Skilled and Versatile SoCal Forwards To Watch

These hybrid forwards continue to redefine and evolve the game. These girls do a little bit of everything: shoot the three, bring the ball up the floor, score with their back to the basket, and everything in between. Here are some notable forwards we're keeping an eye on in SoCal.    There isn't much Sydney can't do on the court. Offensively, she plays with impressive fluidity — a smooth shooting stroke that extends beyond the three-point line and a deep bag of finishes around the basket, scoring over, under, and through defenders. Her face-up game is highly advanced for her age, featuring polished footwork, quick jabs, spins, and rips that allow her to create space in multiple ways. Defensively, she's dominant — versatile enough to switch onto guards while protecting the paint as a rim deterrent. Expect a big year from Sydney on a loaded Corona-Centennial squad.     Alexie is a talented playmaker who often initiates Windward's offense, using her size and speed to keep defenses off balance. She's aggressive attacking the rim, drawing fouls, and creating opportunities for teammates in space. A high-level athlete, Alexie impacts the game on the glass and as a disruptive defender. With an expanded role this season, she's poised to make a major impact for a strong Windward team.     Emerson does a little bit of everything for her team, taking on more point guard responsibilities this year. She has the quickness to beat bigger defenders off the dribble and finish at the rim, while also showing the strength and skill to post up smaller guards. Her ability to stretch the floor with consistent outside shooting makes her a tough matchup from any spot. Expect a productive junior campaign from Emerson.     Zetta is a true stretch forward with a polished inside-out game. Her strong base allows her to establish deep position against any defender, where she shows patience and skill with fakes, hooks, and up-and-under moves. She's just as dangerous from the perimeter, knocking down shots confidently out to the three-point line. Coming off a stellar sophomore season, Zetta is primed to make even more noise for Chaparral this year.     Akemi has been a cornerstone for Flintridge Prep's success over the last three seasons. A true point forward, she seamlessly runs the offense — bringing the ball up, facilitating from the high post, and creating from the block. Her passing instincts and court awareness stand out, consistently finding open teammates for easy scores. With a quick release that extends beyond the arc, Akemi continues to evolve as an all-around player. She'll look to close out her career sustaining Flintridge Prep's winning tradition.     Izzy is a dynamic all-around player who consistently finds ways to make an impact. She stretches the floor with her shooting, finishes efficiently in traffic, and crashes the boards with energy. Her nonstop motor allows her to win 50-50 balls, rotate defensively, and make plays others won't. As the anchor of a talented San Clemente team, Izzy is poised for a breakout year.     Bonita brings a strong intensity to the court and a competitive edge. She displays excellent footwork both when operating out of the post and making secondary moves off of her initial drives. You may be noticing a trend here, but Bonita is also an excellent shooter. She also has no problem making plays for her teammates, using her strength to operate in space while also being a strong rebounder.

These hybrid forwards continue to redefine and evolve the game. These girls do a little bit of everything: shoot the three, bring the ball up the floor, score with their back to the basket, and everything in between. Here are some notable forwards we're keeping an eye on in SoCal.