Top emerging underclassmen across Iowa

As the high school season in Iowa starts to hit the home stretch, it's important for teams to be clicking at the right time and for athletes to be playing their best hoops. Across the state, I have seen some impressive newcomers who have helped their respective teams with impressive performances and big-time averages thus far this season. These underclassmen have delivered at a high level and have continually contributed to their team's momentum as the heart of in-conference play has arrived. Continue reading to see which young guns are stepping up and making waves!    A newcomer to Bishop Heelan High School this season, [player_tooltip player_id='1305404' first='Ella' last='Otten'], has exploded on to the scene in Western Iowa hoops. The 5'8" combo guard brings size and depth at Heelan's point guard position, strong ball-handling skills, and a quick trigger from behind the arc. The sophomore plays with experience and precision — she's averaging 14.6 points per game and is scoring at an elite clip (50% FG and 44% 3PT). With a strong supporting cast and impressive play from Otten this year, all eyes are on the Heelan Crusaders to finish their currently-undefeated season with a bang this year at the State Tournament. I would also have my eyes on Otten to make waves through 2026 and into this summer's AAU competition.     [player_tooltip player_id='883553' first='Quinn' last='Pershing'] is a great example of the old motto, "Good things come to those who work." She didn't see a ton of minutes as a Freshman on a loaded Mount Vernon squad last season, and that did not deter her — she has continued to stay committed and I can tell you firsthand this girl puts in the work. On another strong Mustang team this year Quinn has started 16/17 games and has improved her scoring average from last year's 2.2 points per game, to 11.2 this year as a sophomore. Pershing is of the best deep threats in the WaMaC conference this year (shooting nearly 40% from 3PT), and makes defenses pay by hitting nearly 90% of her attempts at the free-throw line as well. Her contribution this season has helped MV string together an impressive 13-game win streak, and they are showing no signs of slowing down.     Sophomore [player_tooltip player_id='902348' first='Whitney' last='Brady'] has joined the North Linn Lynx and immediately made an impact. Coming off a 5.5 point per game freshman season in the Tri-Rivers Conference (1A), Brady has embraced her new role on a new team and leveled up as a sophomore. This year she's seen her stats jump across the board, including in scoring (11.4), rebounding (6.9), and steals (3). The 5'9" combo guard stuffed the stat sheet in her last outing vs. Easton Valley, with 12 points, 6 rebounds, 5 steals and 2 blocked shots. Her efforts have helped North Linn win five of their last six games, only dropping one to 1A powerhouse Springville — Brady is helping pace the Lynx in the right direction.     [player_tooltip player_id='1583042' first='Jada' last='Wiltz'] has stepped into the varsity spotlight at Iowa City Regina and has not missed a beat. Bringing size and athleticism, the 5'9' combo guard has impressed across many levels. She has started every game this season and is one of the top contributors on her team in every statistical category (12.9PPG, 4.8RPG, 2.5SPG). One of my favorite aspects of Wiltz's game is her quick trigger — she has a solid, fundamental shot and consistent footwork on flares and relocations behind the arc. I am looking forward to Jada's growth throughout her career, and the finish of her freshman season as she helps pace the Regals into the postseason.     As far as freshmen go, Kate Limbaugh has been one of the most impressive in Class 3A. She is a workhorse on both sides of the ball, and her efforts have paid off. The youngster is nearly averaging a double-double with 14.3 points per game and 9.1 rebounds, and has helped push the Algona Bulldogs to a 7-1 record in the North Central Conference (11-4 overall). She also plays beyond her age in regard to efficiency — she's shooting 66% from the floor and a reliable 82% from the free throw line. If I were a college coach, I would buy stock in Kate Limbaugh now — this 6'1" center is just getting started.

As the high school season in Iowa starts to hit the home stretch, it's important for teams to be clicking at the right time and for athletes to be playing their best hoops. Across the state, I have seen some impressive newcomers who have helped their respective teams with impressive performances and big-time averages thus far this season. These underclassmen have delivered at a high level and have continually contributed to their team's momentum as the heart of in-conference play has arrived. Continue reading to see which young guns are stepping up and making waves!