What a year this has been for Smelser. Every regional D2 coach I talk to seems to know her game well, and the ensuing conversations are always interesting. Anyone watching the Expo knows why. Anna impacts every area of the game on both sides of the ball. A physical, pace-pushing guard, she thrives in run-and-gun situations, firing sharp passes and scoring with an improved mid-range game. Her competitive drive is strong, and she embraces the alpha role. Smelser’s steady climb in the rankings over the past year – she went from #82 to #72 to #62 – reflects her growth. Strong, skilled, and tireless in her work ethic, Anna is bound for big things.

Once overlooked, now undeniable – Smelser is quickly becoming a scholarship-level prospect. The 5’8 guard from Robbinsdale-Armstrong in Plymouth, MN is ranked #72 among the 2027s and continues to rise. She’s physically strong, fast-paced, and leads by example. Smelser does it all: scoring, rebounding, distributing, defending – and always with maximum energy. Her signature one-armed outlet passes, and her growing mid-range jumper gives defenders more to worry about. Anna is one of the most competitive guards in the class, a player who is committed to long-term improvement with a destination in mind.

+10 – If we had to use one word to describe Anna it would be “sleeper.” She made it through three rankings cycles with little notice before making the list last fall at #82. We just didn’t know what we didn’t know. Now we do know and you should to. Smelser is one of the most underappreciated, most versatile contributors in the class, a player who impacts the game across the scoresheet. Anna led Armstrong in scoring at just under 12 ppg while averaging 4.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.2 steals, but it is her sheer level of effort, energy and intensity that really stands out. She moves up 10 spots.

#82 – The versatile guard from Armstrong High School is a workhorse whose motor is impressive. That is one of the most underrated assets a prospect can have because sheer effort and a superior work ethic can carry you a long way at the next level. Anna has grown bigger and stronger over the past year and her skillset has grown substantially, as well. Smelser contributes in all aspects of the game and is only going to get better.

The Minnesota Freeze guard had an outstanding day on Sunday when she showed off the major improvements she’s made to her game. Not only has Anna gotten bigger and stronger but more skilled, too. She’s developed a silky smooth jump shot, ability to attack the basket with great body control, and a keen sense for where to distribute the ball. Smelser’s game also features a motor that never stops running, and a great attitude both on and off the court. Anna was a mainstay at Robbinsdale Armstrong in her freshman season, where she averaged 5.9 points, 2.5 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. This year she is likely to play an even bigger role for the Falcons.