Nichole has battled back from injury, and it was great to see her back on the court for Detroit Edison at Oakland Team Camp. Nichole anchored the middle of the defense. She rotated well from the help side to block layups, talked, and worked hard to secure rebounds. Nichole switched hands comfortably as a face-up driver and finished with a nice touch around the basket.

Nichole, a junior post player for DEPSA, brings strength, size, and a commanding presence to the paint every time she steps on the floor. She’s a true rim protector, altering shots and making opponents think twice about attacking the lane. On the glass, Nichole rebounds effectively on both ends, securing possessions for her team and creating second-chance opportunities. Offensively, she showcases polished footwork and soft hands, allowing her to operate comfortably in the post and finish with either hand around the rim. Her physicality and skill set make her a reliable interior force and a key piece for DEPSA.

Nichole started the game red hot from 3-point distance, hitting three corner triples for DEPSA in the first quarter of the semifinals. She stayed consistent for the Pioneers all game–scoring contested layups with touch and strength inside. Nichole flexed her muscles in the biggest game of the year and refused to be stopped. She ended the game with a team-high 23 points and proved exactly why she’s the highest-ranked power forward in the 2027 class. Nichole’s passion and toughness permeate the room–her development as a perimeter threat is going to make her even more dynamic on offense.

Nichole is known for her impact in the paint but became a perimeter threat during the semifinals. She made West Catholic pay for leaving her open in the corner by burying three triples in the first quarter. Nichole battled to secure an offensive rebound and scored the put-back off the glass. Nichole banked in a mid-range turnaround jumper, scored a floater, and added a strong drop-step and one finish. She blocked a shot on the defensive end and gave the Pioneers her best with a team-leading 23 points.

Nichole was a force inside for DEPSA at BCAM Reaching Higher. She has the quickness to face up and beat defenders off the bounce, while using her length and strength to seal with her back to the basket. Nichole scored off two in the paint and outworked opponents to secure offensive rebounds for put-backs. One of her best moments was when she ferociously blocked a shot in the paint and then showed great sportsmanship by helping her opponent up off the floor.

Nichole James Nichole James 6'2" | PF/C Edison Academy | 2027 State MI Michigan Crossoer 2027-EYBL is an imposing power in the paint on both ends and she has that edge I would want as a coach from my top post player. Her height, shot-blocking and rebounding intensity, mixed with her powerful finishing off two at our Freshman Showcase and every time I’ve watched her in action, make her a top 2027 PF in Michigan. I’m eager to see her battle inside against other top forwards from Indiana and Michigan this weekend.