4A Tournament: Key Players

The bracket for the 4A tournament is set, and there are some intriguing matchups. There is a wealth of talent spread throughout the bracket. Here, we look at a few of the key players in the 4A state tournament    Ary is the tone-setter for this young Lancers group. The junior forward impacts the game on both ends and doesn't need plays called for her to produce. She rebounds out of her area, runs the floor hard, and finishes through contact. What stands out most is her defensive activity — she contests without fouling and rotates early. If the Lancers make a serious run, it'll be because their junior anchor controls the paint and wins the effort possessions     Cousins is the steady hand for Cactus Shadows. The senior guard plays with poise and understands pace. She can handle pressure, create her own shot, and score in multiple ways — off the bounce, mid-range, or from deep when defenders go under. In tournament settings, guard play matters most, and Cousins' ability to control tempo will determine how far Cactus Shadows goes. If she's efficient and limits turnovers, they're dangerous.     Nemo is the engine. Everything runs through her. She's a high-volume scorer, but it's not empty production — she impacts every phase of the game. She rebounds from the guard spot, pushes in transition, and competes defensively. When she's aggressive early, Estrella Foothills feeds off that energy. For them to survive the 4A gauntlet, Sidhu has to stay in attack mode and put pressure on opposing defenses from the opening tip.     One of Southern Arizona's most reliable performers. Amarellis brings physicality, maturity, and consistency to Walden Grove. She scores inside, cleans the glass, and defends multiple frontcourt spots. What separates her is her motor — she doesn't take possessions off. If Walden Grove is going to make noise, it'll be because their senior forward imposes her will and controls the matchup battle down low     Biancuzzo is as steady as they come. A true double-double presence who does the dirty work and produces efficiently. She rebounds at a high rate, finishes around the rim, and doesn't shy away from contact. Underrated in the senior class, but college programs that value toughness and productivity should be paying attention. In a tournament setting, her consistency is a major advantage for Mica Mountain.     Mehlberg is one of the purest shooters in not just 4A but in the state overall. When she gets her feet set, it's usually three points. She moves well without the ball and understands spacing, which makes her difficult to track defensively. But she's more than just a shooter — she competes and makes smart decisions late in games. If she heats up during this postseason run, Mesquite becomes a very tough out.     Hampton is one of the top young prospects in the state, and she plays beyond her years. The sophomore forward brings length, versatility, and leadership to the Nighthawks. She can score facing up, rebound in traffic, and guard multiple positions. For Ironwood Ridge to make real noise, Hampton has to be assertive early and carry that confidence for four quarters. The upside is real.     Abt is a true two-way impact player. She leads Prescott in rebounding and steals, which tells you everything about her activity level. She anticipates, disrupts passing lanes, and finishes strong in transition. As a senior, she understands the moment and plays with urgency. If the Badgers make a deep run, it'll be because Bella controls the glass and sets the defensive tone.

The bracket for the 4A tournament is set, and there are some intriguing matchups. There is a wealth of talent spread throughout the bracket. Here, we look at a few of the key players in the 4A state tournament