North Coast Open Division Semifinal Preview: Frontcourt X-factors

Expect both semifinal matchups to be competitive and come down to the wire. Who will be the difference makers in the frontcourt? The ladies below have the size and versatility to control the paint, dominate the glass, and make their presence known on both ends.    Ella runs the floor very well and is able to finish quickly around the basket. This makes her a threat in the transition game because of her ability to rim-run. Her mobility is hard to keep up with throughout the game. Ella understands how to use her length and quickness to generate deflections. She displays good verticality in the post defensively. Keeps the ball high with ability to snag contested rebounds. 1 notable performance earlier this year: 28 points, 15 rebounds. The athleticism is a difference maker at her size. One of the most reliable bigs in the junior class.     Celeste is an athletic forward with plenty of game. Fundamentally sound with a high motor! She displays nice touch in the mid range, particularly from the mid-high post. Celeste thrives in the pick-n-roll. Good screen setter who rolls hard every time. Can score with her back-to-the-basket using an effective hook shot in her arsenal. Celeste also has the quickness to beat her defender off-the-dribble and score in faceup opportunities. Excellent cutter without the basketball. Runs the floor well. Elite post defender and shot blocker who takes pride in owning the paint. She provides indispensable value on both ends.     Andrea is a smooth, versatile forward who does a lot of things well. She is crafty scoring in the paint with the ball in her hands. Quick 1st step and a confident ball handler. Plays with good pace and is always under control. Excels in transition. Andrea is able to finish around the basket over multiple defenders. She displays explosive athleticism whenever she attacks the glass. Solid mechanics on her jumper. The standout sophomore has shown flashes of being an elite rim protector. Defends multiple positions at a high level. Andrea checks all the boxes and continues to get better and better with more experience.     Saniyah has the ability to own the paint throughout stretches of the game. She is a physical presence for Piedmont and someone who can really get going when she is locked in. Intimidating shot blocker. Competes hard on the glass. Makes good decisions when she gets the ball. Saniyah battles for loose balls and is willing to do whatever it takes to win. Her leadership and IQ will do wonders for Piedmont in the semifinals.     Versatile forward who plays her role to perfection! Maya has a beautiful stroke on her high-arcing jumper. Impressive length, shooting ability, and all-around impact at her position. Maya gives her team a spark on both ends. She can swat a shot and turn it into two points. She can jump the passing lane and knock down the 3ball in transition. Unselfish player who can fit into any system. Maya is a high-IQ, two-way prospect who makes winning plays even if the ball is not in her hands.

Expect both semifinal matchups to be competitive and come down to the wire. Who will be the difference makers in the frontcourt? The ladies below have the size and versatility to control the paint, dominate the glass, and make their presence known on both ends.