Capital Region-Top Large School Performers for 2026-2027

The New York Capital Region is loaded with underclassmen who should be on the radar of every college coach. And in many cases, they already are. Several players saw their stock rise during the sectional, regional, and state playoffs. These players are not only the best in the region, but are among the best in the state. Here is a look at some of the top returning large school performers from the Capital Region for 2026-2027.    [player_tooltip player_id='1276537' first='Malia' last='Jackson'] is a 6-foot-2 center for Shaker who was a News Channel 13 All-Star and the Times Union Player of the Year for large schools. Jackson averaged 16.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, 2.1 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game. Jackson is a powerful player down low with a variety of post moves. She is relentless on the boards and a double-double machine. Jackson's strong suit may be her strength, which makes her very difficult for opponents to defend. She has a soft shooting touch and is a nearly automatic finisher around the basket. Jackson's presence in the paint anchors the Shaker defense.     [player_tooltip player_id='926813' first='Jayla' last='Geter'] was the leader who ran the show and kept Shaker's offense running smoothly this season. A true floor general, Geter dished out four assists a contest for the Blue Bison, but she can also score when needed. She averaged 10.4 points and 1.7 steals per game. Geter is an outstanding perimeter shooter, knocking down 38 3-pointers on the season. Geter's range is unlimited, often knocking down 3-pointers from several feet behind the line. She is an elite ball-handler who can break down defenses and set up teammates for easy buckets. She is especially impressive in transition, where her speed allows her to run away from opponents for easy points. Geter's foot quickness makes her a solid defensive player.     [player_tooltip player_id='1279848' first='Amaya' last='Harris'] is a rising star in the Capital Region. It's hard to fathom that Harris is only a freshman as she plays with skills and a maturity above her years. Harris is an outstanding shooter both from 3-point territory and the midrange. She is a superior ball-handler with a full repertoire of moves to shake loose from defenders. Harris has a fantastic spin move in the lane. She is a physically strong player who can finish through contact. Harris has a size advantage over other point guards, which allows her to overpower defenders and score easily inside. She has superior court vision that makes her an outstanding passer.     [player_tooltip player_id='862022' first='Ella' last='Trimarchi'] averaged 12 points a game this season for Colonie. Trimarchi also hauled down five rebounds and dished out three assists per contest. Trimarchi is known for her high basketball IQ. Simply put, she understands how to play the game. Trimarchi uses a strong first step to navigate around defenders to get to the basket. She is also a very good shooter from beyond the arc and in the midrange. Trimarchi has a very high motor and plays with 100 percent effort at all times. Trimarchi helps her team win in ways that don't always show up in the stat sheet. She is a solid defender and rebounder.     [player_tooltip player_id='968000' first='Kailey' last='Weber'] is an extremely talented sophomore at Shenendehowa who is only getting better as she matures. Weber is a versatile player who can excel from multiple spots on the floor. Weber is a lethal outside shooter with unlimited range. She often knocks down shots near the midcourt logo. Weber can score off the dribble with both the right and left hands. She understands how to move without the ball, which creates easy scoring opportunities in the paint, where she is a consistent finisher. Weber is a savvy defender fueled by her keen anticipation. Her size and length make her outstanding on the boards.     [player_tooltip player_id='1154051' first='Sofia' last='Lanni'] is another member of the very talented junior class at Shaker. Lanni averaged 10.3 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.2 steals, and 1.8 steals per game. Lanni is a multi-faceted player with a full arsenal of skills. She is very good at getting to the basket off the dribble. When the defense is drawn to her, Lanni uses her intelligence and passing ability to make the proper play. Lanni runs the floor well to score in transition. She is a stellar rebounder and defender. The expectation is that Lanni is just scratching the surface and will come back even better next season.

The New York Capital Region is loaded with underclassmen who should be on the radar of every college coach. And in many cases, they already are. Several players saw their stock rise during the sectional, regional, and state playoffs. These players are not only the best in the region, but are among the best in the state. Here is a look at some of the top returning large school performers from the Capital Region for 2026-2027.