Orlando Teams to Watch: The Central Florida Power List

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Girls' basketball in Orlando is on the rise, and this season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet. Across Central Florida, talented programs showcasing elite skill, relentless teamwork, and young athletes ready to make their mark. Whether you're a coach, player, parent, or fan, these Orlando teams are proving that girls' basketball deserves the spotlight. Here are the top programs you'll want to keep your eyes on as the competition heats up.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bishop Moore</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Bishop Moore is a team to watch out for this season, and they may surprise a lot of people. They've added key pieces to an already talented roster, giving them a more complete and balanced look. Last year's record doesn't reflect the true potential of this group, and this season they appear ready to show what they're capable of. New addition [player_tooltip player_id='738515' first='Kylee' last='Trent'] brings versatility as a dynamic combo guard who can score at all three levels and create for others. They also return [player_tooltip player_id='727591' first='Jaiden' last='Peterson'], an elite defender who excels at forcing turnovers and disrupting experienced guards. [player_tooltip player_id='1235154' first='Lillian' last='Mathis'] continues to develop her offensive game and gives Bishop Moore a strong inside presence.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ocoee</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Ocoee is coming off an impressive 25–4 season that ended with a trip to the Final Four, and they look poised to make another strong run. This talented group has not only retained key contributors but has also added even more depth and athleticism. Returning standout [player_tooltip player_id='470458' first='Dakara' last='Merthie'] brings explosive guard play, scoring ability, and the kind of athleticism that consistently creates problems for opposing defenses. Joining her this year is [player_tooltip player_id='1320419' first='Taliyah' last='Trent'], who adds versatility and all-around support on both ends of the floor. Ocoee also welcomes [player_tooltip player_id='248673' first='Aubrey' last='Satterfield'], a strong defender whose energy and toughness will elevate their defensive presence. With these additions, Ocoee is positioned to remain a dominant force this season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The First Academy</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The First Academy is coming off an impressive 23–5 season, one that could have gone even further if not for a late injury to a key player. They spent most of the year ranked inside MaxPreps' top 25, and this season they return with the same championship mindset—and even more talent. Leading the way is [player_tooltip player_id='874206' first='Bianca' last='Hall'], one of the top guards in the state, known for her elite shooting, shot creation, and defensive ability. Alongside her is [player_tooltip player_id='873458' first='Avery' last='Michels'], a tall, skilled guard with deep shooting range and excellent passing IQ. The team also welcomes Jaleicia Tyler and Jaslynn Easley, two strong additions who will help The First Academy continue its pursuit of a state championship.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Windermere Prep</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Windermere Prep is coming off a strong 21–8 season, finishing as one of the top 10 teams in Orlando, and they enter this year with high expectations. The team returns the talented sister duo, [player_tooltip player_id='846674' first='Eni' last='Oyedeji'] and [player_tooltip player_id='924660' first='Joba' last='Oyedeji'], who bring a dominant inside presence through their rebounding, shot-altering ability, and efficient scoring around the basket. They also return guard [player_tooltip player_id='249395' first='Jazlyn' last='Bowman'], a tough matchup for weaker defenders thanks to her ability to attack off the dribble, create opportunities, and finish at all three levels. With their balanced inside-out threat and growing experience, Windermere Prep looks poised to make a deep run in Class 3A and establish themselves as a contender once again.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Gateway</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Gateway is coming off a strong 20–7 season and looks ready to build on that success with an even bigger year ahead. They return [player_tooltip player_id='1215720' first='Alyssa' last='Marino'], a quick and explosive guard capable of catching fire at any moment with her scoring ability. Joining her is [player_tooltip player_id='1122373' first='Ashlynn' last='Day'], an elite guard who made a major impact as a freshman and now enters her sophomore season poised for an even larger role. The team also brings back [player_tooltip player_id='1217153' first='Evana' last='Rivera'], an athletic, high-energy guard whose physical defensive presence sets the tone on that end of the floor. With their blend of speed, toughness, and scoring power, Gateway is positioned to take another big step forward this season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->