The biggest thing that has stood out to me this summer is Cooper’s ability to turn nothing into something. Just when you think the play is over or a turnover has happened, she finds a way to create an even better one, which to me speaks to her creativity. When you’re playing within a different system, being able to play with that type of freedom and flow seems to bring out the best in her playmaking and vision. As her overall offensive skill set as a scorer continues to expand, a big junior season could be ahead for Mikaela.

Lake Zurich will be on everyone’s watch list this year, and its guard position is strong. And if Cooper is getting some solid minutes at the varsity level, there are a variety of ways she can contribute. Defensively is where she’ll stick out. The lateral movement is quick, she’s up for the challenge, and doesn’t seem to have fear in her approach on this side of the ball, either.

I have been able to watch Mikaela a bunch of times over the past couple of months. She seems to improve with every game. She is light on her feet and has a fluidity and quickness that highlights her on both ends of the court. She has been playing great on-ball defense and responds to her opponents’ movements and disrupts their plays. She maintains control in high-pressure situations.