Small Guards Making Big Waves in Southern California

Size doesn't define these guards. Their combination of quickness, vision, and scoring makes them highly impactful and forces defenses to stay alert. Here are a few SoCal guards we're keeping an eye on.    She's the number one player in her class for a reason. A complete guard whose work ethic has paid off in a big way, she possesses tools rarely seen at her age. While she's an elite scorer, it's her overall floor game that truly sets her apart. She's never sped up, always in control, and consistently makes the game look easy—not just for herself, but for her teammates as well.   She completely changes the dynamic the moment she steps on the floor, doing whatever her team needs in real time. She can take over a game with her scoring—whether from deep or through a diverse set of finishes at the rim. If defenses take that away, she immediately shifts gears to create opportunities for others. She has become a master of the pick-and-roll, manipulating defenses with poise and patience as she waits for the perfect moment to attack.   Every facet of her game will be on display this season as Ontario Christian pushes to return to the mountaintop.     Jacqueline has been a staple on the scene since middle school, and her game continues to evolve. She's one of the shiftiest guards in the region—capable of losing defenders in an instant with side steps, crossovers, and in-and-out moves. Her ability to create space is elite, allowing her to get into a smooth, deep-range three whenever she wants. Pressure doesn't bother her in the full or half court; she consistently gets downhill, uses her body to shield defenders, and forces opponents into fouls once they're out of position. Expect this lead guard to stuff the stat sheet all season.     Rosie is a smooth, cerebral floor general for JSerra who often sees plays developing before anyone else. Once the ball is in her hands, every teammate becomes a scoring threat. She's fearless with her passing creativity, constantly testing windows to hit streaking cutters and shooters. Rosie plays with great pace—never rushed, always in control. She can shoot it from three, but she also has the craft and athleticism to finish around shot blockers and draw contact. With strong weapons around her, Rosie should thrive and elevate an already talented JSerra squad.     Gigi, the lead guard from Francis Parker, is one of the premier on-ball defenders in Southern California. She's relentless—pressuring 94 feet, forcing turnovers, and blowing up actions before they form. She thrives in chaos: diving for loose balls, jumping passing lanes, and spearheading full-court pressure. Offensively, she's a blur in transition, pushing the pace and creating opportunities early in the shot clock. Add in her leadership and intangible impact, and it's clear she sets the tone for a very talented Francis Parker squad.     As a lead guard for one of the top teams in the state, Cali plays a pivotal role in orchestrating an offense loaded with scoring talent. She initiates sets, keeps the ball moving, and ensures everyone gets touches—while doubling as a reliable secondary playmaker and spot-up shooter. Her vision stands out; she completes high-difficulty passes and delivers the ball with precision. Defensively, she's sharp and instinctive, frequently reading plays early and jumping passing lanes. Cali will be a key anchor for a group with championship aspirations.     Riyanna might be the fastest guard in Southern California — a true one-woman press break difficult to contain in transition. She's learned to harness her elite speed, using it not just to blow past defenders but to make poised, smart decisions with the ball. Defensively, her lateral quickness and athleticism allow her to stay in front of opposing guards and battle bigger players on the glass thanks to her impressive vertical. Offensively, she's shown growth as a shooter, confidently knocking down open threes on kickouts and stopping on a dime to elevate for a smooth midrange jumper. Riyanna is poised for a strong season as a featured guard on a tough, competitive Rosary squad.     Avery more than compensates for her size with excellent feel, toughness, and basketball IQ. Defensively, she battles every possession—refusing to give up ground in the post, fighting for rebounds, and taking on any matchup. On offense, she's a steady floor presence who gets teammates organized while selectively attacking for efficient scoring opportunities. She can beat slower defenders off the dribble or pull up confidently from mid-range and beyond the arc. Avery should have plenty of opportunities to shine for Esperanza this season.

Size doesn't define these guards. Their combination of quickness, vision, and scoring makes them highly impactful and forces defenses to stay alert. Here are a few SoCal guards we're keeping an eye on.