Week 2 Spotlight: Fresh Faces and Rising Stars

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I had the chance to watch two exciting games in Week 2 of the 2025–2026 season, and several young and experienced players stood out.&nbsp;<strong>Sophomore guard [player_tooltip player_id='999412' first='Bella' last='Ramsey']</strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>sophomore center [player_tooltip player_id='890889' first='Emily' last='Zack']</strong>&nbsp;both delivered outstanding performances for their respective schools. Westfield also showcased two impressive underclassmen—<strong>freshman guards [player_tooltip player_id='1267070' first='Lillian' last='Clark'] and [player_tooltip player_id='1263930' first='Gabby' last='Bassett']</strong>—who made a significant impact in their opening conference game against Fishers.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>For Fishers, <strong>senior center [player_tooltip player_id='486553' first='Natalie' last='Thomas']</strong> has gotten off to a strong start, consistently scoring in double figures while providing steady leadership on and off the court. Sophomore guards <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='992140' first='Reagan' last='Reiff']</strong> and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='992346' first='Ella' last='Burleson']</strong> have also been key contributors, adding offensive firepower and versatility to this young Tigers squad.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Overall, both of these&nbsp;<strong>Sectional 8 matchups</strong>&nbsp;were among the most exciting games of the week, featuring high-level talent, emerging underclassmen, and players who could have a major impact as the season progresses.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Game Summary: Carmel vs. Zionsville </strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Zionsville jumped out to an early lead, going up by six points at the end of the first quarter. Carmel, however, responded with a strong second quarter, scoring 15 points to take the lead heading into halftime. Both teams showcased their offensive talent, especially their standout underclassmen.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Zionsville returned most of its roster from last year and has opened the season on a strong note. Junior guard <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='932696' first='Emma' last='Tinder']</strong> set the tone early with an aggressive offensive start, scoring 7 points in the first half. Another 2027 standout, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='890889' first='Emily' last='Zack']</strong>, led the Eagles with 14 points. She controlled the paint throughout the night, creating matchup problems for Carmel down the stretch. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='579969' first='McKenzie' last='Chapman']</strong> added 9 points, while junior shooting guard <strong>Ellie </strong><b>Frobig</b> contributed 6.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>For Carmel, the second quarter shifted the momentum. Sophomore guard&nbsp;<strong>[player_tooltip player_id='999412' first='Bella' last='Ramsey']</strong>&nbsp;delivered an impressive offensive performance, finishing with 21 points by consistently attacking the rim and knocking down smooth pull-up jumpers. She put heavy pressure on Zionsville's defense all game. Senior guard&nbsp;<strong>[player_tooltip player_id='486554' first='Jacobi' last='Warren']</strong>&nbsp;finished with 11 points, most of them coming in the first half where she caught fire from beyond the arc, going 3-for-4 to help Carmel grab the lead. Sophomore guard&nbsp;<strong>[player_tooltip player_id='990047' first='Maddy' last='Wallace']</strong>&nbsp;added 9 points of her own, continuing her strong start to the season as a reliable attacker and playmaker. Her contributions have helped Carmel open the year with a strong 4–1 record.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Carmel (4–1) maintained control in the second half and closed out a 50–39 victory, marking their best start to a season since 2020–2021. The loss was the first of the year for Zionsville (3–1), who are also off to their best start since the 2023–2024 season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Top Players with an offensive performance take over</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["932696"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69219722de4a2"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Junior guard [player_tooltip player_id='932696' first='Emma' last='Tinder']</strong> was the second-leading scorer in an intense matchup against Carmel, and she played with confidence from start to finish. She shot the ball well throughout the night, consistently finding her rhythm and locating the spots on the floor where she is most effective. Whether it was pulling up in the mid-range or attacking in transition, Tinder demonstrated a strong understanding of how to create her own shot. Her ability to generate high-quality scoring opportunities stood out, especially in key moments when Zionsville needed steady offensive production. Beyond her scoring, her poise and decision-making reflect the significant varsity experience she brings to this roster. That veteran presence has been invaluable for a Zionsville team that leans on its junior class, and Tinder continues to be one of the reliable anchors in their backcourt.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["890889"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69219722de522"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='890889' first='Emily' last='Zack']</strong> has put together a strong string of offensive performances to open the season, and she continued that trend in Zionsville's matchup against Carmel. Her impact was especially noticeable in the second half, where she repeatedly finished through contact and established herself as a reliable option around the rim. Zack showed patience in the post, good footwork, and the ability to seal defenders deep in the paint—making her a difficult matchup for Carmel's interior defense. She finished the night as Zionsville's leading scorer with 14 points, providing a steady presence during key stretches of the game. As a junior center, Zack has become an essential part of this Zionsville team, contributing both scoring and physicality. Her growth has been a major reason for the team's strong start, and with three of Zionsville's top scorers all being juniors, the future looks promising for this experienced but still developing group.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["999412"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69219722de597"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">This <strong>sophomore guard</strong> has opened the season looking poised for a breakout year—both for herself and for Carmel. She has embraced a leadership role early, aiming to help elevate and turn the Carmel program in the right direction. That effort was on full display in her matchup against Zionsville, where she put together an exceptional offensive performance. She shot an impressive <strong>8-for-10 from the field</strong>, consistently attacking the basket, finishing through contact, and getting to the free-throw line. She closed the night with a <strong>team-high 21 points</strong>, setting the tone for Carmel's offense and providing the spark they needed in crucial moments. Her strong performance didn't go unnoticed, as she also picked up an offer from <strong>Taylor University</strong>, reflecting the growing recognition of her talent and potential.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Game Summary: Fishers vs. Westfield </strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Westfield jumped out to an early lead on the Tigers, opening the game with a 10–4 advantage.&nbsp;<strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1267070' first='Lillian' last='Clark']</strong>, who came off the bench, provided an immediate spark by knocking down two threes against Fishers' pressure defense. Westfield has four seniors on its roster, but several of its younger players are logging important varsity minutes, which has been a major boost early in the season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The 2029 guard duo of&nbsp;<strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1267070' first='Lillian' last='Clark']</strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1263930' first='Gabby' last='Bassett']</strong>&nbsp;led the way, with Clark finishing with a team-high&nbsp;<strong>16 points</strong>and Bassett adding&nbsp;<strong>10 points</strong>. Senior guard&nbsp;<strong>Makayla Hatcher</strong>&nbsp;chipped in&nbsp;<strong>11 points</strong>, while sophomore guard&nbsp;<strong>[player_tooltip player_id='751053' first='Ellie' last='Wheeler']</strong>&nbsp;added&nbsp;<strong>8</strong>, giving Westfield a balanced offensive performance.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>For Fishers, despite a slow start, the Tigers put together a much stronger second half. Senior center and Bethel University commit <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='486553' first='Natalie' last='Thomas']</strong> led the way with <strong>14 points</strong>, scoring efficiently in the paint. The 2028 backcourt of <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='992140' first='Reagan' last='Reiff']</strong>and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='992346' first='Ella' last='Burleson']</strong> each added <strong>11 points</strong>, helping fuel a 25-point second-half surge. Their effort allowed Fishers to cut into what had been a 15-point halftime deficit.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Overall, <strong>Westfield (4–2)</strong> is off to its best start in two years. They started strong and maintained their lead throughout, holding off Fishers' late push. <strong>Fishers (3–3)</strong> showed a lot of fight—especially in the closing minutes—and has the pieces to become a tough team once sectional play arrives. A postseason rematch between these two squads is certainly possible.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Top Players with an offensive performance take over</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1267070"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69219722de60d"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1267070' first='Lillian' last='Clark']</strong> delivered a strong offensive performance against Fishers, coming off the bench to score <strong>16 points</strong> while shooting an impressive <strong>4-for-6 from three</strong>. She consistently found her spots on the floor and showed excellent awareness, getting her shot off quickly before Fishers' defense could close out. Clark's ability to create her own looks was one of the most impressive parts of her game. She used a variety of offensive moves to free herself and displayed a skill that is difficult for many young guards—<strong>shooting effectively off the dribble</strong>. Her confidence and shot-making gave Westfield a major lift and played a significant role in their early momentum. With her skill set, poise, and scoring versatility, Clark projects to be an impactful player for Westfield over the next three years.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["486531"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69219722de679"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Senior guard Makayla Hatcher</strong> is the clear leader of this young Westfield team, and she has done an excellent job of guiding her teammates both vocally and on the court. She ended the night with <strong>11 points</strong>, but her impact went beyond the box score. Hatcher consistently found her spots on the floor, attacked the basket when needed, and made smart decisions in crucial moments. Her ability to balance scoring with leadership has been invaluable for a team that relies heavily on underclassmen for major minutes. Hatcher's experience and poise have made her a stabilizing force for Westfield, especially when the game is tight or momentum shifts. As the team looks ahead, they face two of the state's top programs—<strong>Pike</strong> and <strong>Franklin Central</strong>—both of which are favorites to make deep postseason runs. Hatcher's leadership and steady offensive play will be critical in helping Westfield stay competitive against these elite opponents, and she will be looked upon to continue guiding this young squad as they aim for a strong finish to the season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["486553"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69219722de6e1"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Senior center [player_tooltip player_id='486553' first='Natalie' last='Thomas']</strong>, a Bethel University commit, has gotten off to a strong offensive start this season, currently averaging <strong>12.6 points per game</strong>. She consistently puts herself in positions to either score efficiently or make smart passes, often finding teammates in the corners or wings for open threes. Watching her in action is exciting—her footwork, agility, and court awareness make her a difficult matchup in the paint, creating constant problems for opposing defenses like Westfield. Thomas elevated her performance against Westfield, finishing the night <strong>with 14 points</strong>, exceeding her season average. Her combination of scoring ability, vision, and leadership has already made a big impact this year, and it will be exciting to see how she continues to perform throughout her senior season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["992140"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69219722de743"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Sophomore guard [player_tooltip player_id='992140' first='Reagan' last='Reiff']</strong> has been delivering a strong offensive performance for the Tigers this season. One of the most impressive aspects of her game has been her ability to read defenses and capitalize off-ball, whether coming off screens or running in transition. She's equally effective finishing at the rim or spotting up beyond the arc for clean three-point opportunities. Against Westfield, Reiff came out firing in the second half, knocking down <strong>3-of-4 three-pointers</strong> to help her team cut into Westfield's lead. Her combination of quickness, shooting touch, and ability to create her own shot makes her a dynamic scoring threat. As the season progresses, Reiff is poised to be especially dangerous in the postseason, where her skill set could have a major impact once Sectionals arrive.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["992346"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69219722de7b2"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Sophomore guard [player_tooltip player_id='992346' first='Ella' last='Burleson']</strong> has been effectively running both the point guard and shooting guard positions for the Tigers—a challenging task that requires both distributing the ball and creating her own scoring opportunities. She is currently averaging <strong>8.6 points per game</strong> along with <strong>3 assists</strong> and is shooting an impressive <strong>48% from beyond the arc</strong>. Those numbers are especially notable given the dual responsibilities she carries on the floor. In addition to her offensive contributions, Burleson brings energy and excitement with her defensive effort, consistently making plays that spark the team. Her ability to balance scoring, playmaking, and leadership makes her a key part of Fishers' backcourt. As the season progresses, she is poised to continue being a significant offensive threat while guiding this young team toward success.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->