This is one of the most anticipated postseason rematches of the year after Nova edged St. Thomas Aquinas by four in late January. Both squads are battle-tested and ranked among the top ten teams in the state regardless of classification, and this time STA will have home-court advantage. Laila didn’t have her best outing in the first matchup, but she’s playing with more confidence now and has the ability to swing this game with timely buckets, key rebounds, or disruptive steals. She’s coming off a strong region semifinal performance with 15 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 steals in the win over Mater Academy — and another all-around impact game could be the difference in punching their ticket to state.

Laila Barnett Laila Barnett 5'8" | CG St. Thomas Aquinas | 2028 State FL shows impressive agility on both ends of the floor, using her quick first step to blow by defenders offensively and to force turnovers defensively. She thrives in transition, where she can finish creatively around the rim. Laila has strong shooting form both off the catch and the dribble, with a reliable mid-range game. As she continues to perfect that skill, defenders will struggle to anticipate whether she’ll pull up or attack the basket. She also has the ability to draw fouls consistently and is automatic at the free-throw line. Competing on the EYBL circuit this travel season has sharpened her confidence and prepared her for a breakout high school season—one that could propel her into the Top 50 in the next rankings.