Coach Kipp's Hoop Fest: Saturday Starters

Coach Darryl Koop was an influential leader in Illinois girls basketball, playing a vital role in advancing the sport for young women at both the grassroots and high school levels. Through his relentless dedication to the game, he inspired countless female athletes and helped elevate the standards for girls basketball programs across the state. Koop was known not only for his expertise on the court, but also for his advocacy—creating more opportunities for girls and supporting their growth as athletes and individuals. His mentorship shaped the ambitions and careers of many young women, and his positive impact continues today through those he guided as players and coaches. This weekend's games are dedicated to his legacy. Let's take a look at some of the girls who dominated in the first game on Saturday.    Shelton is one of the few players who is always on an upward trajectory. She improves with every game-something that needs to happen to play at the next level. All of the skills she's always had have become sharper—she's better, stronger, and faster than ever before. Her maturity and leadership on the court is impossible to miss. The college that lands her is getting a steal-great things come to those who wait!     Sakalas just makes everything look easy. Her work on the court looks effortless. Iron sharpens iron and if you play on the Nazareth team, you are meant for greatness-she helps the players around her get better. Scoring (while she is really good at that) isn't her only strength, a rebound doesn't get past her hands when she is in the paint. Her physical presence is a menace for her opponents.     It is going to be fun to watch Mia in the coming years. Under Eddie Stritzel's coaching and the talent that surrounds her, she is going to propel to one of the best players in Illinois. Not only does she have innate talent, but as a freshman, she is blessed with IQ. Her length, athleticism and speed will continue to refine and you may not see anyone better.     I love what Sam brings to this Nazareth team. Her impact goes far beyond numbers. She consistently shuts down opponents, anticipates passes, and forces turnovers. She might not always fill up the stat sheet, but her relentless effort and smart positioning make her a difference-maker every time she's on the court. The glue player you can't play without.     Sharpshooter Sophia. One of the best shooters in Illinois from three-point range. Her quick footwork opens her up for tough shots even when defenders are putting on pressure-and they always are. Defensively, you can see her improvements. Her movements are more controlled and defends without fouling. She's a great combo of elite shooting and smart defense.

Coach Darryl Koop was an influential leader in Illinois girls basketball, playing a vital role in advancing the sport for young women at both the grassroots and high school levels. Through his relentless dedication to the game, he inspired countless female athletes and helped elevate the standards for girls basketball programs across the state. Koop was known not only for his expertise on the court, but also for his advocacy—creating more opportunities for girls and supporting their growth as athletes and individuals. His mentorship shaped the ambitions and careers of many young women, and his positive impact continues today through those he guided as players and coaches. This weekend's games are dedicated to his legacy. Let's take a look at some of the girls who dominated in the first game on Saturday.