Top 30 on Notice: 2029 Players Making Their Case Pt. 1

The 2029 class continues to separate itself, and a group of rising prospects is making a legitimate argument for inclusion in the current Top 30. Through consistent production, skill development, and impact in high-level settings, these players are challenging the existing rankings and proving they belong in the conversation right now. As performances stack up, the gap between them and the current Top 30 continues to close.    [player_tooltip player_id='1623059' first='Queen' last='Burch'], currently at Bartow, is averaging 20.1 PPG as a freshman production that not many seniors can match. She scores effectively at the rim and from behind the arc, with a season-high 33-point performance and two 30 point games this season.   Queen is new to our radar, but her ability to handle the ball, find open teammates, and compete on both ends of the floor stands out. Add in her smooth shooting form and consistent follow-through, and she is clearly a player to watch as she faces more competitive competition.     [player_tooltip player_id='1309600' first='Ja'Zaria' last='Walker'] (cover photo) is making a strong case to be in the Top 30 in her class. As a freshman, helping lead her team to a 16–2 record this season. She is averaging a double-double with 17.1 PPG and 11.3 rebounds per game. Walker uses advanced footwork in the post to get defenders off balance and finishes high off the glass. She is also an active rim runner who attacks every rebound with relentless effort, and her competitive nature often outworks her opponents.   At 5'10, Walker moves with agility and grace. If she continues contributing at this level in high stakes games, she has the ability to help lead her team on a deep 2A playoff run and prove she can compete with the best.     [player_tooltip player_id='1265834' first='Jillayah' last='McClendon'] is part of a young core at SLAM Tampa that is on a scoring tear, with her and two other teammates averaging double figures this season. McClendon isn't just impressive for her scoring, as she is averaging 13.9 PPG, but also for her all-around impact, posting 3.9 assists per game, 5.4 rebounds per game, and 4.8 steals per game. Her ability to affect the game on both ends of the floor is evident, highlighted by two games this season with double-digit steals.   McClendon has the ability to make a major impact on her team's success during a deep 2A playoff run. Consistently producing in a win or go home environment would further prove that she is built for the big stage.     [player_tooltip player_id='1261255' first='Harmony' last='Lee'] and Fort Walton Beach are currently 16–3 on the season and ranked 53rd in the state. As a freshman, Harmony has been a major contributor to their success and is currently the team's second leading scorer. Her ability to slash to the rim and finish creatively through traffic makes her especially dangerous in transition.   She also does a great job finding cutting teammates, using her ability to change pace with her dribble to create advantages. Lee can finish off one foot or two, adding versatility to her scoring package. The more we follow Harmony, the stronger the case she makes to be ranked in the Top 30.     [player_tooltip player_id='1136121' first='Charlee' last='Matos'], as a freshman, has already earned the respect of opposing teams by being labeled a shooter on scouting reports. However, she is more than just a spot up threat. She can put the ball on the floor, create off the dribble, and use up and under moves and reverses to score against taller defenders. Most impressively, she embraces competition and doesn't shy away from guarding the opposing team's best ball handler often playing her best against tougher competition.   Matos is currently averaging 10.9 PPG, with a season high of 24 points while shooting 63% from the field. With a potential deep run back to the Rural state semifinals and possibly the championship Matos would further strengthen her argument to be ranked in the Top 30.

The 2029 class continues to separate itself, and a group of rising prospects is making a legitimate argument for inclusion in the current Top 30. Through consistent production, skill development, and impact in high-level settings, these players are challenging the existing rankings and proving they belong in the conversation right now. As performances stack up, the gap between them and the current Top 30 continues to close.