Breakout Player of the Year: Mallory McBeth

Some players are known for their scoring, putting up gaudy point totals, rewriting the record books, garnering all sorts of attention. Others do the hard work of defending, taking on tough assignments, keeping opposing stars in check. Their work is less glamorous but just as – if not more – important. And then there are players like [player_tooltip player_id='948888' first='Mallory' last='McBeth'] of Wayzata, versatile competitors who form the backbone of every successful team and do so many of the little things that win basketball games. This year, the Top 20 sophomore did it all for the Trojans and did it better than ever, morphing from an important rotation contributor to a vital cog in the Wayzata wheel. For her efforts, we are pleased to select Mallory as our Prep Girls Hoops Breakout Player of the Year.   From the very beginning our expectations have been high for McBeth because she has all of the God-given tools that can carry a player to the next level. She's athletic and strong but has also put in the work required to develop her skillset to an elite level. The 5'10 guard became a key piece for a 22–6 Wayzata team that advanced to the section finals, consistently delivering when it mattered most. Averaging 12.1 points per game, McBeth showcased a versatile, efficient offensive game highlighted by her ability to shoot from deep – both in catch-and-shoot situations and off the bounce – while also finishing with either hand at the rim.   Ranked #17 in the Class of 2028, what separates McBeth is her composure and maturity. She plays under control at all times, never forcing shots and not getting sped up. Her footwork, decision-making, and ability to read the game allow her to impact winning in subtle but consistent ways. A high-level athlete with deceptive quickness, she can create space, knock down midrange pull-ups, and attack gaps when needed. Defensively, she competes with effort and awareness, bringing the energy and effectiveness game after game. An All-Conference selection in the mighty Lake, and an All-State honorable mention by the high school coaches, McBeth does a little bit of everything and does it well. Most importantly for the long term, everything Mallory does will translate to the next level. We can't wait to see what's next.   HONORABLE MENTIONS   [player_tooltip player_id='786398' first='Zaida' last='Jenkins'] – 2028 guard, Benilde-St. Margaret's   Jenkins has steadily climbed the ladder at Benilde-St. Margaret's, but this season marked her true breakout. On a loaded roster, she evolved into a go-to option, highlighted by an outstanding State Tournament performance. Averaging 12.5 points per game, Jenkins showed she can score in bunches while impacting the game defensively with her athleticism and anticipation. Zaida's quick first step and elusiveness on the run enable her to get to the basket or step back and bury three-pointers. Her high motor and exceptional anticipation spark turnovers that fuel transition offense.  Jenkins is a dynamic, high-energy competitor whose improvement this year has been palpable.   [player_tooltip player_id='897889' first='Madilynn' last='Bell'] – 2028 forward, Lakeville North   Bell's rise over the past year has been one of the most significant in the 2028 class. Once a relatively under-the-radar prospect, the 6'3 forward has surged up the rankings over the past year from #59 all the way up to #20, emerging as a clear Division I prospect in the process. Averaging 10 points per game, Bell has expanded her game well beyond the paint, showing the ability to run the floor, control space inside, and step out to knock down perimeter shots. Her improved strength and confidence have made her a much more imposing presence on both ends of the floor. Defensively, her length is a major asset. With an ever-growing skill set, Bell has firmly established herself on the D1 recruiting radar.   [player_tooltip player_id='1233136' first='Korbin' last='Tanner'] – 2029 forward, New London-Spicer   Tanner made the leap this season from promising young prospect to consistent impact player. The 6'2 forward averaged 15.7 points and 7.8 rebounds, earning All-Tournament honors at State while establishing herself as a Top 15 prospect in the 2029 class. Her improvement has been evident in every phase – she's more mobile, runs the floor better, and has developed stronger footwork in the paint. Tanner now finishes efficiently with either hand, rebounds with authority and uses her size to physically control her opponents. She's also expanded her range and can push the pace in transition. With continued growth, Tanner is trending up, up, up.   [player_tooltip player_id='1095939' first='Raegan' last='Kelm'] – 2029 guard, Byron   Kelm followed an impressive 8th-grade varsity season last year with a true breakout freshman campaign in 2025-26. Averaging 12.3 points per game, Raegan emerged as more than just a contributor, becoming a consistent and reliable performer in all aspects of the game. Kelm's defensive presence stands out. She is a relentless on-ball defender with quick feet, active hands, and strong instincts that disrupt opposing offenses. Offensively, she plays with poise, never gets sped up, and can score from multiple areas. Her combination of athleticism, toughness, and confidence makes her a Top 10 prospect in the Class of 2029.   [player_tooltip player_id='1244229' first='Lucy' last='Hilgert'] – 2029 guard, Chanhassen   Hilgert's emergence has been a key factor in Chanhassen's rise, culminating in the program's first Class 4A State Tournament appearance this month. Despite being the youngest player in an experienced starting five, the Top 25 freshman played with remarkable poise and consistency, averaging 15.1 points per game. A polished perimeter shooter, Hilgert excels with her off-ball movement and readiness to fire, consistently knocking down big shots. Her confidence and maturity stood out on the biggest stage, where she remained composed and effective. Hilgert is also a quality defensive contributor whose steady improvement and reliability have quickly made her one of the more dependable young guards in the state.

Some players are known for their scoring, putting up gaudy point totals, rewriting the record books, garnering all sorts of attention. Others do the hard work of defending, taking on tough assignments, keeping opposing stars in check. Their work is less glamorous but just as – if not more – important. And then there are players like Mallory McBeth Mallory McBeth 5'10" | SG/SF Wayzata | 2028 State MN of Wayzata, versatile competitors who form the backbone of every successful team and do so many of the little things that win basketball games. This year, the Top 20 sophomore did it all for the Trojans and did it better than ever, morphing from an important rotation contributor to a vital cog in the Wayzata wheel. For her efforts, we are pleased to select Mallory as our Prep Girls Hoops Breakout Player of the Year.