As the high school basketball season in Saskatchewan begins this weekend, I would like to provide coaches and fans with a preview of the players expected to make a significant impact in their final year. This preview will include an assessment of their skills, the level of competition at which they are likely to excel, and any interest they have received from colleges or programs.
#1 Ryan Zimmer
Height: 5'11 Position: Guard
School: Winston Knoll (Regina, SK)
Ryan is a dynamic athlete with considerable size and skill. She is an all-around guard who excels at driving to the paint, where she finishes at a high rate. Ryan was a member of the provincial team for four years and had an impressive performance at nationals this summer. She has received interest from several U Sports schools and will make a significant impact on whichever program recruits her.
#2 Jordyn Neumann
Height: 6'2 Position: Guard School: Miller (Regina, SK)
COMMITTED - UNIVERSITY OF REGINA
Jordyn is an athletic 6'2" wing player who can score at all three levels. Her elite ability to put pressure on the defense when driving to the rim, combined with her significantly improved jump shot, keeps defenders on their toes. She disrupts opponents' game plans by using her length to guard multiple positions and excel in transition. Her overall skill set has attracted serious interest from USport programs, and she is sure to thrive with whichever team signs her.
#3 Dani Meyer
Height: 5'3 Position: Point Guard
School: Swift Current
COMMITTED - LAKELAND COLLEGE
Lakeland Coach Chris King is excited about this commitment and told me, 'We are think Dani's got an extremely high motor, is an elite defender already at the high school level and we think that's going to translate well to our program. Her ability to get downhill, score and shoot the ball are all exciting. We're very excited to see what she can do when she gets here next year.'
#4 Taylor Randall
Height: 5'4 Position: Point Guard
School: Holy Cross (Saskatoon, SK)
Taylor is a quick point guard who effectively leads her team. She is an excellent shooter, demonstrating both the ability and the confidence to take and make important shots. Additionally, Taylor is a relentless defender, actively challenging opposing guards in both full and half-court situations. She has garnered interest from USport programs across the country and will be a valuable addition for the program that recruits her.
#5 Bella Kurz
Height: 5'9 Position: Wing School: Balfour (Regina, SK)
Bella is eager to rebound from a challenging junior season that was cut short due to injuries, which also prevented her from participating in club and provincial teams during the summer. She is an athletic guard with an impressive ability to shoot from long distance. Bella has demonstrated the capability to play both guard positions and make smart decisions that contribute to the team's success. Any USport or CCAA program that recruits her will be gaining an exceptional player.
#6 Sarah Neustaeter
Height: 6'1 Position: Center
School: Swift Current
COMMITTED - BRIERCREST COLLEGE
Coach Anthony Skepple expressed his enthusiasm about Sarah’s contributions to the team, stating, "I'm really excited about the size and skill that Sarah brings to our program. She has an impressive high release on her shot, which makes her appear even taller. She rebounds exceptionally well and serves as a strong rim protector. She will be a great fit as we continue our efforts to reach the top of the ACAC."
#7 Maya Haggerty
Height: 5'9 Position: Wing School: Centennial (Saskatoon, SK)
Maya is an incredibly strong guard/forward with a quick first step for attacking the rim. Her ability to drive to the paint and finish plays a key role in setting up her teammates for kickouts when defensive help arrives. Additionally, she is a capable defender who can guard multiple positions. At the national tournament, she led in offensive rebounds.
She has garnered interest from several USport schools.
#8 Taylor Chepil
Height: 6' Position: Forward
School: Wynyard
COMMITTED - BRIERCREST COLLEGE
Coach Skepple told me, "I'm really impressed with Taylor's size and skill. Not only is she physical in the post, but she can also step outside and make shots from the perimeter. She is an excellent passer from the high post and communicates well both on and off the floor. She will definitely fit in with what we are building in our program."
#9 Maddie Chicoine
Height: 6' Position: Forward School: Winston Knoll (Regina, SK)
Maddie is a tall, athletic player who has been improving at an impressive rate. She has demonstrated the ability to be an elite defender, capable of guarding multiple positions. Additionally, she has a solid shot that defenses must respect. With interest from several CCAA schools, she will be a player to watch this season and the next.
#10 Kylee Michaluk
Height: 5'4 Position: Guard/Wing
School: Swift Current
Kylee is a talented shooter who excels on the wing and effectively spreads the floor. She plays with high intensity and consistently finds ways to contribute to her team's success. Kylee has demonstrated the ability to take on the lead guard role at times, and she will need to make that transition at the next level. She has received offers from CCAA teams and will be a valuable asset for the team that recruits her.
Honorable Mention
Waverley De Massi (5'11 Wing Vanier Moose Jaw, SK)
Blaire Otsig (5'8 Guard Wynyard, SK)
Olivia Leonard- (5'6 Guard Miller Regina, SK)
Jessica Wickland (5'7 Wing Miller Regina, SK)
Kiera Windquist (6'3 Post Lumsden, SK)
Juniana Revilla (5'7 Guard/Wing Bethlehem Saskatoon, SK)
Esther Akinjobi (6' Post St Mary Prince Albert, SK)
Cate Rapin (5'7 Guard St Mary Prince Albert, SK)
Alyssa Sharp (6' Post Carleton Prince Albert, SK)
Skylar Lalonde (5'11 Post St Joseph Saskatoon, SK)
Ellah Flanagan (5'9 Guard Central Moose Jaw, SK)