7 Potential Difference Makers in the Region Finals (1A-7A)

We've reached the Elite 8 across all classifications (1A–7A), and every team left is just one win away from a state tournament appearance. At this point, there are no easy matchups — top seeds are still standing across the board, set to battle hungry 2- and 3-seeds, with Bartram Trail as the lone 6-seed still alive. The margin for error is razor thin, and these games will come down to toughness, adjustments, and execution in winning time. Often, it's not the headliner but the player who elevates beyond their typical role that swings a region final. Here are seven potential difference makers, one in each classification, who could be the reason their team punches a ticket to the state tournament:   7A    Winter Haven handled Sumner comfortably back in December, but this matchup looks different without leading scorer Hardy in the lineup. Sumner brings size, so Victoria's length and physical presence will be key in controlling the boards and protecting the paint. She stepped up in a major way in the regional semifinal with 13 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 blocks, showing she can impact the game on both ends. If Victoria plays smart, physical, and anchors the interior, Winter Haven has a strong shot at returning to the state tournament.    6A    This is one of the most anticipated postseason rematches of the year after Nova edged St. Thomas Aquinas by four in late January. Both squads are battle-tested and ranked among the top ten teams in the state regardless of classification, and this time STA will have home-court advantage. Laila didn't have her best outing in the first matchup, but she's playing with more confidence now and has the ability to swing this game with timely buckets, key rebounds, or disruptive steals. She's coming off a strong region semifinal performance with 15 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 steals in the win over Mater Academy — and another all-around impact game could be the difference in punching their ticket to state.    5A    St. Pete has beaten Clearwater twice already in two highly competitive matchups — and everyone knows how tough it is to beat the same team three times in one season. Caidyn has been a consistent and efficient secondary scoring option for the Green Devils, and they'll need the freshman to rise to the moment under the brightest lights she's faced so far, especially on her home floor. If she can limit turnovers, make smart reads, and continue shooting at an efficient clip against a solid Tornado backcourt, St. Pete has a strong chance to punch its ticket to Jacksonville and the state Final Four.    4A    Eustis isn't known for its size, which makes this a matchup Bishop Moore should look to control physically. Lillian and the Hornets will need to assert that advantage by owning the glass and using their length to make life difficult in the paint. Bishop Moore hasn't truly been tested this month, but I still expect Lillian to set the tone early with physical interior play and toughness. If she can knock down timely shots, bring energy, and elevate her teammates, that presence could be a major factor in their success.    3A    This is another highly anticipated matchup, with two top-ten teams in the state regardless of class meeting in Orlando. Lake Highland Prep will host Tampa Catholic and LHP brings a slightly deeper, more balanced roster, meaning one player may need to step up in the moment. Saleigh has the versatility, athleticism, and physicality to be that difference maker. In LHP's region semifinal win over Cardinal Mooney, she contributed 12 efficient points, 8 rebounds, and 2 blocks, showing she can impact the game on both ends.    2A    Holy Trinity will host 24-3 John Carroll Catholic, but HT has played a tougher schedule to prepare for this matchup. The Tigers are led by their backcourt, while John Carroll has a capable frontcourt, making Lorena's size a key factor in the region final. She'll need to be physical inside, control the paint, and support her versatile guards to make a difference and help HT punch their ticket to the state tournament.    1A    In a clash between the top two teams in 1A — and both ranked in the top 25 statewide — Grandview Prep has the skill and firepower to take on a scrappy, smart Schoolhouse Prep team while defending last year's title. With Schoolhouse returning their best player, Grandview will need an extra spark, and Jada has the poise and maturity as a freshman to provide it. To be the difference maker, she'll need to stay composed, grab timely rebounds, knock down open looks, and bring consistent energy, effort, and hustle to help the Pride prevail.

We've reached the Elite 8 across all classifications (1A–7A), and every team left is just one win away from a state tournament appearance. At this point, there are no easy matchups — top seeds are still standing across the board, set to battle hungry 2- and 3-seeds, with Bartram Trail as the lone 6-seed still alive. The margin for error is razor thin, and these games will come down to toughness, adjustments, and execution in winning time. Often, it's not the headliner but the player who elevates beyond their typical role that swings a region final. Here are seven potential difference makers, one in each classification, who could be the reason their team punches a ticket to the state tournament: