Game Changers: Impact Juniors to Watch

Junior year is often where potential turns into production, and this season, a number of players are making that leap in a big way. “Game Changers: Impact Juniors to Watch” highlights the athletes who are no longer just promising prospects—they're proven difference-makers. With experience under their belts and confidence in their roles, these juniors are stepping into leadership positions, elevating their teams on both ends of the floor. Whether it's scoring in key moments, locking down defensively, or setting the tone with energy and effort, they are influencing the outcome of games night after night. As the stakes rise and the postseason approaches, these impact juniors are showing they're ready to take center stage.    Alexis, a junior post player for West Catholic, is putting together a standout season and playing a major role in her team's 12–4 record. A versatile presence in the paint, she's comfortable playing with her back to the basket, using strong footwork and touch to finish around the rim with either hand. She can also face up, put the ball on the floor, and drive and kick to open teammates, making her a tough matchup for opposing defenses. On the defensive end, Alexis anchors the lane as a reliable rim protector and rebounds the ball at a high level, consistently giving her team extra possessions. Her all-around skill set and impact on both ends have made her a key force for West Catholic this season.     Dy'Nasti, a junior post player for Muskegon, has carved out a vital role on a talented squad that sits at 12–2 this season. Surrounded by strong guard play, she has found her place as the anchor in the middle, doing all the little things that don't always show up in the spotlight but make a huge difference in winning. She controls the paint as the ultimate shot blocker, protecting the rim and altering opponents' shots, while also rebounding at a high level on both ends. Much of her scoring comes from relentless work on the offensive glass, converting tough put-backs and second-chance opportunities. With her presence inside and Muskegon's overall balance, it will be exciting to see what Dy'Nasti and her team can accomplish this postseason.     Reese, a junior guard for Grass Lake, has been a driving force behind her team's impressive 16–1 record this season. A long, athletic playmaker, she attacks the rim with confidence and finishes through contact, showing exceptional body control as she navigates traffic in the lane. Her offensive versatility keeps defenses guessing, as she can just as easily step back and knock down shots from well beyond the arc. On the defensive end, Reese uses her length to disrupt passing lanes and create turnovers, turning defense into quick offense. She also rebounds at a high rate for a guard, proving her impact extends far beyond scoring and making her a key reason for Grass Lake's dominant run.     Leigha, a junior post player for Portland, has been a key piece in her team's strong 12–3 season. A versatile presence in the frontcourt, she has the ability to stretch the defense by stepping out and knocking down shots from deep, forcing opposing posts to guard her well beyond the paint. Inside, she's just as effective, posting up with strength and touch while finishing confidently with either hand around the rim. Leigha rebounds at a high rate, giving her team valuable extra possessions, and she protects the paint with timely blocks on the defensive end. With her high basketball IQ and well-rounded skill set, she consistently makes smart plays that impact winning in multiple ways.     Elli, a junior post player for Cedar Springs, has been a major force in her team's 11–4 season, anchoring the paint with toughness and consistency. She's a rebounding machine, relentlessly attacking the glass and giving her team countless extra possessions on both ends of the floor. Her presence inside doesn't stop there—she protects the rim with well-timed blocks and alters shots with her physicality and awareness. Offensively, Elli finishes strong around the rim with both hands, making her a reliable scoring option in close. Her work ethic and impact in the paint continue to be key factors in Cedar Springs' success this season.     Marissa, a junior point guard for Wayland, has helped lead her team to a strong 10–3 start this season with her speed and all-around impact. A super quick guard, she can get downhill in a hurry, blowing past defenders and putting constant pressure on the paint. She's also a threat from beyond the arc, capable of knocking down the three-ball and keeping defenses honest. On the defensive end, Marissa brings relentless intensity, using her quickness, active hands, and sharp instincts to force turnovers and disrupt opposing offenses. Her energy and leadership at the point have been key ingredients in Wayland's success so far this season.

Junior year is often where potential turns into production, and this season, a number of players are making that leap in a big way. “Game Changers: Impact Juniors to Watch” highlights the athletes who are no longer just promising prospects—they're proven difference-makers. With experience under their belts and confidence in their roles, these juniors are stepping into leadership positions, elevating their teams on both ends of the floor. Whether it's scoring in key moments, locking down defensively, or setting the tone with energy and effort, they are influencing the outcome of games night after night. As the stakes rise and the postseason approaches, these impact juniors are showing they're ready to take center stage.