Opening Day Standouts at the IHSA Girls State Finals(1A) - Game 2

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The state finals always bring a different environment, and in the 1A class, especially, many of these players are evaluated through livestreams and film throughout the season simply because those programs are often farther from where I'm usually covering. Getting the chance to finally see them live on the biggest stage of the year adds another layer to the evaluation, and day one of the IHSA Girls State Finals did not disappoint. Win or lose, several players made their presence felt when the lights were brightest. </h2>    Dalia has been leading this team all year, especially on the offensive side of the ball, and it shows when the game starts to settle in. Her game is smooth and intentional, and she knows how to get to her spots. As the game moved into the second half, she began to take over. Not just from a scoring standpoint, but in the small moments that start to tilt a game. She was active on the boards, active on the ball, and turned herself into a paint blanket whenever action got near the rim. What makes it even more intriguing is that she is nowhere near her peak and still has a ton of levels to unlock, which is saying a lot. | 31 pts, 10 rebs, 4 blks, 4 stls     The engine behind this Rockford group. Gargani is just as fast with the ball as she is without it, and she matches that speed with vision. On both ends of the floor, this kid made something happen. In the passing lanes, she was active, on ball, she was strong and disciplined. There's no secret to why she's the leader and one of the captains of this program     One of those games where your offensive output isn't needed, simply because you're doing other things that can result in a win. Kate made key rebounds and stops that slowed the other team down in the first half. Players like this move the needle.     Were going to be hearing a ton about Conerly over the next couple of years. She is already showing the confidence of a player who can take and make big shots. However, she knows how to slide into a role and impact the game as a catch and shoot piece.     The new age guard matches Josie's frame. Her wingspan and frame are key to her excelling at playmaking and on the defensive end. She was tasked with guarding the best player on the court, and truly held her own in the first half. If you're a college program looking for a versatile defender, she could be a piece.