First impressions: South Dakota 2027s
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This week I've begun my look at South Dakota prospects in earnest, reviewing game notes, watching highlights, viewing game segments and digging for information about the college prospects in these parts. Since I'm now residing in Sioux Falls, and traveling to Minnesota AAU events most weekends, it's only logical to begin with the prospects in the Eastern part of the state. We'll be heading to see West River talent in June. So far this week we've covered some intriguing 2028s and 2029s. Today we're digging into the incoming seniors in the Class of 2027.
The only team I've watched live so far is Sanford 17U White at the Midwest Kickoff Classic a couple of weeks ago so that's our primary focus today. I realize that none of these names are unfamiliar to those who follow South Dakota girls basketball. These players have been instrumental for their high school teams and have had a great deal of success. But they are new to me. And since Prep Girls Hoops Dakotas has largely been without coverage of South Dakota over the past year – that's why I'm here now! – it's important that we remind college coaches who these prospects are, what they can do and offer relevant information to help them gain prominence in current recruiting conversations.
Here are five 2027s I've liked so far.
The 6'2 forward from Sioux Falls Christian is a highly rated prospect with a ton of upside. An All-State selection who averaged 18 points and 9 rebounds per game on nearly 50% shooting, Young-Setzer combines length, athleticism, and a skillset that continues to expand. She's long, lean, and bouncy, with the ability to elevate impressively over defenders at the rim. Defensively, her instincts and wingspan make her a strong shot blocker and frequent disruptor. She moves well laterally, handles the ball comfortably, and shows patience in her approach. With good shooting form and natural quickness, Lezlei offers up a versatile two-way game. There's no telling just how good she can be at the next level.
Highlights
Lems is a 6'0 guard/forward from Sioux Falls Christian who brings length, versatility, and a strong feel for the game. Playing with Sanford's 17U White squad, she uses her size effectively on defense and the glass, competing with intensity and purpose. She moves smoothly, runs the floor well, and is especially effective in transition where her speed and body control stand out. Offensively, she's a skilled scorer who attacks the basket with confidence and finishes well around the rim. A quality passer and communicator, Lems plays with intelligence and energy, consistently making the right plays and impacting the game in multiple ways.
Highlights
Now with the Minnesota Fury S40 squad in the Twin Cities – a team that has a half-dozen scholarship candidates – the 5'11 forward from Brandon Valley possesses a well-rounded game and produces results for her team across the board. Geiver is an aggressive, competitive presence who wants the ball and makes things happen when she has it. She can score at all three levels, including as a consistent threat from beyond the arc with solid mechanics that get the job done. Her court vision and understanding of spacing allow her to make smart decisions, while defensively she anticipates well and stays active. London plays with purpose on both ends, bringing a balanced skill set and a mindset that should yield continued growth.
Highlights
The 5'6 combo guard from Sioux Valley is a steady, high-IQ playmaker who impacts the game in a variety of ways. Trygstad has a strong build and plays with toughness, consistently making hustle plays and doing the little things that truly matter. She's a smooth three-point shooter with a soft, controlled release and is equally effective creating for others, firing sharp one-handed passes with pace and precision. A quality ball handler, she plays fast without getting sped up and shows excellent decision-making. Defensively, she brings intensity and awareness. Trygstad's unselfish style and feel for the game make her a valuable piece.
Highlights
Reitsma, a 5'10 combo guard from Sioux Falls Christian, is a top-25 prospect who offers toughness, skill, and consistent energy. Strongly built and scrappy, she's not afraid to hit the floor for loose balls and string together a series of hustle plays. Offensively, she's a high-level shooter, especially in catch-and-shoot situations where her release is quick and smooth. She also shows touch in the mid-range and can finish with either hand around the rim, even in traffic. Reitsma battles inside, plays with excellent body control, and brings a high motor every possession. A reliable, physical guard who produces in multiple ways, look for more from MaKinli in the months to come.
