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2 Gems in Each Class

2 Gems in Each Class
Photo: Ignited Basketball –
Hector Marquez
Hector Marquez January 13, 2026 @ 10:25 AM
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In this article:

Ember Yenchik
Ember Yenchik 5'7" | CG | 2029
UT
Kalei Makakona
Kalei Makakona 5'6" | PG/CG | 2029
UT
Audri Orton
Audri Orton 5'8" | SF | 2028
UT
Lyvia Candilora
Lyvia Candilora 5'8" | CG/SG | 2028
UT
Jaycee Barlow
Jaycee Barlow 5'11" | PF | 2026
UT
Emmy Butler
Emmy Butler 5'9" | SF | 2027
UT
Quinn Porter
Quinn Porter 6'0" | SF | 2027
UT
<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Let's take a look at some of the gems in the different classes. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Class of 2026</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["879144"],"_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-6960006259daf"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Barlow is a standout small-school player with a remarkable all-around game. Her combination of size and athleticism sets her apart. Possessing a strong motor and a knack for contributing in multiple areas, she's an ideal candidate if you're searching for a "Gem." She consistently delivers impressive performances, averaging a double-double with over ten rebounds per game while also scoring over 17 points per game.</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":"Lexie Branch","_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":"5'10u0022","_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":"Spanish Fork","_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-6960006259f18"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Branch is not only a Gem at Spanish Fork, but she's also a player to watch this season. Her elite height of 5'10" as a lead guard is impressive. She's a slasher who attacks the basket with a strong motor, making her a player with significant upside who could excel at the next level.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Class of 2027</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["805797"],"_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-6960006259fca"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Quinn might be close to being 6'1, and if she is not, she plays much bigger. With a plus on her wingspan and a stretch forward that can defend 1-5, Porter has been able to move the needle with her development. She has improved her game a lot since she was a freshman. She has shot-making ability from the perimeter, and she is smooth inside with a variety of finishes. Porter is also among the best shot blockers in the state. Porter could be a sneaky find at the D2 level. Steal at the NWAC and with high academics, could easily find her way into an even more impressive situation. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["829855"],"_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-696671e637ca8"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Butler is a 5'9 power guard that can virtually play any position on the floor. She is a grab-and-go athlete who can start the break. She can be off the ball, screen, roll, and pop. Butler has been having a good season, averaging 12 PPG. Butler is a player who will get better through the season and should have a breakout grassroots season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Class of 2028</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["904995"],"_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-696671e637d19"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Orton has enjoyed a strong season despite not being a high-volume scorer. She excels as a playmaker, consistently finding open teammates and distributing the ball effectively. Furthermore, she is a valuable asset on the boards, frequently securing extra possessions for her team. With time to develop, she has the potential to become an even greater contributor.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["879698"],"_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-696671e637d83"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Candilora has a good motor and good size as a guard, possessing ample time for development. She currently contributes solid ball-handling and shooting skills, while also displaying a willingness to defend. Candilora demonstrates a balanced scoring approach, utilizing both inside attacks and outside shooting to accumulate good numbers. Furthermore, she effectively distributes the ball, consistently finding open teammates.s often. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Class of 2029</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1235143"],"_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-696671e637de8"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">One of the most impressive aspects of Yenchik's game this season is her motor. Win or lose, she has a motor that is always on. She is constantly moving, and before you know it, she is going to be defending at a high level. Ember has attacking ability as she finds ways to get to the rim, and she also has catch-and-shoot ability. A lot of upside.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["952624"],"_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-696671e637e4b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Makakona was one of the players we highlighted previously, even before she entered the 9th grade. She currently leads the team in assists and points scored, a remarkable accomplishment for a freshman. West Jordan will be battling for 2nd place in region play, and Makakona could be a key piece for them to achieve that.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->

Let's take a look at some of the gems in the different classes.

Jaycee Barlow

Jaycee Barlow

UT
PF
HEIGHT 5'11"
POS PF
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Jaycee
Barlow PF
Class
2026
Height
5'11"
HS
Enterprise
|
UT
2 Gems in Each Class
Barlow is a standout small-school player with a remarkable all-around game. Her combination of size and athleticism sets...
Written by Hector Marquez
Read more at PrepGirlsHoops.com
Prep Girls Hoops

Jaycee Barlow

State: Utah
School: Enterprise
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation
Lexie Branch

Lexie Branch

HEIGHT 5'10"
POS PG
CLASS 2026

Lexie Branch

School: Spanish Fork
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation
Quinn Porter

Quinn Porter

UT
SF
HEIGHT 6'0"
POS SF
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Quinn
Porter SF
Class
2027
Height
6'0"
HS
Bingham
|
UT
2 Gems in Each Class
Quinn might be close to being 6’1, and if she is not, she plays much bigger. With a...
Written by Hector Marquez
Read more at PrepGirlsHoops.com
Prep Girls Hoops

Quinn Porter

Instagram
State: Utah
School: Bingham
Club: E5 Select
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Emmy Butler

Emmy Butler

UT
SF
HEIGHT 5'9"
POS SF
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Emmy
Butler SF
Class
2027
Height
5'9"
HS
Grantsville
|
UT
2 Gems in Each Class
Butler is a 5’9 power guard that can virtually play any position on the floor. She is a...
Written by Hector Marquez
Read more at PrepGirlsHoops.com
Prep Girls Hoops

Emmy Butler

State: Utah
School: Grantsville
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation
Audri Orton

Audri Orton

UT
SF
HEIGHT 5'8"
POS SF
CLASS 2028
View Player
​
Audri
Orton SF
Class
2028
Height
5'8"
HS
Dixie
|
UT
2 Gems in Each Class
Orton has enjoyed a strong season despite not being a high-volume scorer. She excels as a playmaker, consistently...
Written by Hector Marquez
Read more at PrepGirlsHoops.com
Prep Girls Hoops

Audri Orton

State: Utah
School: Dixie
Club: SUSA Gold
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Lyvia Candilora

Lyvia Candilora

UT
CG/SG
HEIGHT 5'8"
POS CG/SG
CLASS 2028
View Player
​
Lyvia
Candilora CG/SG
Class
2028
Height
5'8"
HS
Judge Memorial
|
UT
2 Gems in Each Class
Candilora has a good motor and good size as a guard, possessing ample time for development. She currently...
Written by Hector Marquez
Read more at PrepGirlsHoops.com
Prep Girls Hoops

Lyvia Candilora

Instagram Twitter
State: Utah
School: Judge Memorial
Club: Utah Lady Prospects Gold
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Ember Yenchik

Ember Yenchik

UT
CG
HEIGHT 5'7"
POS CG
CLASS 2029
View Player
​
Ember
Yenchik CG
Class
2029
Height
5'7"
HS
Provo
|
UT
2 Gems in Each Class
One of the most impressive aspects of Yenchik’s game this season is her motor. Win or lose, she...
Written by Hector Marquez
Read more at PrepGirlsHoops.com
Prep Girls Hoops

Ember Yenchik

Instagram
State: Utah
School: Provo
Club: E5 Select
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Kalei Makakona

Kalei Makakona

UT
PG/CG
HEIGHT 5'6"
POS PG/CG
CLASS 2029
View Player
​
Kalei
Makakona PG/CG
Class
2029
Height
5'6"
HS
West Jordan
|
UT
2 Gems in Each Class
Makakona was one of the players we highlighted previously, even before she entered the 9th grade. She currently...
Written by Hector Marquez
Read more at PrepGirlsHoops.com
Prep Girls Hoops

Kalei Makakona

Instagram Twitter
State: Utah
School: West Jordan
Club: Utah Summit
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

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