If there was a breakdown on how to adjust and still make an impact, Nanank’s situation would be front page. Coming off averaging the most PPG in high school, she joined a program where she wasn’t going to be the sole focal point offensively. That meant learning to play off the ball, scoring with fewer dribbles, playing at different speeds, facilitating for teammates, being okay with someone else taking the big shot, and even understanding that some games wouldn’t come with major minutes. If usage rate was tracked in both AAU and high school, there would be a major difference between the two, but I truly don’t believe her impact ever declined. If anything, I think it grew because she had to find different ways to affect the game. Overall, she went from being the first option to one of many because she was surrounded by other talent, just as good, if not better. To me, that should show coaches two major things: coachability and adaptability. I’m excited to see how she carries what she learned this summer into her final high school season.

Running with Chicago Hoops Express this summer has put Nanak up against tougher competition than she may be used to, but she has still found ways to make an impact on offense. Her ability to shift her focus based on what’s needed has been the most impressive part of her game to me. She has the speed, the strength, and has continued to build the IQ needed to play off the ball while also finding ways to be effective as a playmaker outside of just scoring.

The top scorer in Illinois during the high school season. Nanak has everything you’re looking for in an aggressive scoring guard. She’s built tough, has a strong amount of athleticism, and has no issue with contact when attacking the rim. As the competition for her increases and she maintains the same output, coaches will definitely start to take notice.

A definite stock riser in the 2027 class when the next update drops. Mante has been overlooked some due to her location and a minor injury setback a while back. But this past season, and now through the first couple of weeks of AAU, it is clear that she is different, even while playing alongside other standout players. Her frame does not fully show how strong she is, and her ability to make quick reads and shift stands out on both sides. She is a high energy kid as well. There is no doubt she has talent, but when that talent shows up against stronger competition while also playing with other skilled players, that is where the separation starts. High potential.