PGH Freshman Showcase: The best of Team 5, part 1

Nearly 100 prospects competed on Sunday in the Prep Girls Hoops Freshman Showcase at Maple Grove Middle School. We'll be releasing the first ranking of the 2029 class in a few weeks – our annual Freshman 50 – and numerous players made a strong case that they should be included. We're publishing evaluations on all 10 teams in the event. This is the best of Team 5, part 1.    Tossou was easily one of the most intriguing prospects at the PGH Freshman Showcase. With a large, muscular frame and plenty of natural athleticism, the 5'7 guard brings a great deal of power and explosiveness to the perimeter. She was aggressive in her scoring efforts all day long and was a major source of offense for Team 5. While her skillset is still pretty raw, we loved Koko's willingness to get creative with the offense, not worrying about making mistakes or missing shots. That confidence will serve the lefty guard well as she begins her freshman season at Park Center.     Coming off a strong AAU season, Diessner brought her A-game to Sunday's showcase, displaying all of the attributes that make her a possible scholarship-level prospect. Standing at 5'11, Gianna is a forward with plenty of length. She uses that length in a highly effective manner, particularly on the defensive end. Whether blocking shots in the paint or disrupting passes on the perimeter, Diessner's size, athleticism, and energy created a headache for her opponents. The Minnetonka freshman was super aggressive on the boards all day, leading to extra possessions for her team.     Standing at 6-foot-1 and possessing ample length and graceful athleticism, there is no doubt that Holman has the physical tools required to play at the highest level in college. Another area where Demi excels is her scoring ability. With a quick first step, a strong set of handles, and a long stride she gets downhill with ease. Beyond the three-point line her shot is automatic and can easily extend out well past the arc. With some added aggression on the defensive end, the Park Center freshman will become a formidable prospect in the 2029 class.     Driving over 200 miles south to get to the Freshman Showcase, Binkley came all the way from Kelliher to join in on Sunday's action. Though generally pretty quiet on the court, the 5'7 guard had flashes of greatness all throughout the day. We loved Bristol's ability to see the floor in transition, anticipating where to put the ball with great accuracy. In loose ball situations she had no hesitation in getting down on the ground to fight for each possession. Already a mainstay in the Northome/Kelliher rotation, Bristol will continue to be a key piece for the Mustangs this winter.     Marcellus, a 5'9 guard from Irondale, brought energy on both ends of the court for Team 5. On offense Sofia had no hesitation attacking the basket or letting the ball fly from the three-point line, with a particular affinity for the left side of the floor. She regularly crashed the glass, snagging offensive boards that led to extra scoring opportunities for her team. Now in her freshman season, Sofia will return to the varsity floor for Irondale with the aim of improving upon last season's 5-23 record.

Nearly 100 prospects competed on Sunday in the Prep Girls Hoops Freshman Showcase at Maple Grove Middle School. We'll be releasing the first ranking of the 2029 class in a few weeks – our annual Freshman 50 – and numerous players made a strong case that they should be included. We're publishing evaluations on all 10 teams in the event. This is the best of Team 5, part 1.