17U Standouts Make Noise at Grassroots Spring Opener

The AAU season tipped off last weekend in Grand Rapids with the Grassroots Spring Opener, bringing together a strong mix of talent eager to make an early statement. As the first tournament of the spring, it gave players an opportunity to set the tone for the months ahead, and plenty rose to the occasion. From dynamic guards making plays on the perimeter to post players controlling the paint, there was no shortage of standout performances. Here's a look at some of the 17U players who made noise and turned heads to open the AAU season.    Lucy, a post player for [program_tooltip program_id='1226083' first='West' last='Michigan Drive'], continues to impress even while competing up in the 17U division, holding her own and more against older competition. She displays polished footwork in the paint, along with soft hands and a smooth touch that allow her to finish efficiently around the basket. Lucy can also step out and knock down shots from the perimeter, adding another dimension to her game. Defensively, she protects the rim well and moves fluidly for her size, making her a presence on both ends of the floor. She put together a dominant showing at the Grassroots Spring Opener, proving she's a name to keep an eye on this spring and summer.     Addison, a point guard for [program_tooltip program_id='1226083' first='West' last='Michigan Drive'], turned in an impressive performance at the Grassroots Spring Opener, showing a level of composure that stands out for her age. Playing up once again with the top team, she looked comfortable running the show and making smart decisions throughout the day. Addison is a shooter defenses have to respect, as she can knock down shots from deep if left alone, but she's just as effective attacking off the dribble and finishing with control around the rim. On the defensive end, she brought relentless pressure, making things difficult for opposing guards and forcing mistakes. With her all-around game and maturity, she's a player who could see her stock continue to climb this spring and summer.     Harlem, a guard for Michigan Crossover, showcased her explosive game at the Grassroots Spring Opener, using her quickness to blow past defenders and create scoring opportunities with ease. She shot the ball extremely well throughout the event, consistently putting pressure on opposing defenses. Already holding multiple Division I offers, Harlem continues to prove why she's one of the top guards to watch, and it wouldn't be surprising to see that list grow as the spring and summer go on. On the defensive end, she's just as impactful, applying constant pressure and making life difficult for anyone she's matched up with.     Jordynn, a guard for Michigan Crossover, put together a strong performance at the Grassroots Spring Opener, making her presence felt on both ends of the floor. She was disruptive defensively, anticipating passes, getting into passing lanes, and creating problems for opposing guards throughout the day. On the offensive side, she found her rhythm from deep, knocking down multiple shots from beyond the arc. With her two-way impact and confidence, Jordynn looks poised for a big spring and summer on the AAU circuit.     Emory, a guard for [program_tooltip program_id='1226083' first='West' last='Michigan Drive'], is an intriguing prospect to watch as she begins her first AAU season this spring. With her length and athleticism, she brings a versatile skill set that allows her to impact the game in a variety of ways. She's effective attacking the basket, using her strength and stride to get downhill, while also showing the ability to knock down shots from the perimeter. On the defensive end, Emory uses her size to disrupt opponents and guard multiple positions. As she gains more experience on the AAU circuit, there's plenty of excitement around how much her game can grow over the course of the spring and summer.     Emma, a point guard for [program_tooltip program_id='1226083' first='West' last='Michigan Drive'], brings a relentless motor and leadership to the floor, especially on the defensive end where she competes nonstop and makes things difficult for opposing ball handlers. She takes pride in that side of the game, applying constant pressure and setting the tone with her effort. Offensively, Emma does a great job running the team, keeping things organized and getting her teammates in the right spots, while also being able to attack the lane when opportunities open up. With this being her final AAU season, it will be exciting to see how she continues to make an impact this spring and summer.

The AAU season tipped off last weekend in Grand Rapids with the Grassroots Spring Opener, bringing together a strong mix of talent eager to make an early statement. As the first tournament of the spring, it gave players an opportunity to set the tone for the months ahead, and plenty rose to the occasion. From dynamic guards making plays on the perimeter to post players controlling the paint, there was no shortage of standout performances. Here's a look at some of the 17U players who made noise and turned heads to open the AAU season.