Notable Prospects from Lakeland vs. Indian River

The Hampton Roads region of Virginia—commonly known as the “Seven Cities”. Provides a home to 47 high school girls basketball programs across Norfolk, Hampton, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Newport News, and Williamsburg. Meaning that on any given night, high-level girls basketball is being played somewhere in the 757.   My journey this time took me into Chesapeake, where Indian River hosted Lakeland (Suffolk) in what turned into a thriller. When the final horn sounded, it was Lakeland walking away with a hard-fought 67–62 victory.   The Recap   Toughness, grit, and resilience defined the night, as Indian River sophomore [player_tooltip player_id='1101468' first='Cierra' last='Selby'] led all scorers with a remarkable 41 points and 12 steals. The lightning-quick guard controlled the defensive end, playing the passing lanes with precision. Selby proved she was adept at baiting ball handlers into a false sense of security, before stepping in front of passes and starting the break.   Selby was just as effective on the ball, repeatedly stripping ball-handlers clean off the dribble and instantly turning defense into offense. Her anticipation, hand speed, and constant pressure created a steady stream of transition opportunities for Indian River.   Behind a 16-point fourth quarter from Selby, the Braves fought their way back into the game after multiple double digit deficits eventually trimming the deficit to three with under a minute remaining before ultimately coming up short.    A tremendous competitor, Selby accounted for 41 of Indian River's 62 points while also recording 12 steals against Lakeland. The left-handed guard possesses an explosive first step along with the length and athleticism to attack the basket from multiple angles.   She is especially dangerous in transition and when operating downhill. This is where her speed and physical tools consistently stress defenses. Continued development of a more consistent mid-range and perimeter jumper, along with improved shot selection, will be important next steps in her progression.   Even so, this Class of 2028 wing clearly possesses the intangibles of a solid prospect, including competitiveness, motor, and natural instincts that translate on both ends of the floor    Not to be outdone, Class of 2026 guard [player_tooltip player_id='1110727' first='Janae' last='Carter'] of Lakeland poured in 31 points. Simultaneously, displaying the leadership and competitive edge coaches covet from their upperclassmen.   Early in the second quarter, Lakeland's Freshman point guard [player_tooltip player_id='1376838' first='Jada' last='Durham']—impressive in her own right with 15 points—began to face intense ball pressure from the Indian River press. Carter responded by assuming primary ball-handling duties, immediately calming the offense. The adjustment freed up 2027 wing Alainah Overton, allowing her to play downhill, pressure the rim, and draw consistent contact—adding another dimension to Lakeland's offense.   The result was a dominant 16-point second quarter from Carter, as she attacked gaps, created opportunities, and ignited the Lakeland offense.   A sequence in the second quarter summed up Carter's play. After driving baseline and absorbing heavy contact on a no-call that led to an Indian River break. Carter immediately popped back to her feet on the baseline, and sprinted the floor tracking down the defensive rebound.    A physical combo guard. Carter possesses the ability to run an offense while also creating scoring opportunities for herself and her teammates. A consistent shooter, she has the ability to score at all three levels and remain effective both on and off the ball.   Her 31-point performance against Indian River highlighted not only her offensive versatility, but also her capacity to lead a team through a hard-fought contest, taking on increased responsibility, managing pressure, and delivering in key moments.     Durham, a Class of 2029 point guard, has only begun to scratch the surface of her potential. The smooth freshman shows a natural ability to get to the rim, and finish with either hand.   At 5'4”, continued physical development and added strength will be important, along with building a more consistent perimeter jumper. Even so, her pace, feel, and attacking instincts point to a high long-term ceiling.   Her 15-point performance against Indian River came just above her season average of 14 points per game. Further reinforcing her ability to contribute immediately while still possessing significant developmental upside.     Overton fills important gaps that help her team be successful. An impressive spot-up shooter. Overton owns a quick, compact release that allows her to get shots off as defenses close.   Within an open offensive system, Overton also shows the ability to attack downhill, and draw contact while finishing. Her combination of perimeter shooting, off-ball value, and slashing ability gives her a versatile offensive profile. Making her a complementary piece who impacts winning.    The Second Half   The second half picked up right where the first ended. Unfolding into a high-octane stretch of basketball with both teams trading 6- and 8-point runs. Lakeland pushed its lead to as many as 18 in the second half. However, Selby and Indian River refused to fade.   It was Class of 2028 guard Naomi Smith, who found her rhythm from the perimeter, on her way to an 11-point performance, Indian River continued to apply pressure and chip away.    Hampered early by an injury to her shooting hand that drew blood. Smith settled in and found ways to impact the game. She did a strong job getting herself open, and converting around the basket, providing much-needed scoring relief for Selby. Where Smith truly shined, however, was on the defensive end. Applying relentless back court pressure. Disrupted ball handlers, and forced a string of bad passes and turnovers. Her efforts stalled Lakeland's offense many times going down the court.    In the end, the Lakeland offense—powered by Carter—proved too much. She sealed the game with a tough and-one finish, sending the Lakeland crowd into a frenzy and silencing the Indian River side.     Key Takeaway:   [player_tooltip player_id='1110727' first='Janae' last='Carter'] projects as a complete guard. Capable of scoring at all three levels while consistently impacting the game with her tenacity, leadership, and two-way presence.   Explosive and dynamic. [player_tooltip player_id='1101468' first='Cierra' last='Selby'] possesses a lightning-quick first step and the length (5'8”) to impact the game from one through the three. She is especially dangerous in the open court, where her speed and aggressiveness hold opposing teams accountable on both offense and defense.

The Hampton Roads region of Virginia—commonly known as the “Seven Cities”. Provides a home to 47 high school girls basketball programs across Norfolk, Hampton, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Newport News, and Williamsburg. Meaning that on any given night, high-level girls basketball is being played somewhere in the 757.