Class of 2021 SoCal Players to Watch

The 2019-20 season has come and gone, and each year we see different players rise up and take on expanded roles for their respective teams. Sometimes freshmen are able to step in right away and make a big impact. Older players take on a bigger role. For the class of 2021, this upcoming year is huge. Not only is it their final year of high school basketball, but it’s also one more shot at showcasing their game for college coaches. Here’s a few players I’ve been able to watch this year who could take a big step forward as a senior. <strong>1. [player_tooltip player_id="102658" first="Anaya" last="James"] – West Torrance</strong> James is a flat out scorer and a leader on the court. She has a solid off the dribble game; she can attack the rim and finish over defenders. She can also draw contact and get herself to the free-throw line. In West Torrance’s semifinal loss to Harvard-Westlake, James kept the team in the game. Had a 40 point game this season. Good defensive player on the perimeter; creates turnovers with pressure. <strong>2. Briliyah Taylor – Lynwood</strong> Taylor is a strong wing compliment to the inside presence of [player_tooltip player_id="49225" first="Rayah" last="Marshall"]. She is quick off the dribble and solid on the fast break. She can attack the rim and she can finish strong over bigger defenders. Also able to get to the free-throw line. Good shooter from distance; quick release when open. She’s able to play both guard positions; comfortable as a playmaker. <strong>3. [player_tooltip player_id="49226" first="Khylee" last="Pepe"] – Bishop Montgomery</strong> With the graduations of Kayla Williams and Kayla Padilla, Pepe stepped up as a junior for the Knights. She surpassed that 1,000 points mark and had a 41 point game in CIF playoffs. She is a versatile player who can play both inside and out. She can act as a post and score around the rim and she can play as a guard and shoot from the outside. Can handle the ball and is a decent passer. <strong>4. [player_tooltip player_id="103658" first="Calli" last="Stokes"] – Redondo Union</strong> Stokes is a very good defensive player whose toolbox allows her to guard multiple positions. She moves her feet well and is quick enough to keep up with wings on the perimeter. She can also drop back and cover bigs in the paint with her length. In terms of offense, she can handle the ball and has a nice set of offensive moves. Good footwork. Moves without the ball and makes strong cuts along the baseline. <strong>5. Kalaya Buggs – Long Beach Poly</strong> Buggs is another strong wing who can play guard and some small forward. She is a good rebounder for a wing. She has a stronger playmaking game; she’s comfortable with the ball in her hands and making plays for others. She can get her own shot when she wants to whether that’s attacking the rim, pulling up for a jumper, or shooting from the outside.