Season Preview: Navigating the Lake Conference

The Minnesota State High School league regular season is just six weeks away and that means it's time to preview some of the more interesting conferences around the state. Today we're kicking things off with a look at the mighty Lake Conference in the western suburbs of the Twin Cities. As always, the competition is likely to be fierce. This is how we see it.   FAVORITES   Hopkins   Despite losing key veterans and standout point guard [player_tooltip player_id='659118' first='Alivia' last='Bell'] to transfer, the Royals are reloading rather than rebuilding. College prospects [player_tooltip player_id='558627' first='Erma' last='Walker'], a versatile forward, and [player_tooltip player_id='377584' first='Ava' last='Cupito'], a skilled guard, returning from injury, will anchor the team alongside dynamic two-way playmaker [player_tooltip player_id='659130' first='Jaliyah' last='Diggs'], whose energy sets the tone on both ends. Supporting them are sophomore [player_tooltip player_id='1209360' first='Ava' last='Smith'], a physical post presence, and [player_tooltip player_id='644107' first='Inarah' last='Nesbitt'], known for her effort and defense. Emerging talents like [player_tooltip player_id='897934' first='Lanaia' last='Durant'] and [player_tooltip player_id='644912' first='Amari' last='Johnson'] bring athleticism and scoring punch, while 7th grader Marianna Davis adds size and rim protection after a strong AAU season with [program_tooltip program_id='712665' first='Metro' last='Stars']. Hopkins' blend of proven stars and rising talent makes them the team to beat as they chase yet another Lake Conference title.   Wayzata   Few teams have endured heartbreak like Wayzata. After sweeping rival Hopkins in the regular season and claiming the conference title, the Trojans fell in the section final to the eventual state champions. With standout Sophie Hawkinson (now at North Dakota State) and several key graduates gone, Wayzata turns to its next wave of leaders. Senior [player_tooltip player_id='478350' first='Kate' last='Amelotte'], a Creighton commit, returns from injury ready to lead a talented, hungry group. Alongside her is [player_tooltip player_id='659119' first='Maren' last='Day'], a South Dakota State commit, who averaged nearly 11 points per game and will take on an even larger scoring role. Juniors [player_tooltip player_id='600748' first='Kaja' last='Nash'] and [player_tooltip player_id='644100' first='Annika' last='Kieser'] bring balance – Nash with her all-around game and Kieser as a 40% three-point threat. Keep an eye on sophomore [player_tooltip player_id='948888' first='Mallory' last='McBeth'], who gained key experience last season and could emerge as the X-factor. Wayzata's mission is clear: Win the conference and compete for the elusive state title.   Minnetonka   After winning the 2023–24 state title, Minnetonka entered last season with championship expectations but fell short of the ultimate goal. Now, under new head coach Dre Jefferson, the Skippers are reenergized and determined to reclaim their place atop the Lake Conference. Leading the charge is veteran point guard and Grand Canyon commit [player_tooltip player_id='252383' first='Lanelle' last='Wright'], whose leadership and playmaking set the tone for a loaded roster. Surrounding her are 6'2” guard [player_tooltip player_id='630244' first='Jazmin' last='Daing'], 6'1” [player_tooltip player_id='565312' first='Ari' last='Peterson'], and Northern Iowa commit [player_tooltip player_id='717663' first='Le'Sedra' last='Williams'], forming a versatile and athletic lineup that can score from anywhere. Rising 8th grader [player_tooltip player_id='1090087' first='Lariah' last='Wright'] adds spark and future star power. While the Skippers may not have the same depth as some rivals, their starting five is as talented as any in the state. With renewed focus and Wright at the helm, Minnetonka is primed to make another title run.   CONTENDERS   St. Michael-Albertville   Leading the charge for the Knights is do-it-all Colorado commit <a href="https://prepgirlshoops.com/player/cail-jahnke/">Cail Jahnke</a>, joined by 6'2 [player_tooltip player_id='764176' first='Amaya' last='Hinzmann'], who's ready to step into a larger role. This program, led by veteran coach Kent Hamre, is no stranger to success, capturing the 4A state title in 2022. As with many top programs, the Knights have seen roster turnover, losing key contributors to graduation and transfer – including [player_tooltip player_id='764943' first='Mariah' last='Sexton'], now at Maple Grove. Still, with Jahnke's versatility, Hinzmann's emergence, and Hamre's steady leadership, St. Michael-Albertville remains a legitimate contender in what's shaping up to be a highly competitive season.   Eden Prairie   The Eagles are coming off a strong 21-6 season, finishing third in one of the state's toughest conferences. However, they've been hit hard by graduation, losing four of five starters and seven seniors overall. Stepping into larger roles will be 5'10 guard [player_tooltip player_id='662404' first='Emerson' last='Johnson'], along with Rubi Rock, [player_tooltip player_id='502567' first='Jazmyn' last='Hooks'], and 6'4 post [player_tooltip player_id='764218' first='Neema' last='Simbeye']. Depth will be a challenge, but under veteran coach Ellen Wiese, the Eagles are never to be counted out. Expect this group to compete with grit, discipline, and a few of Wiese's trademark adjustments to keep Eden Prairie in the mix.   DARK HORSE   Maple Grove   What a ride it was for the Crimson, finishing 28-3 and earning a runner-up spot in the 4A state championship, falling to new conference rival Hopkins. Like many contenders, the Crimson lost significant leadership and production to graduation but gained a major boost with 6'3 post [player_tooltip player_id='764943' first='Mariah' last='Sexton'] transferring from STMA. Returning standouts [player_tooltip player_id='344332' first='Kate' last='Holmquist'] (Montana commit) and [player_tooltip player_id='589275' first='Sophia' last='Anderson'] (Augustana commit) form a potent one-two punch, with Sexton anchoring the paint. Under Coach Mark Cook, Maple Grove may look different, but expect another disciplined, competitive squad ready to make noise in their Lake Conference debut.   OTHER PLAYERS TO WATCH   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='918684' first='Quinn' last='Kemper'], guard, Edina – The 5'10 sophomore is as skilled as they come, and we're looking forward to seeing her take her game to the next level.</li>   <li>[player_tooltip player_id='994855' first='Izze' last='Austin'], guard, Minnetonka – With her ability to flat-out score, Austin could be the key piece that helps Minnetonka climb back to the top.</li>   <li>[player_tooltip player_id='911664' first='Brianna' last='Eggers'], forward, Buffalo – Coming off a season averaging just under 17 points per game, look for Eggers to showcase just how much her game has evolved.</li>   <li>[player_tooltip player_id='478351' first='Dalia' last='Thornton-Fay'], guard, Hopkins – If healthy, this transfer for Minnetonka could be a major difference-maker – a high-IQ, skilled player with a chip on her shoulder and plenty to prove.</li> </ul>

The Minnesota State High School league regular season is just six weeks away and that means it's time to preview some of the more interesting conferences around the state. Today we're kicking things off with a look at the mighty Lake Conference in the western suburbs of the Twin Cities. As always, the competition is likely to be fierce. This is how we see it.