First impressions: South Dakota 2028s

It only takes a few minutes of watching a player like Morgan on the floor to reach a confident conclusion: She is a Division 1 prospect. Sheppard is a long, smooth, and highly skilled athlete with clear next-level potential and the scholarship offers to show for it. At 17 points and 9 rebounds per game this winter, she produces across the board while playing with poise and efficiency. Her length is a major weapon, allowing her to elevate over defenders with a high, difficult-to-contest release. Morgan moves with ease, showing athleticism and fluidity in transition and in the half court. She rebounds well, defends multiple positions, and plays with a strong basketball IQ. This all-conference, all-state performer is developing into a complete college prospect.

Scott is a physically gifted guard with the type of size, length, and athleticism that every college coach is looking for seven days a week. At 5'11 with a reported 27-inch vertical, she combines natural tools and feel for the game with a hard-earned skillset that serves her well. Scott handles the ball well, reads the floor effectively, and makes smart decisions from the point. Her quick first step allows her to beat defenders off the bounce, and she finishes well through contact. Jordyn can also stretch the floor with her shooting range. Defensively, she uses her length and mobility to guard multiple positions. As her game continues to develop, Jordyn is putting it all together.

I loved watching Rorie on Sunday at the Hoop City workout. Thoreson is a dynamic scorer and proven shooter who plays with confidence and passion for the game. A three-year varsity starter, she averaged over 18 points per game and has established herself as a true perimeter threat, highlighted by a 34-point game in a win over Tri-Valley with 10 made threes. Her shooting mechanics are excellent – quick, balanced, and repeatable – and her range extends well beyond the arc. Rorie can create her own shot with limited space and plays with poise and composure. She is a passionate defender who uses good instincts to generate steals. A gym rat by reputation, her level of dedication continues to fuel growth in her game.

Goertz is intriguing. She is a versatile, high-energy guard whose game reflects the work she's putting in. Lainey gets downhill in a hurry with excellent north-south speed and the ability to change gears, weaving through traffic to finish with either hand. A strong ball handler, she can create space off the bounce or pull up with control from midrange and beyond. Lainey also shoots it well from three with a quick, smooth release. Defensively, her length is a real asset. She walls up effectively inside and disrupts on the perimeter with anticipation and timing. She plays hard, competes, and impacts the game all over the floor.

Ellie is a member of the top Sanford Sports Academy 2028 squad that got its season off to a great start by going 3-1 at the P24 Clash of the Clubs in Houston last week. She is a rare 6-foot guard who impacts the game in every phase. A key piece of Sioux Falls O'Gorman's state championship squad and All-Metro Conference performer, she brings size, skill, and versatility that are hard to find at her position. Ellie handles the ball with confidence, shoots it with deep range, and scores consistently at all three levels. She has the ability to take over stretches of a game with her offensive skillset. Defensively, her length and athleticism allow her to protect the rim, block shots, and guard multiple positions. She moves well, finishes with either hand, and plays with an aggressive edge. A top-shelf prospect with clear next-level upside, we look forward to watching Ellie live real soon.