Paint Protectors: Top Upperclassmen Shot Blockers in Kentucky

When it comes to winning basketball games, scoring usually gets the headlines, but protecting the paint can be just as important. The best interior defenders can change an opponent's game simply by being on the floor. They erase shots, alter decisions and make drivers think twice before attacking the basket.   This group features some of the top upperclassmen across the Bluegrass to watch next season who bring legitimate shot-blocking ability, size, length and athleticism to the defensive end.   [player_tooltip player_id='736963' first='Jozie' last='Allen']   Allen is a physical presence in the paint who understands how to use her size and positioning. She doesn't have to chase every block; she does a good job of being in the right place and making opponents uncomfortable around the rim. Her experience and toughness make her a difficult matchup inside.    Wardlow brings a strong interior presence and the ability to challenge shots around the basket. She plays with length and isn't afraid to protect the rim. Her combination of strength and timing makes her one of the players opponents have to account for when attacking the paint.    [player_tooltip player_id='913405' first='Sarah' last='Thompson']   Thompson is another veteran paint protector who brings experience and instincts to the defensive end. She has the ability to read drives, get into position and challenge shots without giving up easy opportunities. Her presence gives Monroe County another layer of toughness defensively.   [player_tooltip player_id='1250599' first='Averi' last='Fugate']   Fugate is a senior who provides South Warren with a legitimate defensive presence around the basket. She uses her size and timing to make the paint a difficult place to operate. Her ability to challenge shots can completely change the way an opponent attacks.   Neveah Dixon    Dixon's size and athletic ability immediately stand out. She has the jumping ability to go get a shot at its highest point, and she can be a real problem for guards who think they have an open lane. With another year of development, her shot-blocking ability could become an even bigger part of her game.     Melvin brings a similar combination of size and athleticism. She has the ability to get off the floor quickly and challenge shots that many defenders simply can't reach. She is still developing her game, but her physical tools give her the tools to be a defensive force.        [player_tooltip player_id='913673' first='Sophia' last='Newby']   Newby is an intriguing defensive talent because she can affect shots in more than one way. She has the length and timing to challenge attempts at the rim while also having the mobility to defend away from the basket. That versatility makes her especially valuable on the defensive end.   [player_tooltip player_id='963038' first='Hannah' last='Smith']   Smith is another player who deserves recognition among the state's paint protectors. She brings the kind of defensive toughness and timing that can make a difference around the basket. Her ability to challenge shots adds another dimension to anchor her team's defense.   [player_tooltip player_id='747655' first='Mariella' last='Claybrook']   It almost feels unnecessary to introduce Claybrook at this point. She has already established herself as maybe the best premier interior defenders in the state. Her combination of size, timing, length and instincts separates her from the rest.   Claybrook doesn't simply block shots, she changes what opponents are willing to attempt. Her defensive presence can influence an entire possession before the ball ever reaches the paint.    The next name that immediately comes to mind is Corbin's Clemons. She is one of the area's best natural shot blockers and has the athletic ability to make plays above the rim. Her timing and instincts allow her to erase shots that look like easy scoring opportunities.        [player_tooltip player_id='963027' first='McKaila' last='Monroe']   Monroe brings length and athleticism to the defensive end and has the ability to make an impact as a rim protector. She can cover ground quickly and challenge shots around the basket, making her another player opposing offenses have to respect.   [player_tooltip player_id='590302' first='Kylie' last='Kinner']   Kinner is an interesting addition because she brings shot-blocking ability from a different position. As a long guard, she has the reach and quickness to come from the perimeter and make plays defensively. She can surprise ballhandlers who think they have a clean look simply because they have beaten their initial defender.   [player_tooltip player_id='1590841' first='Sarah' last='Young']   Young rounds out the list with another strong defensive presence. She has the size, timing and competitiveness to challenge shots and make life difficult for opponents around the basket. Her ability to protect the paint gives Notre Dame an important defensive weapon.

When it comes to winning basketball games, scoring usually gets the headlines, but protecting the paint can be just as important. The best interior defenders can change an opponent's game simply by being on the floor. They erase shots, alter decisions and make drivers think twice before attacking the basket.