As if it wasn’t confusing enough watching Crossfire Bluestar against Crossfire E32, I had to glance at the Bluestar roster more than once to be certain if I was watching Lauinger or McCormick. The two might pass for sisters, both in appearance and in the way they play the game. The two guards are both intelligent, unselfish, and relentlessly competitive. McCormick might be a touch more aggressive offensively. She gets into the paint, creates opportunities, and always seems willing to make the extra pass if it leads to a better shot. My favorite moment came when she absorbed a hard charge from big Taylah Jahnke Taylah Jahnke 5'10" | SF/SG Watertown-Mayer | 2027 State MN , hit the floor with a bang, then looked up with a big smile on her face as teammates rushed over to help her get up. That tells you plenty about her mindset. Ellie plays fast without appearing rushed, defends with purpose, and impacts the game in subtle ways.

At 5’8, McCormick plays with speed, smarts, and nonstop energy. She has a smooth jump shot and contributes in every phase of the game. Her court vision and passing instincts make her a playmaker in transition, while her lateral quickness and length fuel her disruptive defense. Ellie consistently creates turnovers and gets her team out in transition. She’s a confident, composed competitor who brings positive energy to every possession. Her ability to play fast without losing control, coupled with her commitment to both ends of the court, makes her a rising guard to keep an eye on.

McCormick impressed with her two-way impact at the Expo. After an early baseline jumper, she settled in and became a factor everywhere, using quickness and length to defend and create turnovers. She generated a midcourt steal and set up Ava Litecky Ava Litecky 5'11" | CG/SF Totino-Grace | 2027 State MN with a pinpoint assist that showcased her vision and pace. McCormick is quick laterally and was quite disruptive as an on-ball defender who could harass even the quickest of opponents without fouling. Ellie spent the day flying up and down the floor and affecting the game on both ends with energy and confidence.