Private School Players Catching Public Attention in the 757

The Hampton Roads region is home to 47 public high schools. Meaning on any given night there is an opportunity to catch high-level girls basketball. As previously mentioned, the level of talent across the public school landscape continues to prove why the 757 remains firmly on the scouting map.   Recently, I had the privilege of watching a few local private school programs. My observation is that the level of play was equally impressive. The talent, and competition proved that elite basketball in Hampton Roads is not confined to one system or classification. Across both public and private programs, the region continues to produce athletes who compete, develop, and elevate the overall standard of girls basketball nightly.   Out of the 60 athletes I watched hone their craft on the hardwood, several performances stood out to me and deserve recognition.    A 24-point performance against crosstown rival Norfolk Christian capped by four made three-pointers. A performance that reinforced Riley's status as a next-level scorer. Whether striking from beyond the arc. Shooting off screens. Creating off the dribble, or attacking the lane with well-timed cuts, Riley presents constant problems for opposing defenses. Simply put, when the ball is in Riley's hands, defenses have their hands full.      Dyson, finished with 18 in the loss to Catholic. Yet her consistent play went beyond scoring. A play maker, facilitator and tough defender. A skilled ball handler, athletic enough to get to the basket in traffic. Strong enough to finish through contact, and agile enough to defend the perimeter. Dyson is clearly the floor general, and emotional engine of her team.     A disruptor, plain and simple. Ross uses her speed and anticipation to contest passes ,and ignite transition opportunities going the other way. Scoring 10 points in the win over Norfolk, Ross also showcased her next-level passing ability. Consistently setting teammates up on the wing, in transition, and in the post for quality scoring opportunities. A true point guard. Ross keeps scorers involved and in rhythm while also contributing offensively with reliable shooting range when needed.     At 6'9", Ruop commands immediate attention on the court. Beyond her size, she possesses a smooth offensive game around the basket and finishes effectively with either hand. Strong enough to hold position on the block, she battles well on the glass and is not easily moved when securing rebounds. Defensively, her presence alone makes opposing teams hesitant to attack the lane. A natural shot blocker. Ruop uses her length to contest shots at the rim while showing the foot speed to step out and challenge on the perimeter.     Benn scores at an impressive pace, averaging 20 points per game. Long, lean, and athletic, she thrives as a slasher, getting downhill to the basket and finishing effectively with either hand. While developing a more consistent shot from 15 feet and beyond will elevate her offensive arsenal. The tools are clearly present for Benn to grow into a next-level player.       Heckstall possesses the ball-handling and passing ability of a much smaller guard, combined with the footwork and interior presence of a forward. Displaying a soft touch as a passer, she has the ability to take over and run the offense when needed. Her post footwork stands out, highlighted by her ability to establish position, play with her back to the basket, and score effectively in the paint.

The Hampton Roads region is home to 47 public high schools. Meaning on any given night there is an opportunity to catch high-level girls basketball. As previously mentioned, the level of talent across the public school landscape continues to prove why the 757 remains firmly on the scouting map.