Ayla Keefe Ayla Keefe 5'11" | SF/SG Newman School | 2028 State New E (2028) | SF/SG |

Keefe has found her home at Davidson. She just made her verbal commitment to pursue her dreams a few days ago. There’s just so much to like about Ayla’s game. It’s no wonder an exciting program like Davidson wanted to get her locked in early.

Ayla had an impressive sophomore season and will now look to carry that momentum into the spring AAU season with the Bay State Jaguars UAA team. Her strong play earned her selection as a NEPSAC Class AAA All-Star. She shows advanced footwork around the basket, stepping around defenders while staying balanced before finishing the play. She also does not shy away from contact and embraces it to earn trips to the free throw line. Defensively she moves her feet extremely well, making it very difficult for opposing players to beat her off the dribble.

Ayla delivered an outstanding offensive performance against Hoosac, scoring 23 points on an efficient 8-of-11 shooting from the field while going 7-of-9 from the free-throw line. She has a polished mid-range game, highlighted by a strong step back move that creates separation from defenders. Ayla finishes well around the basket, lowering her shoulder to play through contact and converting contested layups on either side with both hands.

Ayla Keefe Ayla Keefe 5'11" | SF/SG Newman School | 2028 State New E (2028) | 5’11 Wing | Newman

Keefe is a beautiful watch for any genuine basketball lovers. The way she fluidly moves, her adaptability and timely playmaking are all striking features of her game, but there’s this magiclike quality she plays with that’s imperative to mention when discussing her full skillset.

Keefe’s recent 23 point showing vs Hoosac was a masterclass in advanced technique. To be frank, if this is how Ayla is going to continue to play in 2026, she should definitely be considered a top 5 player in her class.

Ayla Keefe Ayla Keefe 5'11" | SF/SG Newman School | 2028 State New E (2028) | 5’11 SF | Newman

Ayla has been a menace on the floor this season. She’s been super valuable for Newman, creating opportunities for herself as well as others while still being a sound defender. Ayla finds her shots within the flow of the offense plus she’s a dynamic driver with crafty finishes. On the other side of the ball, Keefe can serve as a catalyst to set the tone. She makes highlight blocks look easy and has no problem showing physicality no matter who’s she guarding. Without a doubt Ayla is one of the best in the class.

Ayla Keefe Ayla Keefe 5'11" | SF/SG Newman School | 2028 State New E (2028) | 5’11 SF/SG | Newman

Newman’s games will be circled on the calendar those upcoming season and Keefe will be a key factor. She processes the game well and requires the defense’s full attention throughout the course of the game. Not just an offensive force, Ayla is active in team’s defensive schematics, regularly being in the right position to help make a play. Keefe ticks all the boxes for a 2-way force, plus she’s got a fiery competitive drive. This is a sound choice for someone who fits the bill as a sterling ’28 prospect.

Ayla Keefe Ayla Keefe 5'11" | SF/SG Newman School | 2028 State New E (2028) | 5’11 SF/SG | Newman

Ayla is a phenominal wing prospect that’s absolutely influential within the game. Keefe has many ways she can be effective and after a big summer, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the ’28 rising star to carry over the statley play into the hs season. Ayla is flatly one of the most fun players to watch right now and there’s no denying her gifts. She’ll be a large contributor that’ll be producing with flair.

Ayla Keefe Ayla Keefe 5'11" | SF/SG Newman School | 2028 State New E (2028) | 5’11 SF | Bay State Jags

Keefe already had the offensive bag, but from recent play, it was her defensive ability that jumped off the page. Keefe covers a lot of ground with her quick bursts of speed. She also is one of the best at recovering immediately. Ayla is low to the ground and pounces out of her stance, looking to make a play. Not only that, but Keefe can play many roles while guarding at least 3 different positions. She’s still showing that dazzling playmaking capacity on offense when her number is called. The beautiful counters in the lane as well as creation off the dribble are always timely too. Ayla is of the more useful players in the entire class.

Ayla Keefe Ayla Keefe 5'11" | SF/SG Newman School | 2028 State New E (2028) | 5’11 Wing | Bay State Jags

UNH just extended an offer to Keefe. The tremendous ’28 wing has great physical traits and can fit many roles. She’s capable from all over the floor, plus she brings a different level of activeness to the lineup. There’ll be plenty more of coaches reaching out to this ascending talent.

Ayla Keefe Ayla Keefe 5'11" | SF/SG Newman School | 2028 State New E (2028) | Guard/Wing | Newman

Keefe has arrived on the scene and made a huge impression early on. One look at her game and its clear why she’s talked about in the way she is. Ayla provided Newman with the perimeter advantage many times in the season. The various ways she’s able to put the ball in the basket is exceptionally noteworthy, especially bearing in mind that she’s just a freshman. Keefe’s game is well beyond her years. The different ways she can create her own shots are absolutely striking. She’s very fast, so she can get through the lane swiftly and requires extra attention. This just opens things up for teammates around the floor. She gives defenders many different looks and players must be on their toes when guarding her. Ayla is ranked the #26 overall player in the class. Keep an eye on her though, she could quickly climb even higher.