Class D-1 Players to Watch: Four from 2024

Continuing in the series, we are diving into some players to watch from Class D-1 during the summer. Each of these ladies have shown flashes of being special and will look to build on their solid sophomore seasons heading into their offseason. &nbsp; Josilyn Miller | Niobrara/Verdigre | Guard | 5'5" Defense translating to offense is Miller's key to success. Miller and the Cougars love to put a ton of pressure on ball handlers to create turnovers and easy shot opportunities. She was able to shoot 55% from inside the three point arc, on her way to averaging 19.6 points per game, while creating 4.2 steals per game her sophomore year. Miller is a feisty guard, and even with her size, was able to manage 4.6 rebounds per game as well. As Miller works on shooting with range and in motion, she will be able to light up scoreboards and continue to build on last year's success. <a href="https://www.maxpreps.com/athlete/josilyn-miller/rqYc5e0jEeqAzqREozo6lw/default.htm">https://www.maxpreps.com/athlete/josilyn-miller/rqYc5e0jEeqAzqREozo6lw/default.htm</a> &nbsp; McKenna Yates | McCool Junction | Guard | 5'7" Yates is a well rounded player with a strong basketball IQ. She averaged 18.3 points, 3.7 assists, 5.3 rebounds and 4.1 steals per game, in her second high school season. Yates can get in the lane with her dribbling and make tough shots. She doesn't mind rolling up her sleeves and putting in work in the painted area, as she had two games with double digit rebounds. Similar to Miller, Yates will continue to focus on her shot mechanics which make her one of the top prospects in her class. <a href="https://www.maxpreps.com/athlete/mckenna-yates/pkfZBTTBEeuAzqREozo6lw/default.htm">https://www.maxpreps.com/athlete/mckenna-yates/pkfZBTTBEeuAzqREozo6lw/default.htm</a> &nbsp; Madison Abbenhaus | Bloomfield | Guard | 5'4" The clepto of the 2024 class, Abbenhaus finished second in the state in steals with 6.1 per game. Add in her 17.8 points, 3.2 assists and 4.4 rebounds per game, and you have one of the best all around players in Class D. Abbenhaus defensive hands and ability to play passing lanes creates fast break opportunities and easy plays at the rim. She rebounds well for her size and has a motor that always seems to have her involved in each play. Growth will only make Abbenhaus more impactful and she will have an opportunity to help put the Bees on the map. <a href="https://www.maxpreps.com/athlete/madison-abbenhaus/m2B7GSeNrEqggeq5U8tJkg/default.htm">https://www.maxpreps.com/athlete/madison-abbenhaus/m2B7GSeNrEqggeq5U8tJkg/default.htm</a> &nbsp; Mikah O'Neill | Sumner-Eddyville-Miller | Forward | 5'11" The tallest frame on the list, O'Neill knows how to use her size to her advantage averaging 15.7 points and 10.4 rebounds this past fall. Her volleyball experience has helped in her ability to have solid footwork, quick movement and leaping strength. O'Neill also has solid understanding of angles and playing passes which allows her to create clear passing lanes on offense and challenge on the defensive side of the ball. As O'Neill develops her offensive package, she could become a hot prospect and have the Mustangs heading to the state tournament. <a href="https://www.maxpreps.com/athlete/mikah-oneill/5Js21LwBEUePOG0tQQ-uJg/default.htm">https://www.maxpreps.com/athlete/mikah-oneill/5Js21LwBEUePOG0tQQ-uJg/default.htm</a>