July Skill Specialist: C'O 2026 LOCKDOWN GUARDS

In July, coaches are looking for players who fit their program's style of play—whether it's a run-and-gun system, a half-court system built on motion offense, or an inside-out approach. Programs need specific players to match their system, and here we want to showcase those with unique skill sets. This feature highlights some of the elite defenders to watch in July.    [player_tooltip player_id='428888' first='Zebrielle' last='Canaday'] is quick and fast, and don't let her size fool you—she's physical. She plays with a strong base and quick feet. Every time you think you have her beat, she's back in position. She's the type of defender who will guard you full court and force you to pass the ball just to advance it. She's also unscreenable, staying attached to her matchup and fighting over screens. Don't bring the ball down in the paint, either—she excels at poking it loose, especially when you least expect it.     [player_tooltip player_id='514608' first='Evie' last='Freeman'] is relentless on the defensive end and thrives on the physicality of the game—the more physical you play against her, the better she performs. Her ability to turn, run, and beat you to the spot forces ball handlers to be decisive, as any extra moves could lead to a steal and a quick finish in transition. Even if you manage to get by her, she hustles back into position and communicates loudly, helping her teammates know where to rotate.     [player_tooltip player_id='892014' first='Kelsey' last='Sharpe'] is your favorite ball handler's worst nightmare on the floor. No matter what combo moves you throw at her, she doesn't fall for any of them. She is one of the most disciplined defenders you'll see, with the ability to get right into her matchup's personal space and make them uncomfortable. She maintains the same unbothered, confident demeanor the entire game.     (Cover photo) [player_tooltip player_id='514527' first='Arianna' last='Walker'] will guard every position on the floor, 1 through 5. She is an elite athlete—fast enough to stay in front of point guards and too strong for them to get by her, while also being physical enough to battle post players and too quick for them to make a move. Walker has a high defensive IQ, always knowing where to be both on and off the ball. She lives in the passing lanes and excels in weak-side help defense, constantly directing her teammates like the true leader she is.     [player_tooltip player_id='514569' first='Cherity' last='Powells'] thrives in high-stress, high-reward situations. When the game is tight, she shows up—making big-time defensive plays and leaving it all on the floor. If there's a loose ball, she's diving for it. If there's a bad pass, she's hustling to intercept it at the highest point. She also doesn't mind taking charges to force turnovers. Cherity does many things that don't show up on the stat sheet but are crucial to helping her team win.     [player_tooltip player_id='514545' first='Mariah' last='Young'] plays with grit and determination. She has a motor and intense energy that gets her teammates and the crowd hyped from the jump. Mariah is a tone-setter—her presence is immediately felt by opposing teams as she plays aggressive on-ball defense and directs her opponent where she wants them to go. She knows how to exploit her matchup's weaknesses and wears them down physically and mentally. Her ability to force turnovers without fouling is a beautiful part of her game.

In July, coaches are looking for players who fit their program's style of play—whether it's a run-and-gun system, a half-court system built on motion offense, or an inside-out approach. Programs need specific players to match their system, and here we want to showcase those with unique skill sets. This feature highlights some of the elite defenders to watch in July.