2027 Rankings Update: Meet the newcomers

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Earlier this week we released the latest of our rankings updates, this time for the class of 2027. So far we've looked at some of the unsigned seniors and recent commits who have been moving up, as well as the rest of the stock risers. Now it's time to talk about the newcomers.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Ranked for the first time back in the fall of 2023, this group is now entering their final season of high school competition. What was initially a list of the top 50 young prospects has now grown to 200 college-level players from across the state. So far 75 players and counting have announced where they're headed to play at the next level, with 17 of those players headed to Division 1. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Here is a look at the 14 latest additions.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1856115"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae506e7a02fc"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Hailing from Kerkhoven-Murdock-Sunburg in the west-central part of the state, Wagner is a true point guard with a quick first step. Leading the way for the Fighting Saints last winter, Leah averaged a staggering 20.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 6.2 steals in her junior season. A non-stop workhorse on both ends of the floor, Wagner enters the rankings at #187.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["764193"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae506e7a0335"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Standing at 5'10 with a powerful frame, Horner has been making an impact in Edina's frontcourt for multiple seasons now. A recent commit to Division 3 St. Olaf in Northfield, the Hornets senior excels at finishing through contact on the drives and shines as a rebounder. She comes in at #188.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["999553"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae506e7a035b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Playing a key role in NRHEG's varsity rotation last winter, Buendorf averaged 8.5 points per game in her junior season. This year she'll bring leadership, experience, and a significant amount of hustle to the Panthers lineup. Committed to play for Bethany Lutheran next year, the 5'9 shooting guard now joins the rankings conversation at #189.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["764177"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae506e7a037b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A varsity starter last season at Totino-Grace, Saylor made significant contributions during the team's run to the State Tournament. A skilled shooter and playmaker, Amelia went on to have a strong summer with the [program_tooltip program_id='712665' first='Metro' last='Stars'] 2027 Black squad. The 5'10 shooting guard now enters the rankings at #190.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1267990"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae506e7a039b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">The second-leading scorer for Duluth East last season, Witzman adds a wealth of experience to the Greyhounds roster. Piper's playmaking, perimeter shooting, and ability to give 100 percent until the clock runs out are all hallmarks of her game. The Northern Light guard comes in at #191.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["975062"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae506e7a03b8"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">After playing a pivotal role in Centennial's varsity rotation last season, Karkoska-Wosmek went on to have a strong summer with the [program_tooltip program_id='712689' first='Minnesota' last='Heat']. Despite her AAU season ending early due to injury, the 5'10 forward is going to be an important piece for the Cougars again this winter. She joins the rankings at #192.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["889629"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae506e7a03d4"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A long-time member of [program_tooltip program_id='712352' first='Air' last='Minnesota']'s 2027 team, Livingston shined as a transition scorer and catch-and-shoot three-point threat this past summer. Now entering her senior season at Northfield, the 5'7 guard is looking to take on a bigger role with the Raiders. Sydney now enters the rankings conversation at #193 in the class.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["764187"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae506e7a03f4"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A well-rounded and fundamentally sound wing, Gardiner is expected to play a key role in Prior Lake's supporting cast this season. Charley fills that role by spacing the floor, creating movement away from the ball, and being a reliable contributor on the defensive end. Also a skilled outside shooter for the Lakers, Gardiner comes in at #194.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["773996"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae506e7a0411"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Bringing plenty of speed to the point guard position, Holt's ability to get to the rim, make impact plays on defense, and take care of the ball with smart passes are some strongest components of her game. After a solid summer with Diamond Elite, Aneciya (pictured in the banner photo above) will look to expand her role with the Spartans this winter. She slots in at #195.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["939160"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae506e7a042e"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Averaging 10 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists per game as a junior, Hedrick is no stranger to playing a leading role. A tough, lockdown defender, vocal leader on both ends of the floor, and consistent perimeter threat, Scarlett is expected to be just as important for the Tigers in her senior season. The 5'9 guard come into the rankings at #196.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1917827"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae506e7a044d"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Petro may not have crossed our radar until last month at the PGH Expo, but there is so much to like about her game. She's smooth with the ball, can score from anywhere on the court, and plays with tremendous discipline on the defensive end. Her versatility and calm demeanor will be key attributes for Robbinsdale Armstrong this season. She comes in at #197.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["886946"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae506e7a046a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Small, but mighty, Quinnell left a distinct impression on our scouts at The Expo in September. The 5'4 point guard is a scrappy, high-energy presence on defense whose greatest attribute is her speed and quick hands. On offense, McKenna stays ready to shoot at all times and can knock open looks down at a high clip. The Northfield senior enters the rankings at #198.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["764217"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae506e7a0485"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A consistent contributor for Duluth Marshall throughout her high school career, Lucero has gotten plenty of visibility over the years. Last season we watched her take great strides with the Hilltoppers, averaging 10 points per game. A strong defender and lights-out perimeter shooter, Morgan will be the team's go-to option this winter. She enters the discussion at #199.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["764203"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ae506e7a04a4"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">While she may not be a headliner on Minnetonka's varsity roster this season, Martin showed plenty of promise over the summer with the [program_tooltip program_id='712665' first='Metro' last='Stars']. The 5'4 guard showed plenty of toughness on both ends, handled the ball well under pressure, and shot the ball well from beyond the arc. The Skippers senior now joins the rankings at #200.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->