Next Up in the 757 Class of 2027 Players to Know

Signing Day has passed, senior nights are underway, and the playoffs sit just over the horizon. For seniors across the 757, the countdown has quietly begun. The inevitable realization that one final game in a high school uniform draws closer with every tip-off.   It's an emotional time for the Class of 2026. A group that deserves to be celebrated for every single on court accomplishment. Yet as the spotlight shines on their final chapter, the future of Hampton Roads basketball is already beginning to take shape.   While we honor the seniors, it's time to take a respectful look forward. Toward the next wave ready to carry the region. The rising leaders. The next standard-bearers. The Class of 2027. With that in mind, here are several Class of 2027 prospects worth keeping an eye on as the future of Hampton Roads basketball continues to emerge.    Jones possesses the ability to take over a game offensively while still operating seamlessly within the structure of her team's system. While her scoring often draws the headlines. Her defensive impact is an area that can sometimes be overlooked. That is an oversight that shouldn't continue.   In a recent matchup against Norfolk Christian, Catholic faced the challenge of containing 6'9" Abuna Ruop. The answer came in the form of Jones. A second-half adjustment placed her on Ruop, and the impact was immediate. Using a combination of technique, physical strength, positioning, and relentless effort. Jones held Ruop to just four second-half points while significantly limiting her presence on the glass.   It served as a reminder that while Jones can seemingly score at will, her defensive versatility and commitment may be just as valuable to her team's success.     Having recently surpassed the 1,000-point milestone, Dyson has developed into a complete player for the Ambassadors. The strong combo guard has the ability to control the tempo from the point guard position or shift seamlessly off the ball and attack the basket. Physically strong enough to battle in the post and quick enough to defend on the perimeter, Dyson's versatility makes her a match up problem on both ends of the floor.     An incredibly intelligent player with a high basketball IQ and no fear. Manning thrives by playing the game from the neck up. She utilizes impressive court vision to make difficult reads and delivers sharp passes, while also possessing the range to consistently knock down the three. Excellent without the ball, Manning moves well within the offense to create open opportunities and generate scoring chances off movement. Defensively, she brings toughness and isn't afraid to get physical in the post when needed to help her team.     Evans is a menace! Plain and simple. Lightning quick and silky smooth, she has the ability to change the game with a single swipe, turning defense into transition opportunities where she can either distribute or finish at the rim. In the half-court, Evans is a three-level scorer capable of impacting the game from anywhere on the floor. What stands out most, however, is her motor. She never stops moving, applying relentless pressure and constantly creating problems for opposing backcourts.    If there was any doubt about the future of Hampton Roads girls basketball, this group has erased it. The talent runs deep, and we have only begun to scratch the surface of what this upcoming senior class is capable of accomplishing on the court.

Signing Day has passed, senior nights are underway, and the playoffs sit just over the horizon. For seniors across the 757, the countdown has quietly begun. The inevitable realization that one final game in a high school uniform draws closer with every tip-off.