Class of 2029: All Hoops, No Hype - 5 Guards Setting the Tone

The next wave of Alabama girls basketball guards is already showing advanced feel, confidence, and competitive edge well beyond their class year. In the Class of 2029, perimeter play is being defined by guards who can score, create, defend, and impact games in multiple ways. [player_tooltip player_id='1227641' first='Addison' last='Reese Hammond'] stretches defenses with shooting gravity and efficiency, [player_tooltip player_id='1207417' first='Kristen' last='Winston'] applies constant pressure as a versatile on- and off-ball threat, [player_tooltip player_id='1207423' first='Morgan' last='Lilly'] sets the tone with pace and defensive intensity, [player_tooltip player_id='1039011' first='Sophie' last='Konrad'] brings composure and shot-making balance, and [player_tooltip player_id='1207449' first='Naomi' last='Wise'] impacts both ends with physicality and versatility. This group represents a guard class built on skill, confidence, and competitive habits that translate early.    [player_tooltip player_id='1207417' first='Kristen' last='Winston'] — 5'10 | Combo Guard | Hoover   [player_tooltip player_id='1207417' first='Kristen' last='Winston'] is an aggressive, confident combo guard whose offensive impact is driven by pace, shot-making ability, and versatility. She is comfortable scoring at all three levels, mixing perimeter shooting with decisive downhill attacks and a reliable pull-up game. Winston applies pressure whether she's initiating offense or playing off the ball, showing a strong understanding of spacing and timing. Her ability to score without needing constant control of the ball makes her difficult to scheme against, as she can hurt defenses through movement, quick reads, and assertive shot selection.   Defensively, Winston brings competitiveness and energy that complement her offensive game. She stays engaged on the ball, anticipates passing lanes, and rebounds her position well for a guard. Her willingness to defend multiple spots and embrace physical matchups adds to her two-way value. Winston's impact is defined by versatility, offensive assertiveness, and competitive edge—making her a reliable backcourt presence who can influence games as both a primary creator and a scoring threat within the flow.     [player_tooltip player_id='1207423' first='Morgan' last='Lilly'] — 5'7 | Point Guard | Saint James School   [player_tooltip player_id='1207423' first='Morgan' last='Lilly'] is a competitive, high-motor point guard whose game is driven by pace, toughness, and constant pressure on the defense. She attacks off the bounce with confidence, changes speeds effectively, and isn't afraid of contact despite her size. Lilly plays with an assertive mindset, looking to create advantages in transition and in the half court by getting downhill and forcing defenders to commit. Her willingness to take on responsibility as a play initiator shows in how she controls tempo and keeps the offense organized while still applying scoring pressure.   Defensively, Lilly sets the tone with ball pressure and effort. She embraces the challenge of guarding opposing ball handlers, using anticipation, quick hands, and nonstop energy to disrupt rhythm and create turnovers. Her activity level never dips, often leading to momentum-shifting plays that spark her team on both ends of the floor. Lilly's impact is defined by intensity, resilience, and competitive edge—making her a floor leader who influences winning through pressure, effort, and fearless play.     [player_tooltip player_id='1227641' first='Addison' last='Reese Hammond'] — 5'10 | Combo Guard | Guntersville | 15 PPG | 4 APG | 5 RPG | 3 SPG | 56 3FG (20 games)   [player_tooltip player_id='1227641' first='Addison' last='Reese Hammond'] is a high-IQ combo guard whose offensive impact is driven by shooting gravity, efficiency, and feel for the game. She is a proven perimeter threat with deep range and a confident release, stretching defenses well beyond the arc and punishing late closeouts. Hammond understands spacing and timing, thriving both on and off the ball, and her ability to relocate, lift, and read defensive rotations creates consistent scoring windows. The volume and efficiency of her three-point production reflect a player who doesn't rely on forced attempts, but instead capitalizes on smart movement and shot selection.   Defensively, Hammond brings activity and awareness that elevate her two-way value. She anticipates passing lanes, applies pressure when needed, and turns defensive reads into transition opportunities. Her rebounding from the guard spot adds another layer to her impact, allowing her to finish possessions and immediately initiate offense. Hammond's game is defined by balance, composure, and shooting presence—making her a versatile guard who enhances offensive flow while delivering consistent production on both ends of the floor.     [player_tooltip player_id='1039011' first='Sophie' last='Konrad'] —5'8 | Combo Guard | Good Hope High   [player_tooltip player_id='1039011' first='Sophie' last='Konrad'] is a poised, skilled combo guard whose offensive value comes from shot-making versatility and feel for the game. She is comfortable scoring at all three levels, showing a smooth perimeter stroke, a reliable pull-up, and the ability to finish plays without needing high usage. Conrad plays within the flow of the offense, understands spacing, and makes smart decisions when attacking closeouts. Her composure allows her to be effective both on and off the ball, giving her the flexibility to impact games in multiple roles.   Defensively, Konrad brings awareness and discipline. She competes within team concepts, stays connected off the ball, and anticipates actions well. Her willingness to defend and rebound her position adds to her overall value, especially in lineups that value trust and execution. Konrad's impact is defined by reliability, efficiency, and offensive balance—making her a steady guard presence who contributes consistently and elevates team rhythm.     [player_tooltip player_id='1207449' first='Naomi' last='Wise'] — 5'10 | Wing | Fort Payne   [player_tooltip player_id='1207449' first='Naomi' last='Wise'] is a versatile wing whose game is built on athleticism, physicality, and two-way impact. She thrives attacking downhill, using strength and body control to finish through contact and apply consistent pressure at the rim. Wise is comfortable scoring within the flow of the offense, whether off the catch, on straight-line drives, or by running the floor in transition. Her willingness to cut, screen, and make timely reads allows her to contribute without needing high-volume touches.   Defensively, Wise brings intensity and versatility that translate across multiple matchups. She can guard multiple positions, use her length to disrupt actions on the perimeter, and rebound effectively from the wing spot. Her effort level remains high on every possession, often leading to momentum plays that don't always show in the box score. Wise's impact is defined by toughness, adaptability, and competitive edge—making her a dependable two-way wing who influences winning through effort, defense, and physical play.    As these guards continue to develop, their influence will only grow with experience, strength, and expanded responsibility. [player_tooltip player_id='1227641' first='Addison' last='Reese Hammond'], [player_tooltip player_id='1207417' first='Kristen' last='Winston'], [player_tooltip player_id='1207423' first='Morgan' last='Lilly'], [player_tooltip player_id='1039011' first='Sophie' last='Konrad'], and [player_tooltip player_id='1207449' first='Naomi' last='Wise'] already understand that guard play is about more than scoring—it's about decision-making, defensive pressure, and controlling momentum. Their games are trending in the right direction because the foundation is already present: effort, feel, and fearlessness. This Class of 2029 guard group is shaping the future of Alabama's backcourts with versatility, competitiveness, and confidence. Above The Noise. All hoops. No hype.

The next wave of Alabama girls basketball guards is already showing advanced feel, confidence, and competitive edge well beyond their class year. In the Class of 2029, perimeter play is being defined by guards who can score, create, defend, and impact games in multiple ways. Addison Reese Hammond Addison Reese Hammond 5'10" | SG/PG Guntersville | 2029 State AL stretches defenses with shooting gravity and efficiency, Kristen Winston Kristen Winston 5'10" | CG Hoover | 2029 State AL applies constant pressure as a versatile on- and off-ball threat, Morgan Lilly Morgan Lilly 5'7" | PG Saint James | 2029 State AL sets the tone with pace and defensive intensity, Sophie Konrad Sophie Konrad 5'8" | SG/PG Good Hope | 2029 State AL brings composure and shot-making balance, and Naomi Wise Naomi Wise 5'10" | PF/SG Fort Payne | 2029 State AL impacts both ends with physicality and versatility. This group represents a guard class built on skill, confidence, and competitive habits that translate early.