CT Watchlist: Top Standouts to know 2025-26

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Fairfield county continues to produce some of the deepest, most competitive girls basketball talent in the state, and this year's group of rising standouts is no exception. Across Greenwich, Trumbull, Warde, Staples, Stamford, and Ridgefield, several players are poised to take major steps forward and elevate their programs. From versatile high wings to high IQ guards and interior anchors, this class is loaded with players who impact the game on both ends. Below are the top emerging names to know heading into the season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Greenwich Cardinals Season Preview </h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Greenwich opened the season with a hard-fought 38-30 win over Conard, setting an early tone for what looks like a strong year ahead. The Cardinals leaned on their composure, defensive pressure, and ability to generate timely offense when the game tightened. It was clear that both Zuri Faison and Madi Utzinger played stabilizing roles throughout their matchup. Their energy, communication, and resilience stood out in critical stretches, especially as Greenwich protected a late lead. The team's overall discipline helped them grind out possessions against a physical Conard squad. The win offers a promising glimpse of how this group can respond when challenged. Greenwich now turns its attention to maintaining that momentum throughout conference play. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Zuri Faison","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2029","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"null","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"12120","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Greenwich ","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-693c500a97cce"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Freshman center Zuri Faison has already made a major impact for Greenwich, combing size, athleticism, and defensive instincts uncommon for her age. She was named to All-State and All-FCIAC honors in her first varsity season, posting impressive totals in scoring, rebounding, blocks, and steals. Faison regularly asserted herself in the paint, using her strength and mobility to score inside and protect the rim. Her ability to impact both ends of the floor gives Greenwich a clear interior anchor and opens space for perimeter shooters. Faison's rebounding and quick hands create transition opportunities that benefit her teammates. She approaches the game with confidence and competitiveness, rarely shrinking from physical matchups. As she continues to refine her post footwork and outside touch, her game will become even harder to defend. Faison is one of the most exiting underclass talents and should be a cornerstone for Greenwich for years. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Madi Utzinger ","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2027","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"5'8u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"12125","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Greenwich ","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-693c500a97ddd"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Madi Utzinger brings a well rounded offensive skill set and tremendous energy to the Greenwich lineup. She has shown the ability to score in isolation, push the pace in transition, and make smart reads in the half court. Utzinger's scoring output was a key factor in key FCIAC victories, including a strong showing against Stamford where she led all scorers. Her defensive intensity often leads to timely stops and fast break opportunities for her squad. Utzinger's mix of aggression and poise allows her to take over games when needed while still contributing to team ball movement. She plays with a high motor and consistently competes on every possession. With leadership experience as a veteran on a contending Greenwich team, she's poised for another productive season. Continued improvement in her perimeter shooting could make her an even more dynamic offensive threat. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trumbull Eagles Season Preview </h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Trumbull opens its 2025-26 season on December 12 against Hamden, and the Eagles are eager to get off to a strong start. Led by versatile wing Karley Johnston, the team blends experienced players with promising underclass talent. Coacjes are emphasizing defense, ball movement, and composure in close games. The Hamden matchup will give the first glimpse of how the Eagles are shaping up for the season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Karley Johnston ","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2028","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"null","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"12124","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Trumbull ","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-693c500a97ecd"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Karley Johnston has been a consistent contributor for Trumbull, bringing size, toughness, and versatility to the lineup. She plays with a physical edge, mixing rebounding with hard cuts to the basket and clean finishes around the rim. Johnston's ability to guard multiple positions adds flexibility to Trumbull's defensive schemes. She doesn't always fill the box score, but her presence is felt in the flow of the game: setting strong screens, securing possesion, and making the extra pass. As she gains experience, Johnston's offensive confidence and shot selection have steadily improved. Her athleticism allows her to finish in traffic and compete effectively on the boards. With growth in mid-range scoring and decision making, she could become one of Trumbull's go-to players. Expect her influence on both ends to expand as she matures into a leader for the Eagles. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Warde Mustangs Season Preview </h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Fairfield Warde opens its season against Bridgeport Central on January 13th, and the Mustangs are ready to make a statement. With key contributors like Ava Feay and Sofia Hardiman, Warde combines, scoring, versatility, and leadership. Coaches are focusing on team chemisrty, defensive intensity, and executing efficently on offense. The Bridgeport Central matchup will offer the first look at how the Mustangs are looking for this season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Ava Feay ","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2027","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"5'10u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"12125","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Fairfield Warde ","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-693c500a97fb5"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Ava Feay has been a key perimeter scorer and offensive facilitator for Warde. She combines a smooth shooting stroke and solid decision making, giving the Mustangs reliable spacing and ball movement. Feay's contributions helped Warde stay competitive in league play, and she earned All-FCIAC recognition for her efforts. Her ability to hit timely shots from deep, stretches defenses, and creates driving lanes. Feay also plays with a sense of poise that elevates her team's composure in tight moments. On defense she's active, communicating and working hard to contain ball handlers. Her versatility allows her to guard multiple positions, and her effort in loose-ball situations reflects her competitive nature. Feay's leadership and scoring will be vital as Warde aims to build on last season's success. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Sofia Hardiman ","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2029","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"5'10u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"12122","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Fairfield Warde ","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-693c65841c945"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Forward Sofia Hardiman adds strength and paint scoring to Warde's system, showing early promise with impact performances in key games. She led Warde in scoring during the FCIAC championship matchup, displaying physicality and scoring instincts that put her on the map. Hardiman attacks the basket with aggression and finishes well through contact. Her rebounding hustle helps Warde secure extra possessions and transition opportunities. Defensively her physical presence deters interior scoring and gives the Mustangs a more balanced frontline. She shows comfort with scoring in the post and stepping out for quick jumpers when available. Hardiman's continued development in footwork and passing will make her even more complete offensive threat. As she gains more varsity experience, she's poised to be a difference maker in the paint for Warde. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Staples Wreckers Season Preview </h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Staples opens its season on December 12th against Cheshire, setting the stage for an early test against a traditionally tough opponent. The Wreckers return a strong core and are emphasizing pace, defensive discipline, and balnaced scoring heading into the new year. With developing talent and growing experience across the roster, Staples is aiming to come out sharp and establish momentum right away. Their matchup with Cheshire will offer the first glimpse of how competitive this group can be. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Chloe Smith","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2028","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"null","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"12125","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Staples High School","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-693c65841c9ee"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Chloe Smith is one of the most dynamic playmakers, combining scoring with defensive intensity. She earned All-FCIAC First Team honors after leading Staples with high scoring outputs and consistent two-way performance. Smith's ability to create her own shot, whether driving to the rim or pulling up from the perimeter, keeps defenses on edge. Her quick first step and strong body control allow her to finish through contact. On defense, she uses anticipation and athleticism to generate steals and disrupt passing lanes. Smith's leadership on the court helps set the tone for Staples competitive identity. As she refines her decision-making and ball distribution, she'll be even tougher to contain. With continued growth, she's on track to be one of the leagues most impactful guards over the next few seasons. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Stamford Black Knights Season Preview </h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Stamford tips off its 2025-26 season on December 12th against West Haven, opening with a matchup that should immediately test the Black Knights toughness and execution. With a roster that blends athleticism and emerging young talent, Stamford is focused on sharpening its defense and improving offensive efficiency. The team has emphasized communication and pressure defense throughout preseason work. Their season opener versus West Haven will provide the first look as how well the Black Knights can translate that. preparation into real game situations. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Jalynn Presley ","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2027 ","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"null","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"12125","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Stamford High School ","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-693c65841ca7c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Jalynn Presley brings energy and quickness to the Stamford backcourt, consistently pressing defenders and creating offense in transition. Though detailed public stats aren't widely available, game reports highlight her ability to pressure the ball and make plays when Stamford needs momentum. Presley's speed and physicality allow her to attack the rim and challenge defenders in one-on-one situations. She competes hard on defense, using her lateral quickness to stay in front of ball-handlers. Offensively she mixes scoring with playmaking, finding open teammates while also taking smart shots. Presley's aggressiveness often ignites Stamford's energy and keeps opponents off balance. As her confidence grows, her shot consistency is expected to rise as well. With continued development, Presley is set to be a key contributor for Stamford's future. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ridgefield Tigers Season Preview </h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Ridgefield opened its season on December 10th with a matchup against Bethel, giving the Tigers their first opportunity to test their potations and early-season chemistry. While official stats from that game are not yet available, Ridgefield used the opener to establish pace, defensive intensity, and improved communication across the lineup. The Tigers now shift their focus to a tough December 13th matchup against Mercy, a game that will provide a clear sense of. where this group stacks up against the competition. With key contributors like Sophie Desiano and Cathryn Mills leading the charge, Ridgefield looks to build momentum as they continue through a challenging early schedule. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Sophie Desiano ","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"5'7u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"12123","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Ridgefield High School ","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_program":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-693c65841cb04"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Sophie Desiano was a central piece in Ridgefield's successful season, earning FCIAC championship MVP honors after leading her team with poise and clutch play. Desiano's scoring and decision making make her a threat in both catch-and-shoot and drive-and-kick situations. She balances scoring with facilitating, making smart reads and setting up teammates effectively. Her calm demeanor under pressure gives Ridgefield a steadying presence late in games. Defensively she communicates well and uses anticipation to create turnovers. Desiano's leadership has helped anchor Ridgefield's championship culture. With continued refinement of her perimeter shooting and playmaking, she'll be a key driver of Ridgefield's success again. She's one of the conferences most reliable two-way guards. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1321171"],"_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-693c65841cb57"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Sophomore forward Cathryn Mills gives Ridgefield valuable size, rebounding, and interior scoring punch. She earned All-FCIAC honors as a key contributor on both ends of the floor. Mills competes physically in the paint, finishing strong around the rim and battling for rebounds. Her presence on the boards limits second-chance opportunities for opponents while creating possessions for Ridgefield. Mills also stretches defenses by stepping out for mid-range looks when available. She's a willing defender, taking on post responsibilities and rotating to help teammates. As her offensive skill set continues to grow, Mills is poised to become an even bigger scoring threat. Her combination of size and effort make her an emerging front court force in the league. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->