as many players and teams as we could throughout the day! Now, let's shine a spotlight on some of the 16U players who really stepped up and made their presence felt on Saturday.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["927963"],"_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-6836674288dfe"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Kira, a powerful forward for [program_tooltip program_id='715424' first='The' last='Naturals'], had a standout performance on Saturday at the PGH Michigan State Tournament. She was fearless in attacking the lane, taking on contact and still managing to finish strong at the basket. Kira's tenacity on the boards was also on display, as she worked tirelessly to secure rebounds and create second-chance opportunities for her team. Her physicality and hustle were key factors in her team's success throughout the day.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["927983"],"_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-6836674288e81"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Lucy, a strong forward for [program_tooltip program_id='714556' first='TC' last='Elite'], had an impressive outing on Saturday at the PGH Michigan State Tournament. She consistently established great position for defensive rebounds, always making sure to box out effectively. On the offensive end, Lucy fought hard for second-chance opportunities, grabbing several key rebounds and finishing with multiple putbacks. Her ability to draw double teams in the paint opened up passing lanes, and she showed excellent court vision by kicking the ball out to open teammates. Lucy's all-around effort and basketball IQ were critical in her team's success.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1250141"],"_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-6836674288ecf"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Elliana, a powerful post player for Lakeside, had an outstanding performance on Saturday at the PGH Michigan State Tournament. She dominated the paint, using her physicality and grit to control the boards, while securing numerous offensive putbacks. On the defensive end, she was a constant presence, standing her ground and making a difference with timely shot alterations and key blocks. Elliana's relentless effort in both the post and on defense made her a key contributor to her team's success.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1241079"],"_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-6836674288f22"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Roxy, a dynamic guard for [program_tooltip program_id='713446' first='Hardwood' last='Midwest'], had a strong showing on Saturday at the PGH Michigan State Tournament. Her defensive prowess was on full display as she racked up multiple steals throughout the game, including taking one coast-to-coast for an easy bucket. Roxy's speed and intensity in transition helped push the pace, creating opportunities for her team. On offense, she showcased her quick release, knocking down several shots from beyond the arc and hitting mid-range jumpers with confidence. Her all-around play made her a key asset for her team.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1241095"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":["override_image"],"_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_player_featured_image":1251637,"_player_evaluations_0_player_featured_image":"field_62f141137ead9","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-6836674288f85"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Addison, a poised point guard for [program_tooltip program_id='713446' first='Hardwood' last='Midwest'], had an impressive performance on Saturday at the PGH Michigan State Tournament. Her ability to control the tempo and make smart decisions stood out, as she consistently ran the offense with confidence. A skilled ball handler, Addison was able to navigate through defenses effortlessly, and she even showcased an impressive Eurostep finish around the rim. Her basketball IQ and court awareness were key factors in keeping her team organized and efficient throughout the games.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->