Summer Impact Players You Need To Know

The most thrilling part of the Scholastic Summer Season is getting an early glimpse at the talent that will define the upcoming winter. Summer hoops serve as the proving ground—where hidden gems emerge, returning stars sharpen their skills, and prospects put their names on the map. This year, I had the opportunity to hit the road and cover numerous events both regionally and nationally, watching some of the best up-and-coming players showcase their abilities on big stages.   From high-energy guards to dominant frontcourt forces, a handful of prospects separated themselves from the pack. These five stood out not just for their production but for the way their game translates into the next phase of competition. Expect their momentum to carry over as they blaze into the Fall leagues and make serious noise once winter ball tips off.    Wily had a huge showing at the Tribe Athletics Native American Nationals, leading her GC3 Stars Varsity Team to a close elite 8 finish against a loaded Rezbombers team. Wily has been receiving interest from Division 1 schools and is poised to have a standout sophomore campaign at Gilbert. Wily is a complete guard who can facilitate and score from inside and at the midrange. A potent floor general, much of the Tigers' success this season will come from her leadership and ability to defend at a high level. In seeing numerous guards from around the state, Wily is emerging to the front of the pack by far. A solid, surefire Division 1 prospect with tremendous upside.     Greenwade had a huge summer showing to start June. She orchestrated a back-to-back championship run at the Starcade. Greenwade is one of the better floor generals as she has a tight handle, solid athletic, facilitation, and defensive abilities. Besides that, she can score at a high level from all three levels. With her growth and maturity, I expect her junior campaign to be her best yet, as she has the IQ, skills, and abilities to lead a dominant team into the winter. I urge college coaches to make sure to attend Higley games this season.     Murdough dealt with a minor injury to start off June ball, however didn't miss a beat in her strong showing at the 5th Annual GC3 Hoops Summer Invitational. Murdough looked unstoppable on both ends of the floor. What impressed me the most was her development of her perimeter game. She comfortably handles the ball at the wing, defends 3-5, and can hit the three-ball. I loved her vision, decision-making, and passing ability. Murdough will be a foundational piece to help lead the Knights to a deep post season run this winter.     One of the programs that doesn't get much publicity hails from Yuma, AZ. The Yuma Catholic Shamrocks are a program on the rise and will look to make a bunch of noise this winter. Sakay is a do-it-all guard who can facilitate, score, and defend. I was able to further evaluate her at the She Can't Guard Me Camp, where she put on a display of her skill set. With numerous teams in 3A who are rebuilding, Sakay will look to take advantage and help lead her Shamrocks to a deep playoff run this winter. I urge college coaches to put this young lady on your radar as I expect her to be one of the best under radar prospects in the 2027 class.     Although Queen Creek plays in a very tough division, Rodgers stands out with her size, athleticism, and skill set. She is an elite slasher who can create scoring opportunities off the dribble. She competes hard on both ends of the floor and has supreme Division 1 athletic ability. A multi-sport athlete who impacts the game on both ends of the floor. I expect the Bulldogs to have success under Rodgers' leadership. I urge mid-major colleges looking for an elite wing to get Rodgers under their radar.

The most thrilling part of the Scholastic Summer Season is getting an early glimpse at the talent that will define the upcoming winter. Summer hoops serve as the proving ground—where hidden gems emerge, returning stars sharpen their skills, and prospects put their names on the map. This year, I had the opportunity to hit the road and cover numerous events both regionally and nationally, watching some of the best up-and-coming players showcase their abilities on big stages.