Don't Overlook These Underrated '27 Guards This Summer

As June is fast approaching and Summer is nearing, it's a significant time for the '27 class. Although many aren't finished products yet, many schools are paying attention to these rising juniors during this time. Sometimes with so much high-level basketball being played and the leading players consistently being in the headlines, players can get lost in the shuffle. It's imperative to spotlight other players amongst the talented class that're notable too. Underneath is a couple '27 players not to overlook as the weather and hoops heat up even more.   Use code MBG30 for 30% off your first purchase of any subscription.    [player_tooltip player_id='1132823' first='Layla' last='Rivera'] (2027) | CG | Butler Heat Elite   Rivera has the capacity to be a dangerous point generator with a nice-looking shot that can get going at any time. Her smooth game seems too difficult to disrupt when she's in a flow. Rivera plays with a swagger and confidence that portrays someone who feels they're one of the best on the court each time a foot is stepped on the court.     [player_tooltip player_id='492268' first='Sammi' last='Santacroce'] (2027) | 5'5 CG | IBelieve   Sammi is such a fluid attacker that each defender needs to be aware of early on. Her handle in combination with off the dribble scoring allow her to create in just about any possession type. Sammi's explosiveness from low positions can really help propel her to the next spot. She's also quite slippery, players guarding her require different tactics to keep her out of the lane. The aggressiveness isn't entirely expressed on offense though, Santacroce is also a stable defender.     [player_tooltip player_id='1052537' first='Nia' last='Fifield'] (2027) | 5'6 PG/SG | Boston Showstoppers   What can't Fifield do? She can serve as the primary floor general or shift to a secondary initiator while providing all the intangibles needs to win games. One of these qualities is her ability to impact the glass as a guard; Fifield is a monster on the boards. She isn't afraid to bang down low with the bruisers. Nia also has impressive ball control skills; she protects the ball exceptionally well from plucking defenders. Fifield is a prime defender herself. There just aren't many better aggravators in the entire class. The efficient playmaking with the high assist count, plus her stifling on-ball defense hold plenty of weight.     [player_tooltip player_id='813535' first='Alexis' last='Menard-O'Neil'] (2027) | 5'7 PG/CG | MA Huskies   Alexis embodies that competitive spirit every coach wants in their lead guard. That fiery energy is packed within an athletic frame that can't wait to pounce on either side of the ball. It doesn't take much for Alexis to have an effect on plays either. Menard O'Neil loves to push the pace too; she certainly excels in upbeat tempos, shining brighter than ever in transition. That athleticism allows her to hold her own against any competitor. The '27 guard is a standout through those tough high-energy games.     [player_tooltip player_id='1056085' first='Alanna' last='Colon'] (2027) | CG |   Alanna can be such a forceful guard that can help lift her team at any point with a healthy long-range shot and hard-hitting combos off the dribble. Colon is a shot-seeker with the ball in her hands, but she does possess the ability to knock down shots as teammates kick out looking for an outlet on the perimeter. Her quick burst of speed allows her to get the edge over many defenders. It's likely Alanna moves up in the upcoming rankings, keep an eye out for her new positioning.

As June is fast approaching and Summer is nearing, it's a significant time for the '27 class. Although many aren't finished products yet, many schools are paying attention to these rising juniors during this time. Sometimes with so much high-level basketball being played and the leading players consistently being in the headlines, players can get lost in the shuffle. It's imperative to spotlight other players amongst the talented class that're notable too. Underneath is a couple '27 players not to overlook as the weather and hoops heat up even more.