Grant's Top Newcomers at the PGH Minnesota Shootout

We're always on the hunt for intriguing newcomers who have the potential to reach college basketball at some point in their future. With four courts, 11 times slots and three scouts in the Shakopee High School gym on Saturday, the odds were good we'd find a few at the Prep Girls Hoops Circuit Minnesota Shootout.   Over the next couple of days Ally McGinnis and Tony Ragulen will weigh in with their new finds. Here are four newcomers – new to me at least – who made their presence known at the Shootout.    LaZella is a physically imposing 6'2 post with a powerful frame and a strong presence in the paint. She rebounds with authority, establishes position early, and finishes effectively around the rim using soft hands and solid footwork. Averaging nearly a dozen points per game thius winter for the Lumberjacks, including a 31-point outing against Little Falls, Karley has proven she can produce. What stands out is her mobility – both end to end and side to side. Primarily a back-to-the-basket player, she also has range, including stepping out to hit a three when we watched. With strength, touch, and improving versatility, LaZella is a reliable interior force. She's also an elite softball player who will have options at the next level.     Eernisse is a great example of a high-upside prospect whose development has been shaped by competing in a powerhouse program at Wayzata where there are nearly 4,000 students chasing excellence. Based on what we saw Saturday, Grace would likely start at more than 250 schools in the state. At 5'11, she brings impressive length, athleticism, and versatility to the wing. Defensively, she used that length to disrupt passing lanes, wall up effectively, and rebound effectively. She moved really well with long strides, ran the floor at pace, and showed the ability to attack gaps off the bounce. Offensively, her shooting mechanics are sound and she can stretch the floor. We loved how vocal and engaged she was. Look for a breakout AAU season.     Walker is an active, confident point guard who brings flair and feel to the position. Quick with the ball and smooth in her movements, Love plays with a calm swagger that stands out immediately for an 8th grader. Her handle is advanced for her age, allowing her to get downhill – especially from the right side – and create scoring opportunities. Walker also showed excellent court vision, delivering accurate long passes in transition and demonstrating a rare ability to make precise post entry passes again and again. She averaged nearly six points and six rebounds per game this winter while leading the Tigers in assists and recording 44 steals. A poised, creative playmaker with real upside, Walker is a prospect we'll be watching.     A product of the Lady Legends program and Harding High School in St. Paul, Gullens wasted no time making an impression on Saturday, stepping up two age levels and looking completely comfortable. Around 5'7 with a basketball build, she combines quick feet, advanced strength for her age, and quality athleticism to impact both ends of the floor. Defensively, Nessa is aggressive and intense, applying pressure early and often. Offensively, she showed the ability to accelerate, create space, and knock down shots with a smooth release. Gullens plays with a tremendous motor and competes with purpose on every possession. A dedicated worker who spends significant time on her game, she has the tools and mindset to continue rising quickly. Look for good things from Gullens and the rest of the Harding youngsters in the years ahead.

We're always on the hunt for intriguing newcomers who have the potential to reach college basketball at some point in their future. With four courts, 11 times slots and three scouts in the Shakopee High School gym on Saturday, the odds were good we'd find a few at the Prep Girls Hoops Circuit Minnesota Shootout.