2027's Who's Rankings Rose - Elevated Guard Play

With the latest rankings update, several players in the junior class stood out for the strides they made this season. Their development on the floor didn't just elevate their teams—it also raised their profiles as college prospects. Through improved skill sets, increased production, and a greater impact in key moments, these players showed the kind of growth that expands their potential at the next level.    Kloey began the season well outside our radar, but by the end of the year, she had become a player every opposing coach had to game plan around when facing Green Canyon. Her speed immediately stands out—she's one of the quickest players in her class—and she pairs that quickness with the ability to score while also being disruptive on the defensive end.   As the season progressed, her impact became impossible to ignore, making her one of the biggest risers in this set of rankings. Kloey has emerged as a bit of a dark horse prospect, and programs looking for a player who can bring pace, defensive pressure, and scoring ability would be wise to keep a close eye on her development.     Keiarra has been the do-it-all disruptor for Whitehorse this season, impacting the game in nearly every phase. While her squad didn't make it to the final stage of the tournament, her influence on the floor was clear all year. Her ability to get downhill, attack the rim, and pressure defenses made her the driving force behind much of Whitehorse's offense.   That same aggressive style and versatility should translate well as she heads into the summer with NLB, where she'll have the chance to measure her game against players from a variety of classifications and continue proving how her skill set stacks up at a broader level.     One of the biggest reasons Bingham finished the season hoisting the trophy was the play of Evy. As the year progressed, her ability to create and recognize space became increasingly effective, allowing her to consistently find scoring opportunities when her team needed them most.   She's a dangerous shooter from beyond the arc, with a percentage that makes defenses pay if they give her even a small window. What makes her even more valuable is her ability to shift gears—going from spotting up at distance to crashing the boards and closing space quickly to secure rebounds. That combination of perimeter shooting and hustle on the glass made Evy a crucial piece of Bingham's championship run.     Malia exceeded expectations this season. When we first saw her in the fall, it was clear she could be a factor for her team, but what really stood out as the year progressed was her ability to move the ball and create opportunities for others.   She showed a strong feel for the game, consistently finding ways to get the ball downhill—whether attacking herself or setting up a teammate in the right spot. That ability to initiate offense and keep the ball moving made her an important playmaker and a player who impacted the flow of the game.     [player_tooltip player_id='827408' first='Kate' last='Willard'] proved difficult for opponents to contain this season because of her versatility and presence on the glass. She consistently impacted games in multiple ways, using her strength and skill set to compete against both posts and guards.   Her ability to rebound, battle inside, and still make plays within the flow of the offense made her a matchup problem for many teams. Kate's physical style of play and well-rounded game allowed her to control possessions and create opportunities, showing why she's such a valuable piece on the floor.    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Others Worth Noting</h2>   [player_tooltip player_id='1325129' first='Mariah' last='McCain'] - With more time on the JV floor, Mariah grew in confidence and skill. She'll be a big key piece for CH going into her senior season.   [player_tooltip player_id='796479' first='Avery' last='Thompson'] - another great year from Avery, showing she hasn't reached her peak yet. Driving force for Westlake.   [player_tooltip player_id='796469' first='Veanna' last='Pau'u'] - Bingham - By the end of the season, she learned how to set strong, legal screens while holding her ground without picking up unnecessary fouls. That adjustment proved to be a game-changer for her role on the floor.   [player_tooltip player_id='1051328' first='Jalise' last='Chatman'] - She was the firecracker for AF throughout the season. One more year to be the impact duo, with [player_tooltip player_id='1240502' first='Morgan' last='Felix'], in making the Cavemen stay a contender.   [player_tooltip player_id='796499' first='Janiece' last='Sikander'] - Pleasant Grove - Proves that height doesn't have to be a factor. Can get the ball in the hoop regardless of the height of the opponent.   [player_tooltip player_id='1119388' first='Liv' last='McKay'] - Sky View   [player_tooltip player_id='825057' first='AJ' last='VanDyke'] - Wayne

With the latest rankings update, several players in the junior class stood out for the strides they made this season. Their development on the floor didn't just elevate their teams—it also raised their profiles as college prospects. Through improved skill sets, increased production, and a greater impact in key moments, these players showed the kind of growth that expands their potential at the next level.