Entering the action on Sunday, Koles was an immediate firecracker the moment she stepped on the court, getting involved right away. No matter the setting, no matter the opponent, Koles will fight for every inch on the floor which is why she’s one of the best defenders in the Class of 2029. When watching Koles, it’s like your eyes are everywhere, because she is constantly moving, finding open areas of opportunity. When the ball is in her hands, she’s going to knock down a sweet pull-up jump shot. Nivaya is a spark of energy every time, and can be counted on for key baskets to lock in the win.

+3 Following a freshman season where her piranha-like perimeter defense earned her a spot in the rotation at Lakeville North, Koles has taken yet another leap this spring. The 5’7 guard has been a standout performer on the Minnesota Fury 2029 S40 squad all season, excelling as the team’s lightning quick, knockdown three-point shooter. Each time she steps on the court, Nivaya plays high-tempo, high-effort basketball that allows her to be incredibly impactful on both ends of the floor. Elevating her game at an astounding pace, Koles moves up three places in the rankings, making her entrance into the top 25.

+10 Everybody focuses on scoring the basketball. In reality, the most direct way to get on the floor as a freshman in high school or college is to be a strong defender who understands the assignment and takes care of the basketball. That’s exactly what Koles did to earn a spot in the Panthers lineup. She took on all manner of defensive assignments and shone. She also did her job at the other end, distributing with poise and precision and scoring nearly 9 points per game, carrying more load than anticipated. Nivaya’s energy and effort is off the charts as is her quickness, and pace. She earned a promotion of 10 places to #26.

Standing at 5’7 with a long, wiry frame, Koles isn’t going to blow you away with her size or strength. Where she truly shines is her energy, effort, and sheer speed. Nivaya is the type of player who brings a spark every time she steps on the floor. On the defensive end, it shows up in her super-active, high-pressure perimeter defense. With tremendous quickness, a bounce in her step, and lighting fast hands, the Lakeville North freshman poses a serious challenge for any ball handler that goes up against her. On offense, Koles is confident with the ball, makes passes on a dime, and is a knockdown long-range shooter.