Class AAAAAA
1. Norcross
2. Carrollton
3. North Forsyth
4. North Paulding
5. Cherokee
6. Lowndes
7. Hillgrove
8. Buford
9. Archer
10. Lambert
Class AAAAA
1. River Ridge
2. Langston Hughes
3. Morrow
4. Woodward Academy
5. Milton
6. Bradwell Institute
7. Creekview
8. New Manchester
9. Sequoyah
10. Tri-Cities
Class AAAA
1. Marist
2. Creekside
3. Maynard Jackson
4. Midtown
5. Dalton
6. North Oconee
7. Harris County
8. Cartersville
9. Kell
10. Warner Robins
Class AAA
1. Fayette County
2. Baldwin
3. White County
4. Jefferson
5. Pickens
6. Oconee County
7. Luella
8. Calhoun
9. Monroe
10. Sandy Creek
Class AA
1. Josey
2. Hardaway
3. Murray County
4. Thomson
5. Butler
6. Carver-Columbus
7. Morgan County
8. Coahulla Creek
9. Columbia
10. Sumter County
Class A D-I
1. Central-Macon
2. Fannin County
3. Dodge County
4. Temple
5. Model
6. Lamar County
7. Banks County
8. Rabun County
9. Washington County
10. Elbert County
Class A D-II
1. Wilcox County
2. Taylor County
3. Seminole County
4. Early County
5. Clinch County
6. Warren County
7. Atkinson County
8. Macon County
9. Bryan County
10. Terrell County
Class 3A-1A Private
1. Hebron Christian
2. Holy Innocents’
3. Mt. Paran
4. St. Francis
5. Galloway
6. Greenforest
7. SACA
8. Calvary Day
9. Whitefield Academy
10. Wesleyan
Welcome to the 2024-25 GHSA Basketball season. The landscape across Georgia has changed as we are now consolidated down into six classifications and the long-awaited split of public and private schools is here for classes 3A-1A come playoff time now giving way for more deep state playoff runs to be had by small public schools, but with that also comes the algebraic equation of deciphering power rankings, a revamped version of the system brought back by the GHSA after straying from it years ago.
Class 6A
On paper there doesn’t look to be a national juggernaut in the state’s highest classification like Grayson was last year, creating optimism for a number of teams to reach the promise land. No. 1 Norcross is on the hunt for their fifth state title and second in four seasons. The Lady Blue finished 24-6 last year bowing out in the Elite Eight to eventual champion Grayson 59-38. Norcross has a nice nucleus back and as they have over the past few seasons, have landed impact transfers to remain in the state title hunt. Region 7-7A Player of the Year Justus Fitzgerald returns for her final season, a Syracuse-commit. Norcross’ strength lies in its frontcourt, a long and athletic group featuring 5-foot-10 senior wing Cadence Peterson, 6-foot-1 senior Mariyah Valrie, 5-foot-11 senior Markiesa Lancaster along with Southwest DeKalb transfer, 6-foot-1 Jah’Naesia Spiers, a Memphis-commit that averaged 12.1 points per game. The backcourt gets a shot in the arm with the addition of 5-foot-4 sophomore point guard Tobi Owolabi who averaged 8.8 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 2.8 steals as a freshman at Mt. Pisgah. Norcross is known for their stingy defense and size inside. The length of the Lady Blue should make them one of the toughest teams to score on and rebound against. No. 2 Carrollton dug themselves an early hole in the Sweet 16 on the road at Lowndes and nearly fought out of it before ultimately falling 57-56 to close the year 24-5. All of Coach Shon Thomaston’s key pieces are back, meaning the Trojans are seasoned with toughness. 5-foot-9 point guard Daija Preston is committed to VCU while 5-foot-5 Madison Reese and 5-foot-10 Madison Swint are both Columbus State-commits. 6-foot senior wing Miyah Holmes is an X-Factor. She has D-I offers and is a mismatch that can play inside and out. 5-foot-5 junior Kimya Jones is a talented ball handler while 5-foot-8 senior Laura Mitchell-Walthall is an undersized forward that attacks rebounds and does the dirty work. 5-foot-8 sophomore Kaliyah Oliver will play a big role with her floor spacing if she is healthy, as will 5-foot-5 senior Gracie Byford who transferred over from Villa Rica after being named Second Team All-Region 5-5A. Carrollton’s aggressiveness and ability to come at you in waves defensively is what makes them so tough to beat. Avoiding significant foul trouble and scoring lulls will be key. No. 3 North Forsyth’s quest for a dream season came up short in the Class 6A State Championship game, losing to Kate Harpring and Marist 67-48 to end the season 31-1. Four title game starters return for the Raiders as they bump back into the state’s highest classification. Chattanooga-commit 6-foot-1 wing London Weaver leads the way after averaging 18.5 points and 5.9 rebounds as a junior. 5-foot-9 junior Gabbie Gliatta is coming off a sophomore campaign in which she provided 10.8 points and 2.6 steals a night. Other returning starters include 5-foot-11 senior Sophia Parks and 5-foot-3 senior Emma Rose. A pair of freshmen should make an immediate impact led by 5-foot-6 guard Ana Anzola and 5-foot-10 Leah Bryan, both capable perimeter scorers. No. 4 North Paulding, much like North Forsyth, lost in the state championship game, falling to Grayson for the 7A title 65-44 to finish 25-7. The Wolfpack graduate a significant 2024 class but top prospect 6-foot-1 senior Ava Andrews is back with a handful of D-I offers in her pocket after averaging 12.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 2.6 steals per game. 5-foot-11 forward Morgan Landrum was named Class 7A Freshman of the Year upon averaging 8.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.8 steals and 1.4 blocks per game. Fresh faces will get ample opportunity to make a difference right away, highlighted by 5-foot-5 freshman Kenzie Hinkson who already has a Jacksonville State offer thanks to her savvy playmaking. 5-foot-4 freshman Ava Dyer could see the floor due to her three-point shooting while 5-foot-4 senior Hadara King figures to be the most experience guard in the rotation. No. 5 Cherokee loses Toni Warren (Wofford) and Riley Simmons (USC Aiken) but has a bevy of talent remaining following a 24-7 Final Four finish, falling 57-54 to North Paulding. 5-foot-5 junior Madison Moody already has two All-Region seasons to her credit, a microwave scorer with deep three-point range. South Florida lacrosse-commit Alex Whitecliffe brings athleticism and experience her senior season. 5-foot-8 junior Lyla Griffith is a scrappy winning player who will see big minutes on the wing. Inside, Cherokee has a pair of blossoming bigs with Emmanuel-commit 6-foot Kaleigh Calloway and 6-foot-1 D-III prospect Abby Scott. What elevates Cherokee into the Top 10 this season is a pair of dynamic freshmen guards – 5-foot-4 Ansley Dunn and 5-foot-6 Tracy Wakefield. Dunn is an agile playmaker with the ball on a string while Wakefield is a shifty well-rounded scorer with a dangerous outside shot who comes over from Marietta. Homecourt advantage in the postseason treated No. 6 Lowndes well last season, taking a trip all the way to the Final Four before getting buzz-sawed by Grayson, 66-25 to finish 22-5. Only one significant senior graduates for the Vikettes. The backcourt will be a strength with seniors 5-foot-5 Kaci Demps (11.1 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 1.8 apg, 2.7 spg) and sharpshooting 5-foot-5 Aryana Thomas (10.4 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 2.2 apg, 1.8 spg) both of whom shot over 40% from three. 5-foot-8 junior Kayla Jackson can mix it up inside when needed, averaging 9.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 2 steals while 5-foot-9 Shamiaha Webb and 5-foot-11 junior Laila Foster will get a bulk of the frontcourt duties. No. 7 Hillgrove scheduled tough last year and weren’t ever quite able to find their footing, finishing 12-16 with a 49-41 First Round exit at Carrollton. The entire roster returns for the Hawks, a team loaded with quality guards. 5-foot-8 senior Yolanda Floyd holds offers from Presbyterian and Canisius while 5-foot-7 senior Amaya Harris touts bids from Morgan State, North Carolina Central and Bethune-Cookman. The junior class has plenty of talent as well, anchored inside by 5-foot-11 Aeris Macon. 5-foot-6 Kierra Jackson is a skilled scorer while 5-foot-7 Shelby McCall hustles and makes winning plays all over the floor. Keep an eye on sophomores Ashley Harris, Hannah Humphries and Jaela Bobb along with 5-foot-9 freshman Tori Thompson to play significant minutes throughout the season. No. 8 Buford begins life without Ava Grace Watson, who is now at Ohio State. The Wolves had an early exit (for their standards) last season, finishing 26-4 but defeated in the Elite Eight by North Paulding 74-69 in overtime. 5-foot-11 junior Lydia Ledford is primed for a breakout season as Buford’s top scoring option and already holds multiple D-I offers. 5-foot-9 sophomore E’Miah Fields showed flashes of her high upside as a freshman and will be asked to play an even bigger role in Year 2 alongside 5-foot-11 senior forward Cybele Forbes. 5-foot-11 sophomore Peyton Denmark transferred in from Apalachee where she earned All-Region honors. No. 9 Archer posted a 19-8 record, losing in the First Round at Colquitt County, 50-43. The Tigers are led by Jacksonville State-commit Mearah Whitehead and 5-foot-7 senior track star Cameron Wade, giving Archer an agile and athletic backcourt. 5-foot-8 sophomore Saniya Sharper was a Second Team All-Region 4-7A selection as a freshman. 5-foot-10 senior Kyndall Collins provides experience in the paint. No. 10 Lambert has a chance to upset the applecart in Region 6 and contend with North Forsyth if they can stay healthy and knock down shots. The Longhorns are coming off a Sweet 16 appearance, losing 83-51 to Cherokee to close the year 18-12. Clay Wages comes over from the boys side to assume the head coaching duties, doubling up for a busy year. In place is an experienced team that loves to launch threes. 5-foot-8 senior Annarose Tyre exploded this offseason and committed to West Florida. The electric perimeter scorer averaged 19 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists per game as a junior. 5-foot-9 senior Mackenzie Weyer is a long off-guard that can shoot the three while 5-foot-7 junior Parker Whipple is an emerging slasher that excels at drawing fouls. 5-foot-11 junior Molly Taylor is a stretchy forward that will be relied upon to rebound and hit mid-range jumpers. 5-foot-7 senior Olivia Brabazon moves in from King’s Ridge with D-III offers in tow. She has a lightning quick three-point release and will benefit from playing alongside Tyre in drive and kick situations.
Class 5A
After losing in improbable fashion in the Class 6A Final Four in overtime to Marist 72-69, No. 1 River Ridge returns as the favorite with unfinished business as they seek to capture their second title in three years. River Ridge finished 26-5 last season and loses just one senior, but a big one in rebounding ace Allie Sweet (9.5 ppg, 14 rpg, 1.6 bpg). The senior class is highlighted by Furman-commit Sophia Pearl (14.3 ppg, 3 rpg, 4.8 apg, 2.1 spg) and Georgia Southern-commit Kayla Cleaveland (13.9 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 2.5 apg, 1.2 spg), both players that battled through injuries early this spring. 5-foot-9 junior Makayla Roberson (12.2 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 4.1 apg, 1.3 spg) earned offers from East Tennessee State and Radford this August while 6-foot-3 sophomore Finley Parker (10.4 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 1.6 apg, 1.1 spg, 1 bpg) remains one of the top young prospects in Georgia, pulling down her most recent offers from Michigan and BYU. The return of 6-foot senior Joy Tchamabe from an ACL tear will help the Knights inside. 5-foot-9 southpaw Kyla Cantey (5 ppg, 2.3 rpg, 1.9 apg) is next in line to see a significant uptick in production her junior season as she is starting to pop up on D-I radars. A special weapon off the bench this season could be 5-foot-3 freshman Reagan Mulligan. The undersized guard is a quality athlete that can stroke the deep three off the catch and off the dribble. No. 2 Langston Hughes went 23-7 but were upset in the Elite Eight by Veterans 60-56. The Panthers have an experienced group led by 6-foot-3 Georgia Tech-commit McKayla Taylor (12.6 ppg, 12.7 rpg, 1.3 apg, 1 spg, 1.9 bpg). The double-double machine has support on the perimeter with tough athletic guards. 5-foot-6 senior Cornelia Ellington is an elusive playmaker that averaged 7.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.5 steals while 5-foot-7 Taylor Harris is a North Carolina Central-commit after posting 5.1 points, 2.3 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.6 steals a night. The junior class has guards Kylar-Rae Johnson (7.3 ppg, 5 rpg, 2.2 spg) and Karrell Greene (7.1 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 2.1 apg, 2.6 spg) that will see major minutes. Jacksonville State-commit Jasmine Baxter transferred to Luella in the offseason but the Panthers picked up one of the hottest prospects in the southeast in 6-foot-1 senior Jocelyn Faison, a First Team All-State selection and recent UGA-commit who averaged 13.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 2.6 steals and 1.6 blocks at rival New Manchester. No. 3 Morrow will contend with Langston Hughes for the Region 3 crown. The Mustangs have become competitive over night with at least six transfers over the past two seasons. They got off to a hot start last year before having to forfeit games, ending their season 13-12 with a First Round exit at the hands of Glynn Academy 63-59. 5-foot-7 junior Mikayla Dunston averaged 21.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 2.6 steals while 5-foot-8 sophomore Muzic Dace chipped in 14.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 4.4 steals as a freshman. 6-foot-2 junior Asha Rials (7.3 ppg, 10.5 rpg) and 5-foot-7 senior Oumie Jallow (6.7 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 1.1 apg, 1.3 spg) played important roles but may fall in the depth chart due to new transfers. 5-foot-8 senior guard J’Bionna Robinson was an All-Region pick last year and holds a handful of Low Major offers. 6-foot senior Poetrie Dace is a lanky high-energy wing capable of playing inside and out. New to the roster this season are 5-foot-10 senior Indigo Brown and 5-foot-7 junior Mahogany Brown who come over from Eagle’s Landing, Indigo a First Team All-Region 2-5A pick. 5-foot-9 senior Kalecia Holiday slides over from Woodland-Stockbridge where she averaged 9.9 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game while providing an outside scoring presence; Columbus State and Lander have offered. 5-foot-8 freshman Nylah Chivers is regarded as one of the best freshmen on the southside. If everyone is eligible for the entire season, Morrow looks to have one of the more talented rosters in the state. No. 4 Woodward Academy went 24-6 but lost 61-49 to North Forsyth in the Elite Eight. A strange fact about Woodward’s season was that all six losses came by double digits by an average margin of 20.2 points. The War Eagles were set to return their top five players this upcoming season, but it has been reported that Marquette-commit Kameron Herring tore her ACL over the summer, a big blow as she led the team in scoring at 15.2 points per game. Still in the fold however are seniors Kayla Whitner (13.1 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 1.8 apg, 2.6 spg) and Stony Brook-commit Delaney Cooper (9.4 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 3.1 apg, 2.6 spg, 1.7 bpg). 5-foot-7 sophomore Mackenzee Williams had an impactful first season, netting 10.9 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.9 steals per game while 5-foot-6 junior Lauryn Cooper chipped in 8.2 points, 2.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 2.4 steals. No. 5 Milton ripped off a 26-3 mark, falling in the Class 7A Elite Eight at Lowndes 61-50. The graduation of UNC Greensboro-signee Nya Smith (25.1 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 3.4 apg, 3.8 spg) leaves a massive void behind, but 5-foot-9 senior point guard Londyn Walker is coming off a season in which she averaged 12.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, 7.1 assists and 4.2 steals. 5-foot-11 junior Caroline Young continues to improve. The springy combo-forward plays bigger than her size, collecting 9.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 2 steals per game. She is capable of defending all over the floor with her length and her three-point shot is blossoming into a consistent weapon. Seniors Payton Kozina (4.9 ppg) and 6-foot-4 Chassity McCammon (3.4 ppg, 4.3 rpg) provide experience while 5-foot-8 sophomore Deyva Davis (3.8 ppg) has an exciting ceiling to strive toward as a wiry, super-athletic guard with a much-improved jump shot. Three new pieces join the mix in Alpharetta defects 5-foot-6 senior Tori Williamson and 5-foot-8 sophomore Tamia Tomlinson. 6-foot-3 senior Zana Justice is at her fourth school, coming over from SACA, bringing with her size, physicality and nice back-to-the-basket post moves. No. 6 Bradwell Institute has a legit Class 5A Player of the Year candidate in 5-foot-10 West Georgia-commit Parris Parham. The Tigers were upended in the Sweet 16 by Harris County 50-48, finishing the year 23-6. Parham contributed 19.1 points, 8.9 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 2.3 steals and 1.6 blocks per game before erupting even further on the travel ball circuit with FBC NextUp. Parris does a little bit of everything and does so with immense toughness. She should have help around her in the backcourt as 5-foot-7 senior Jordyn Rogers (10.6 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 2.6 apg, 2 spg) and 5-foot-7 junior Jamia Ousley (8 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 2.3 apg, 2.8 spg) were Region 1-5A First Team selections. Speedy quick 5-foot-2 Janiyah Blevins (5.3 ppg, 2.3 rpg, 2.7 apg, 2.9 spg) was named Region Freshman of the Year. Keep an eye on the progress of 5-foot-8 junior Ja’Nya Bush — she averaged 15 points, 2.8 rebounds, 3 assists and 5.5 steals across six games before tearing her ACL. All the pieces are in place for No. 7 Creekview to get over the hump and make some noise in the postseason. The Grizzlies managed a 15-11 record last season, missing the state playoffs. Eric Herrick takes over the job, coming from North Hall. The Grizzlies have a veteran group with a gaggle of college-bound players. A pair of Anderson-commits lead the way in 6-foot-3 center Amilya Taft (10 ppg, 9.7 rpg, 1.5 apg, 1.2 spg, 2.1 bpg) and 6-foot-1 wing Ashlynn Bleisath (9.6 ppg, 6.5 rpg, 1.9 apg, 1.1 bpg). 5-foot-5 sharpshooter Marissa Mason committed to Piedmont after averaging 6.4 points, 2.2 rebounds and 2 assists while 5-foot-7 Callie Cavender (3.7 ppg, 1.8 rpg) is heading to Oglethorpe. Maybe the most important player is 5-foot-4 junior point guard Kailyn Hamby. Her ability to play with tempo as a table setter and scorer are paramount to Creekview’s success. She averaged 8.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.4 steals. 5-foot-5 sophomore Finley Howard (7.4 ppg, 3 rpg, 2.2 apg, 2 spg) brings energy and athleticism while 5-foot-8 sophomore Lili Beal is a gritty tough-nosed role player with a knack for defense. A promising freshmen class features 5-foot-9 Brenley Matthews, 5-foot-4 Jocilyn Dagraca and coach’s daughter 5-foot-8 Kylee Herrick who shined at the Sandy’s Spiel Fall League and should see significant minutes right away. No. 8 New Manchester lost a classic in overtime at River Ridge in the Sweet 16, 71-56 to end the season 22-6. A lot has changed over the offseason due to graduation, the reinjury of Andrea Guilford and the loss of star Jocelyn Faison to Langston Hughes but the beat rolls on for the Jaguars. 5-foot-1 sophomore Devin Furgess has a chance for a breakout season after averaging 6.9 points, 2.2 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game. She is a high-level shot maker on the perimeter with deep three-point range. 5-foot-10 Clark Atlanta-commit Kyara Lawrence is the top returning scorer at 9.4 points per game while fellow seniors 6-foot Amorie Strachan and 5-foot-5 Paige Fears look to make major contributions throughout their final year. Twin 5-foot-10 freshmen Aleigha and Gabrielle Parish should see steady minutes in Year 1. They blend size, athleticism and aggression and look like future double-double threats. No. 9 Sequoyah marks the third team in from Region 6, behind No. 1 River Ridge and No. 7 Creekview. The Lady Chiefs finished 19-10, losing in the Sweet 16 to North Forsyth 45-28. Only three seniors graduate from a now experienced team. 6-foot-1 senior Milanni Abdus-Salaam (11.9 ppg, 7.5 rpg, 1.8 apg, 1.4 spg, 1.2 bpg) holds an offer from Georgia College as a skilled stretch-big that can shoot the three. 5-foot-11 sophomore Carly Bass (7.7 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 1.6 apg, 1.6 spg) picked up a Campbell offer this summer. Senior guard Ava Gray (3.4 ppg, 2 rpg, 1.9 apg, 1.1 spg) is a veteran playmaker while 5-foot-8 sophomore Addie Beck figures to make a difference with her outside shot. Freshmen 5-foot-9 Harper Cofer, 5-foot-10 Layla Davis and 6-foot-1 Leah Cheek should all vie for playing time. No. 10 Tri-Cities is a sneaky good team with boom or bust potential coming out of Region 4. The Bulldogs finished 15-12 out of a difficult Region 5-5A which housed state champion Maynard Jackson, state runner-up Midtown and Creekside who made the Sweet 16. The Bulldogs lost in the opening round of the playoffs at Jefferson 56-49 but have everyone back outside of their third leading scorer. 5-foot-3 senior Paris Shelton (11.7 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 2.5 apg, 2.2 spg), 5-foot-6 Alyssia Bandele (11.4 ppg, 8.7 rpg, 1.4 apg, 2.6 spg) and 5-foot-5 Jenai Mumphery (7.6 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 1.8 apg, 1.7 spg) round out a steady backcourt. 5-foot-11 senior Emari Benton is active inside grabbing 6.7 points, 7 rebounds, 1.6 steals and 1.4 blocks per game. The reason Tri-Cities has a chance to surprise teams this year is due to the play of 6-foot-3 senior Hannah Morris (5.5 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 1.3 bpg). Morris, who has battled with injuries throughout her career, was dominant at GBCA Live, standing out as the biggest post stock riser from the event. She played like a D-I level center and if she can carry over that productivity to the regular season, the Bulldogs could be a tough out.
Class 4A
A pair of defending state champs now call Class 4A home. No. 1 Marist has the best player in the state and will attempt to repeat as champions after finishing 30-1 with a 67-48 blow out of North Forsyth in the Class 6A state title game following five-star prospect Kate Harpring’s historic 47-point performance against River Ridge in the Final Four to rally for a 72-69 overtime victory. The War Eagles lose their veteran size inside but return three starters from their championship team including sophomore Katie Elder and senior Eloise Smith to pair with Harpring, who averaged 27.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 4 steals per game en route to being named Class 6A Player of the Year. Sophomore Zella Janki and junior Cate Prophater have some experience and should see increased roles. No. 2 Creekside has a star player of their own in 5-foot-5 sophomore C’India Dennis who was named Class 5A Player of the Year as a freshman upon averaging 24.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 4.5 steals per game, leading the Seminoles to a 20-9 season, losing at Dalton 70-60 in the Sweet 16 after finishing just 7-18 the year prior to her arrival. Creekside returns their entire roster with fellow sophomore guards Jacy Mitchell (8.9 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 2.1 apg, 1.6 spg) and Sydnee Hunter (8.9 ppg, 4 rpg, 1.7 apg, 1.8 spg) ready to contribute even more. 5-foot-10 senior Skye Cleveland (14.6 ppg, 5 rpg, 1.5 apg, 1.8 spg) has 3&D skills while juniors 5-foot-11 Kiana Harvey and 5-foot-10 Ryleigh Roberson are reliable defensive presences. No. 3 Maynard Jackson captured the Class 5A state championship, beating region rival Midtown 58-44 for the title. After competing in Region 5-5A last season, Creekside, Maynard Jackson and Midtown are all together again in Region 4-4A. Maynard Jackson posted a 29-1 mark – going a combined 6-0 against the aforementioned teams – but graduate seven players highlighted by All-State members Taliah Cornish and Shakira Gresham. 5-foot-5 junior Kennedie Cooper is back after averaging 10.6 points, 1.6 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 4.1 steals while 5-foot-4 junior Cayden Cornish chipped in 7.2 points per game. 5-foot-8 senior Aaliyah Weaver is a veteran guard that averaged 6.3 points per game while 5-foot-10 senior Journey Conley contributed 5.6 points and 4.5 rebounds a night. 6-foot-3 sophomore wing Janiyah Weaver has major talent to work with and will be featured more prominently in Year 2. No. 4 Midtown recorded a 27-6 season but went 0-4 against Maynard Jackson who toppled the Knights in the state championship 58-44. Midtown loses only two players off their roster, one being starter Briaiah Lewis (Berry). 5-foot-6 junior Devin Bockman had a breakout season, averaging 15.2 points, 3.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 2 steals. She shined in the state championship, shooting 7-11 for a game-high 23 points. 6-foot-2 junior Hailey Wortmann is quietly developing into one of the most consistent inside producers in the state, putting up 12.4 points, 8.6 rebounds and 1 block per game en route to winning Class 5A Most Improved Player. 5-foot-8 senior Sinclair Richman (11.9 ppg, 3 rpg, 1.9 apg, 1.4 spg) will be asked to knock down shots from the perimeter while 5-foot-8 senior Cate Barton (4.5 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 3.2 apg, 2.2 spg) is relied upon to wreak havoc with her hustle on defense. No. 5 Dalton will look much different from their 21-10 Final Four team which lost 73-63 to Midtown. Three starters graduate including possibly the best player in program history, Grace Ridley (North Georgia). The Catamounts have experience with seniors 5-foot-11 Jolie Wingfield and 5-foot-10 BB Bates. 5-foot-8 sophomore Wisdom Kent had a strong offseason scoring with her jump shot. Instead of their star-power coming from the interior, this year it will come from the perimeter with the addition of 5-foot-7 sophomore Aubriyana Camp from Chattanooga Christian, TN. Camp averaged 18.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 3.9 steals as a freshman and even netted 18.8 points per game as an eighth grader on varsity. No. 6 North Oconee took a trip to the Class 4A Final Four, finishing the year 22-10 with a 57-44 loss to Hardaway. 5-foot-9 Oklahoma softball-commit Kendall Wells is a powerful post presence that can dominant the paint with her strength, rebounding and scoring touch. 5-foot-8 junior Laura Frances Willis is in line to emerge as the Titans’ top scoring option as a guard that can score in bunches with her three-point shot and sneaky good off-the-dribble game. Expect it to be a scoring by committee approach beyond their top two players as 5-foot-9 sophomore Kenzie Johnson, 5-foot-6 junior Leslie Bradley and 5-foot-9 freshman Leah Pollock have all shown flashes over the spring. No. 7 Harris County graduates their leading scorer (Brooke Bass – 16.5 ppg) from their 25-4 Elite Eight team which lost to Cartersville 47-46 but have bulk of the roster still in place. 5-foot-8 senior Ja’Niya Broome averaged around 15 points per game and was a Region 3-5A First Teamer while 5-foot-5 senior Shamarri Smith filled up the box score with her hustle. Juniors 5-foot-9 Allana Coulter and 5-foot-7 Madalynn Cauley are fixtures in the frontcourt. No. 8 Cartersville got hot at the right time, running their way to the Final Four where they lost to Maynard Jackson 77-57 to close the season 18-13. Three critical seniors graduate and third-leading scorer 5-foot-8 senior Senai Camper (8.4 ppg, 6 rpg, 2.6 apg, 1.4 spg) is working her way back off a meniscus injury. The Hurricanes do return their leading scorer in 5-foot-4 junior Kaytlin Arnold (12 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 3 apg, 2.8 spg) and have impactful youth joining her with 6-foot-2 sophomore Zoie Shiflett (4.7 ppg, 6.3 rpg) and freshmen 5-foot-4 Zoe McCurry and 5-foot-9 Akira Leonard ready to contribute. No. 9 Kell was dead in the water last season at 4-10 before 6-foot wing Kennedy Deese transferred in from Mt. Paran to finish her sophomore season in style, earning Second Team All-Region 6-5A and lifting the Longhorns to a 12-15 finish with a Sweet 16 berth, losing 72-45 at Maynard Jackson. Joining the Preseason All-State selection will be 5-foot-8 Maliyah Gilbert, the Region 4-4A Freshman of the Year while at Troup County where she averaged 16 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 3.3 steals per game. 6-foot senior Sydney Moss is an experienced frontcourt member while 5-foot-7 sophomore Asiah Thompson – a Second Team All-Region member and 5-foot-7 freshman Lyric Watson are dynamic playmakers on the perimeter. No. 10 Warner Robins put together a 19-8 mark but fell in the First Round at Harris County 76-71. Three of the Demonettes’ top five players return headlined by 5-foot-10 sophomore wing Trinitee Thomas, who holds a handful of offers ranging from Mid-Major to High Major. Seniors Korveanna Slaughter and Verkesia Fuller were Second Team and Honorable Mention All-Region picks, respectively. 5-foot-7 sophomore Laila Howard-Haney has a chance to make an impact in Year 2.
Class 3A
Class 3A through Class 1A are now split come playoff time between private schools and public schools. When rankings these classifications, we will focus on just the public schools, as the privates while have their own separate Top 10. No. 1 Fayette County debuts atop the poll following a 24-5 campaign which ended in the Final Four against Class 4A State Champion Baldwin, 55-32. Six of Coach Tykira Gilbert’s top seven are back with a trio of seniors playing a big role led by 5-foot-11 New York University-commit Megan Ohonde (14.7 ppg, 7.1 rpg, 3 apg, 3.1 spg). The agile long-armed wing is surrounded by 5-foot-8 Briann Freeman (6.9 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 2.9 apg, 3.3 spg) and tenacious 5-foot-6 guard Andrea Hope (6.7 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 2.4 apg, 3.8 spg). The junior class features 5-foot-5 speed merchant Deyla McCoy (12 ppg, 1.6 rpg, 2.8 apg, 3.1 spg) and All-State selection 6-foot-2 Anaya Ferguson who was named Class 4A Most Improved player after averaging 10.9 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.7 blocks per game. 6-foot-3 sophomore Samantha Ohonde (4.1 ppg, 2.7 rpg) has terrific length and is capable of playing inside and out. The Tigers added 5-foot-9 senior wing Journy Scott from Fitzgerald, who could put Fayette County over the top as an aggressive tough-nosed two-way player that averaged 14.6 points per game down south. Defending Class 4A State Champion No. 2 Baldwin rallied to beat Hardaway 47-39 to capture their first title since a three-peat from 1986-1988 and closed the year 29-2. Six seniors graduate including Class 4A Player of the Year Madison Ruff (Mount St. Mary’s) who scored nine of her team-high 17 points in the fourth quarter of the championship. Dominant post presence 6-foot-3 senior Janaye Walker anchors the interior for the Bravettes. Class 4A Coach of the Year Kizzi Walker’s daughter averaged 13 points, 10.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 2 steals and 1.4 blocks and posted 15 points and 13 rebounds in the title game. 5-foot-10 senior Kassidy Neal (13.8 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 2.1 apg, 2 spg) excels at getting to her left-hand and is a mismatch with her inside-out skillset. 6-foot-2 sophomore Suri Clark (2.7 ppg, 3.1 rpg) could be the next big thing at Baldwin. She immediately passes the eye-test with her size, strength and athleticism. Baldwin has one of the best frontcourts in Georgia but will be relatively inexperienced in the backcourt to start the season. Interim Head Coach Quint Moss guided No. 3 White County to a Class 3A Elite Eight berth but saw a lead slip away on the road at Monroe, falling 67-64 to end the year 22-9. Steve Shedd takes over the program by way of Banks County and inherits a team loaded for an even deeper run after graduating just two key rotational pieces. 5-foot-5 senior Emma Lightsey had a breakout season, setting a school record with 114 made three-pointers (31%) en route to averaging 16.4 points and 2.7 rebounds. 6-foot-1 senior Kylie Watkins tallied 13.7 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists and shot 36.9% from beyond the arc. 5-foot-2 senior Mya Yeh (4.8 ppg) rounds out a veteran core. New to the group is coach’s daughter 5-foot-8 sophomore Ella Kate Shedd (4.2 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 2.3 apg, 2.3 spg – Banks County) and 5-foot-6 senior Jada Palumbo who averaged 8.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 3.2 steals while at Commerce. The Lady Warriors finished the summer 18-0 and have momentum rolling into the regular season. No. 4 Jefferson drops to Class 3A after recording a 25-4 record in 5A, winning Most Improved Team with a 15-win increase. The Lady Dragons were eliminated by their newfound nemesis for the second year in a row Cartersville, 66-64 in overtime in the Sweet 16. 2024-25 has been circled as Jefferson’s year to finally get over the hump and claim their first title since 2001 as a senior-laden group returns. The backcourt consists of 5-foot-4 Emeri Billings and All-Region selections 5-foot-8 Coastal Georgia-commit Skyler Brady (11.6 ppg) and 5-foot-7 Delaney DeWitt. 5-foot-7 Anni Aldridge was an Honorable Mention selection along with Billings and 5-foot-8 sophomore Karlee Law. 5-foot-10 senior Eve Knight should supply toughness in the paint after missing time last year due to an injury. The catalyst for the Dragons is 5-foot-9 sophomore Michel Robbins. The All-State guard poured in 15.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 4.8 steals per game. Jordan Shaw scoots over a seat to replace Class 3A Coach of the Year Brandon Thomas to take over the reins at No. 5 Pickens. The Nettes went 25-5 with a Sweet 16 exit at the hands of Hebron Christian 82-63. Pickens loses significant firepower but still has star guard 5-foot-10 junior Ellison Steinhauer who averaged 18.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.4 steals while netting 83 three-pointers at a 39.5% clip. 5-foot-5 senior Bella Martin is now fully healthy and ready to contribute at a high level after chipping in 6.9 points, 1.6 rebounds, 1.8 assists and shooting 15-31 (48%) from three. 5-foot-4 sophomore Reagan Ludington should emerge as a valuable ball handler after netting 3.1 points per game a season ago. No. 6 Oconee County took a trip to the Sweet 16 and finished the year 17-12 with a 46-26 loss at Wesleyan. The Warriors’ top four players return headlined by 5-foot-8 Emmanuel-commit Julie Azeltine, the Class 3A Most Improved Player who upped her scoring average to 16 points per game. Oconee County is aggressive on defense and can sometimes live and die by the three-point shot with a ton of vastly improved shooters. Sophomores 5-foot-5 Eliza Oechsle and 5-foot-9 Jill Daniel open up the floor along with 5-foot-7 junior Lydia Gay. Inside, 6-foot-2 senior Elizabeth Wynn brings length and springiness from the volleyball court while 5-foot-10 sophomore Megan Miller is tough in the paint. No. 7 Luella failed to reach the 20-win plateau for the first time since 2016-17 but still managed a Sweet 16 berth at 18-10, losing 78-59 to Holy Innocents’ in Class 4A. The Lions graduate their top two players but will be buoyed by transfers as seniors 6-foot Jacksonville State-commit Jasmine Baxter (9.2 ppg, 6 rpg, 1.3 apg, 1.7 spg, 1.4 bpg – Langston Hughes), 5-foot-10 Skye Hunter (22.8 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 2.8 apg, 4.9 spg – Creekside Christian) and 5-foot-3 Leilani Ward (Locust Grove) all move in. 5-foot-9 junior Angel Thomas (10.8 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 3 apg, 2.6 spg) and 5-foot-11 sophomore Journey Bryant (7.9 ppg) should be holdovers from last year’s group. No. 8 Calhoun had a streaky season last year but ultimately never reached their ceiling finishing 17-12 with a First Round exit in Class 5A, losing 58-46 to GAC. The Yellowjackets graduate just one senior and are in a position to have a big year with a heavy upperclassmen roster. 5-foot-5 senior Sa’Niah Dorsey is an Augusta-commit while 5-foot-11 senior Allie Duke is pledged to play at Young Harris. 5-foot-6 senior Kat Atha was a Second Team All-Region 7-5A pick and 6-foot junior Jaylan Moore was Honorable Mention. 5-foot-7 senior Ke’Asia Milliam brings experience, toughness and athleticism. No. 9 Monroe is coming off a Final Four trip and 21-10 season, the Golden Tornadoes losing 97-42 to Hebron Christian. Class 3A Freshman of the Year Kie’Aundria Acree is back for an encore performance, the 6-foot blue-chip prospect averaging 24.1 points, 11 rebounds, 6.1 assists, 4.2 steals and 2.1 blocks per game. The Power 5 prospect is flanked by 5-foot-9 sophomore Taylor McKinzy who averaged 13.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.5 steals. Coach Jennifer Acree’s daughter is the best player in the classification but the Golden Tornadoes must find a third scorer to replace Ciarra Lunsford’s production (14.1 ppg, 10.3 rpg, 3 apg, 2.8 spg) as the third returning leading scorer 5-foot-11 sophomore Glendalys Harvey averaged just 2 points and 4.2 rebounds per game. An influx of talent has poured into No. 10 Sandy Creek, the Patriots coming off a 10-15 season, losing 53-40 at Oconee County in the First Round. Incoming freshman 5-foot-8 Morghan Reckley is regarded as one of the top newcomers in the state, already with an Alabama offer in hand. She joins older sister 5-foot-7 Madison Reckley, who averaged 14.7 points, 3.1 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 2.6 steals as a freshman. Seniors 5-foot-8 Aila Person (6.3 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 2 apg, 1.6 spg) and 5-foot-7 Shayla Cox (4.9 ppg, 4.9 rpg) bring experience while the Patriots also added transfers to bolster the core with 5-foot-8 senior Kyva Holloway (7.8 ppg, 4.8 rpg), a Third Team All-Region 4-4A selection at Trinity Christian and 5-foot-9 junior Da’Maris Shields (5 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 1.5 spg) from Calvary Day.
Class 2A
No. 1 Josey opens as the team to beat coming off a 28-4 season which ended in the state championship, losing to Mt. Paran 59-52. The Eagles and the rest of the classification no longer have to worry about private school powers as Josey will now try to assert themselves as the bully on the block. Coach Nichelle Chapman returns her top four contributors between 5-foot-7 junior Kerri Fluellen (13 ppg), 5-foot-10 senior Shaniya Sanders (12.9 ppg), 5-foot-5 senior Keasia Henderson (12.2 ppg) and 6-foot-1 junior Za’Miyah Jenkins (10.8 ppg). Fluellen is a burgeoning star who showcased her mettle on the big stage with 20 points in the state championship and now holds an offer from New Orleans. Sanders is a streaky three-point shooter and strong rebounder, Henderson is a steady distributor and Jenkins is a defensive ace that vacuums rebounds and blocks shots. 5-foot-6 sophomore Nikayle Serrano (13.5 ppg) transfers in from Glenn Hills while 5-foot-9 junior Montana Jenkins comes from North Augusta, SC. Whoever makes it out of Region 4 will be battle-tested as Josey will have to contend with No. 4 Thomson and No. 5 Butler. No. 2 Hardaway had the Class 4A state championship within their grasp but saw a 27-11 third quarter lead over Baldwin slip away, ending their season 27-5 with a 47-39 defeat. The Hawks graduate just two seniors and should be even more motivated to seal the deal behind a potent senior class. 5-foot-11 wing Mikayla Johnson is a New Orleans-commit that averaged 18.1 points, 5 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 2.4 steals. 6-foot-2 lefty Akilah Shelton committed to Hampton after posting 13.9 points, 7 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 3.5 steals and 2.3 blocks. 5-foot-9 senior Jenaiya Hardy (6.6 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 2 apg, 2.4 spg) plays bigger than her size while 5-foot-8 senior Adazha Burrell (6 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 6.3 apg, 2.6 spg) has a knack for filling up the box score as the team’s primary ball handler. The sophomore class has talent with 6-footer Rhianna Boynton (4.6 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 1.9 bpg) capable of defending all over the floor with her length and athleticism while Jaylah Todd should see important minutes in the backcourt upon her return after tearing her ACL two games into the season as a freshman. No. 3 Murray County pushed their way to the Final Four for the first time since 1966 at 24-7, losing to eventual state champion Mt. Paran 72-44. Much of the Indian nucleus returns led by Class 2A Freshman of the Year 5-foot-8 wing Miley McClure and Class 2A Most Underrated 5-foot-8 junior Callan Ledford, now a Preseason All-State selection. 5-foot-11 senior Bayleigh Winkler is one of the best low block scorers in North Georgia, capable of finishing with both hands. The addition of 5-foot-5 freshman Blaklee Ledford could be the difference for Murray County this season. The point guard projects to be one of the most impactful rookies in Georgia with her aggressiveness, savvy ball handling, court vision and scoring punch. She earned rave reviews at GBCA Live and posted 18 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists and 4 steals in a rout of Lambert, netting four threes. No. 4 Thomson was upset in the First Round at Sumter County, 51-41 to close the season 22-5. Everyone is set to return for the Bulldogs led by 6-foot wing Jada Kendrick (18.3 ppg, 8.7 rpg, 2.4 apg, 4 spg, 1.1 bpg) who will decide between Georgia State, Austin Peay, Howard, William & Mary, Georgia Southern and Northern Kentucky on November 16. The do-everything All-State star is flanked by 5-foot-8 senior Ty’leishiah Latimore (14 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 1.7 apg, 5.3 spg), 5-foot-4 junior Paris Rosser (7.4 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 4.3 apg, 4.5 spg) and 5-foot-7 junior Dalysa Gilmore (7.1 ppg, 6 rpg, 1 apg, 2.2 spg). No. 5 Butler marks the third team from Region 4 to crowd the Top 5. The Bulldogs went 21-10, losing at home in the Elite Eight to Murray County 52-49. 5-foot-9 senior Brayla Harris returns after averaging 18.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 3.2 steals per game. 5-foot-3 junior Paris Floyd (7.3 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 1.9 apg, 2.8 spg) and 5-foot-8 senior Taylor Kelly (5.4 ppg, 4.3 rpg) are significant contributors. The ceiling of Butler will likely be determined by the availability of 6-foot senior guard Rania Curry. Curry appeared in just one game last year before a season-ending knee injury. The D-I talent posted 13 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks in Butler’s season-opening win against Newton. No. 6 Carver-Columbus might be in the midst of a rebuilding year to get back to where they once were but the Tigers’ style of play always makes them dangerous. Carver finished 23-7 with a trip to the Class 3A Final Four where they lost to Wesleyan 71-57. Coach Anson Hundley graduates his top two leading scorers taking over 33 points per game between them. Seniors 5-foot-6 Camryn Thomas (8.6 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 1.9 apg, 3.8 spg) and 5-foot-4 Kayden Cooper (6.9 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 1.2 apg, 1.9 spg) will be tasked with handling the ball and scoring the bulk of the points. No. 7 Morgan County has been on a steady rise under Coach Milfred Franklin, taking a trip to the Class 3A Elite Eight at 18-13, losing 75-28 to Hebron Christian. 5-foot-8 Emmanuel-commit Jaden Young has elevated her play each and every season and is coming off a campaign in which she posted 12.3 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 2.1 steals per game. 5-foot-8 junior Cydney Burke (8 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 1.3 spg) and 5-foot-8 senior Kymora Smith (7.3 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 2.6 apg, 2.4 spg) have a strong chemistry with Young. New to the team is 5-foot-6 senior Dakota Brickell who transfers in from Central Burden, KS. She provides quickness, perimeter shooting and another important ball handler. No. 8 Coahulla Creek is tough to beat when they are sharing the ball and knocking down threes. The Colts finished 18-9, losing in the First Round of the Class 3A State Tournament at Pickens 71-46. 5-foot-9 senior Aubree Langley is a stretch-forward who rebounds in traffic and can shoot the three. An experienced backcourt features 5-foot-3 senior Lilah Brooker, 5-foot-7 senior Caroline Reed, 5-foot-5 senior Karis Hurt, 5-foot-7 junior Presley Denton and 5-foot-8 sophomore Kayden Stuckey. No. 9 Columbia graduates their top two scorers from last season’s 24-6 group that made it to the Elite Eight where they were eliminated by Central-Macon 44-37. 5-foot-11 junior Kendall Campbell averaged 10.6 points, 6.6 rebounds and 2 steals while 6-foot-1 senior Aalon Turner posted 10.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 2.6 steals. 5-foot-4 senior point guard Kerserlin Anderson (8.7 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 2.9 apg, 3.8 spg) has experience initiating the offense and will have a new target to feed in 5-foot-7 senior Londyn Durden, a Southwest DeKalb transfer. No. 10 Sumter County marks the third team from Region 1 to make the Top 10 behind No. 2 Hardaway and No. 6 Carver-Columbus. The Panthers went 20-9 with a Sweet 16 appearance, losing 51-24 to Central-Macon. 5-foot-9 Longwood-commit Jesstynie Scott is the straw that stirs the drink. Prior to Scott transferring to Americus, the Panthers recorded a 5-20 record. Scott willed Sumter County to a Region 1 regular season championship and earned the team Class 2A Most Improved Team as she racked up 15.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 5 steals per game. Her top two running mates are 5-foot-1 senior D’Eria Clark, a volume shooter that netted 8.4 points per game and 5-foot-6 senior J’Niyah Edwards (4.8 ppg, 5 rpg).
Class A D-I
Class A D-I will no longer be dominated by private schools meaning there is ample opportunity for history to be made for programs that aren’t traditionally known for making consistent deep runs. One team that has been knocking on the door for quite some time however is No. 1 Central-Macon. The Lady Chargers aren’t as dynamic in the backcourt as they were last year, finishing 26-5 with a 45-38 loss to Josey in the Class 2A Final Four, but Central-Macon is still tough up front and is anchored by their defense. Even with five key seniors gone, the Lady Chargers return two Region 2-2A First Teamers in seniors 6-foot-1 Jazlyn Johnson, a Preseason All-State selection and 5-foot-9 rebounding machine Frances Anyakudo, both holding offers from Alcorn State. 5-foot-8 sophomore Cha’Miyah Montgomery was an All-Region Honorable Mention pick. 5-foot-6 sophomore Kacie Reeves and freshmen 5-foot-8 Caylin Mathis and 5-foot-9 Myree Simmons figure to play big roles in a Region 2 which features three ranked teams between No. 3 Dodge County and No. 9 Washington County with quarterfinalist East Laurens hovering just outside the Top 10. No. 2 Fannin County posted a 19-10 record and lost in the Class 2A Sweet 16 to Columbia 69-35. All-Time Leading Scorer Courtney Davis (Young Harris) has graduated but the early returns have been positive as the Lady Rebels went 7-0 to win the Sandy’s Spiel Fall League, anchored by League MVP 6-foot junior Reese Lewis who averaged 15.4 points, 8.1 rebounds and 2 steals per game. 5-foot-5 sophomore Izzie Jabaley looks like the next star point guard to come out of Fannin County, a tough, crafty playmaker with a strong frame. 5-foot-4 junior guard Maggie Ledford will round out the backcourt. No. 3 Dodge County struggled mightily at GBCA Live but are coming off a 23-5 season which concluded in the Class 2A Elite Eight, losing 86-55 to Mt. Paran. Only two seniors graduate for the Squaws who are carried inside by 6-foot senior Lyric Green, a D-I prospect that overpowered opponents with 22.2 points, 16 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game. 5-foot-10 sophomore Paige Ingram added 9 points and 5.4 rebounds while 5-foot-4 senior Autumn Rhodes chipped in 8.9 points a night. As it has the past few years, Dodge County’s ceiling will be determined by their guard play. The Squaws struggled to advance the ball up the court against pressure in June and are in trouble when they are unable to force live-ball turnovers and punch the ball inside to Green in the halfcourt. No. 4 Temple is a dark horse to make a substantial run after going 16-12 with a Sweet 16 berth, eliminated at Swainsboro 64-43. 5-foot-11 USC Aiken-commit Mackenna Nix is likely the best player in school history with a career average of 19.5 points and 11 rebounds per game and is coming off a junior season in which she dumped in 20.1 points, 11.3 rebounds and 3 steals. While Nix is asked to do a lot, even help break the press, her supporting cast has improved each season. 5-foot-7 senior Carlie Bagwell was an All-Region 4 First Teamer while 5-foot-8 senior forward Janiyah Walker, a rebounding machine and 5-foot-4 junior sparkplug Anah Howell were Second Team selections. Coach Jake Shirley has exciting youth that should provide a lift between 5-foot-10 sophomore Hailey Davis, a long active athlete inside and 5-foot-4 freshman Kehonia Parham who brings speed on the perimeter. Right behind Temple in Region 6 is No. 5 Model. The Lady Blue Devils went 23-6 in Class 2A, losing in the Sweet 16 at Banks County 43-29. Coach Sally Echols loses two All-Region guards but has a strong core back between Region 7-2A First Teamers 5-foot-5 sophomore Javia Samples and 6-foot senior Sadie Raughton, a premier stretch-forward that is deadly from distance. 5-foot-11 junior Eva Poyner was an Honorable Mention pick and 5-foot-11 senior August Betz is a springy lefty with good hands. No. 6 Lamar County enters the year coming off a 24-6 season which ended in the Elite Eight, beat 57-42 by Athens Christian. The Trojans must replace star guard Shakiria Foster (27.1 ppg) who signed to play at North Carolina Central. Expect the youth of Lamar County to carry the Trojans this year between high-energy slasher 5-foot-6 sophomore Makayla Watts (6.1 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 2.1 apg, 2 spg), back-to-the-basket scorer 5-foot-11 sophomore Ella Bleu Leverett (5.5 ppg, 4.7 rpg) and high-upside forward 6-foot freshman Ja’Ziyah Foster. No. 7 Banks County went 25-5 with a 65-48 loss in the Elite Eight to Josey. Steve Shedd departs for White County as Jason Gibson takes over the program after serving time as Athletic Director at Rabun County but previously coached at Jefferson. The Leopards have a mixture of new faces and old faces with 5-foot-9 senior twins Reese Murphy (11.4 ppg, 6.2 rpg, 1.8 apg, 2 spg) and Ryleigh Murphy (11.2 ppg, 1.7 rpg, 1.7 apg, 2.1 spg) leading the way. 5-foot-8 senior Emmie Chitwood (3.3 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1.3 spg) and 6-foot sophomore Marleigh Dale (2 ppg, 2.4 rpg) will see expanded roles. New to the program are coach’s daughter 5-foot-9 freshman Janakate Gibson who follows her dad from Rabun County, 5-foot-6 junior Ansley Moore, a feisty All-Region pick while at Athens Christian and 5-foot-10 freshman Maecee Crumley from Stephens County. No. 8 Rabun County must replace two D-I guards between Lucy Hood (ETSU) and Ellie Southards (Presbyterian). The LadyCats posted a 24-7 mark, losing in the Final Four to Galloway 60-45. The talented sophomore tandem of 5-foot-5 Adelyn Thompson and 5-foot-5 Addybeth Owens must balance playmaking with scoring and step into leadership roles alongside Emmanuel softball-commit Jacie McCall who has become a much improved three-point shooter. No. 9 Washington County is locked into a 10-team gauntlet in Region 2, but should already be battle-tested as last year they escaped the juggernaut Region 4-2A CSRA region with a state playoff berth before falling in the First Round at Dodge County 56-40, closing the year 17-13. The Golden Hawks are set to return their top four players with a strong core of 5-foot-6 sophomore Jade Kitchens (11.9 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 4.1 apg, 3.5 spg), 5-foot-4 senior Makayla Dunn (7.6 ppg), senior Emmya Gamble (7.4 ppg, 5.6 rpg) and sophomore Aeria Hagans (7 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 1.5 apg, 2.1 spg). No. 10 Elbert County is the third team from Region 8 to fill out the final four slots of the poll joining No. 7 Banks County and No. 8 Rabun County. The Blue Devils finished just 8-22 last year, but had the shocker of the tournament, upsetting 23-win Oglethorpe County in the First Round before losing to Galloway in the Sweet 16 62-33 after a valiant first half effort. Elbert County goes from an inexperienced team to a group with key pieces in place that have played in big games. 5-foot-9 sophomore Audrey Lunsford was an All-Region selection as a freshman while 5-foot-10 junior Zy Belcher was an Honorable Mention pick. The addition of 5-foot-6 junior Sarah Blackmon from Madison County will be a big help, a Second Team All-Region 8-4A nod who stretches the defense with her three-point shooting.
Class A D-II
On the hunt for their first-ever state title, No. 1 Wilcox County looks like the team to beat coming off a 27-3 season with a loss to eventual champion Greenforest 57-42 in the Elite Eight. Five of Coach Santita Coon’s top six players return, anchored by 5-foot-11 reigning Class A D-II Freshman of the Year Tyliah Benjamin, an All-State pick that averaged 11.3 points, 12.3 rebounds, 2 steals and 2 blocks. Surrounding Benjamin are a plethora of quick guards that share the ball and can hit the open jumper. 5-foot-7 sophomore Shamauri Martin (10 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 2.3 apg, 3.2 spg), 5-foot-5 junior Zariah Martin (9.4 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 3.5 apg, 4.5 spg) and 5-foot-5 sophomore Kamauri Martin (6 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 2.1 apg, 2.7 spg) are all pesky two-way players while 5-foot-7 senior Carly Miller (4.4 ppg) is the team’s best three-point shooter (20-60; 33%). No. 2 Taylor County posted a 27-4 record, losing in the Final Four to Greenforest 64-35. All-State selection 5-foot-10 senior Jaydah Ford (15.5 ppg, 8 rpg) is relentless when crashing the glass. 5-foot-8 junior Alasia Montgomery has a nice skillset and is capable of filling up the box score around her 10.5 points per game. Graduating Trista Bennett and losing Da’Laila Lowe (10.3 ppg) to Stratford Academy hurts, meaning others will have to step up, especially in the backcourt. 5-foot-9 senior Jordan Towns (6 ppg) is an important piece inside the arc. No. 3 Seminole County lost 64-38 in the Elite Eight to Taylor County, ending the season 23-7. Stuck in a difficult 15-team Region 1, the Indians will once again try to crawl out of the grouping with the one-seed as only their second leading scorer graduates. 5-foot-8 senior Zyi’Kiera King is an All-State selection that averaged 13.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 2.1 steals per game. Seniors Equeasha Daniels (9.6 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 3 apg, 3.1 spg) and 5-foot-9 Tiara Henry (8 ppg, 7 rpg, 1.7 spg) round out Coach Brandon Ingram’s core. No. 4 Early County is the second team out of Region 1 in the Top 10. The Bobcats finished 22-7, losing in the Sweet 16 to State Runner-Up Montogomery County 58-43. 5-foot-11 senior Jacorra Russell is an All-State selection, a hyper athletic wiry combo-forward that put up 21.6 points, 7.3 rebounds and 4.8 steals per game. 5-foot-11 senior Nakevia Brown (6.7 ppg, 3.7 rpg) and 5-foot-7 junior Ty’jerrica Russell (4.2 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 3.3 apg, 2.6 spg) round out a supporting cast that needs a second scoring option to step up and take the burden off Russell. No. 5 Clinch County went 21-5 and bowed out in the Final Four, defeated 61-57 by Montgomery County. Juniors power the Panthers. 5-foot-10 Amariah Dean is an explosive lefty with All-State production. Expect the offense to fully run through her now that Tyana Dorsey has graduated. Jhi’Nerial Mingo and Destiny Tolbert provide support in the backcourt. No. 6 Warren County pieced together a 20-7 record, buzz-sawed by Greenforest in the Sweet 16, 71-46. The Screaming Devils have one of the best backcourt duos in the classification between All-Staters 5-foot-4 junior Courtney Bray (19.2 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 1.6 apg, 3.6 spg) and 5-foot-7 junior Jailee Allen (16 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 2.3 apg, 3.3 spg). Finding help around the two will be imperative as Warren County graduates their third, fourth and fifth leading scorers. No. 7 Atkinson County is another team with a pair of electric guards. The Rebels were last year’s Most Improved Team improving from 4-22 to 19-10 with a Sweet 16 berth, losing 51-43 at Seminole County. 5-foot-6 sophomore Ja’Kari Northcutt immediately changed the fortunes of the program, the All-State guard pumping in 19.1 points per game as a freshman. 5-foot-4 junior Kamari Moore helps balance the attack tacking on 14.6 points per night. No. 8 Macon County was bounced in the First Round by Christian Heritage 57-50, closing the season 18-10. The Bulldogs are set to return their top four players led by 5-foot-11 junior Morgan Cochran (13 ppg, 9.3 rpg, 2.8 apg, 2.5 spg, 1.8 bpg). 5-foot-4 junior Aliyah Lake (11.2 ppg, 2.8 rpg) and 5-foot-3 sophomore Aniah Lake (7.7 ppg) help out on the perimeter along with 5-foot-6 senior Towanna Cochran (6.1 ppg). No. 9 Bryan County went 26-4 in Class A D-I, losing at Rabun County in the Elite Eight 71-45. Coach Mario Mincey must replace the production of star guard Kayley Wedlow (17.3 ppg, 6 rpg, 3.6 apg, 3.2 spg) but does have an All-State player returning in 5-foot-8 senior Ashanti Brown, a relentless rebounder that collected 13.9 points, 12.5 rebounds, 1.5 steals and 1.9 blocks per game. In fact, outside of losing their top scorer, the Redskins are slated to return players 2-7. 5-foot-3 junior Jasmine Mikell (9.7 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 3.7 apg, 3 spg) figures to step up as Bryan County’s top guard. No. 10 Terrell County fills out the rankings as the third team from Region 1. The Greenwave went 19-8 and lost 52-50 in the First Round at Wilcox County. Four of Terrell County’s top six players graduate including their leading scorer Tadreuna Rogers (10.3 ppg), leaving senior Jentaiya Rushing (8.6 ppg) and sophomore Jada Rushing (6.3 ppg) as the team’s top options. Sophomore guard Khloe Brown (4.8 ppg) could play a huge role in Year 2.
Class 3A-1A Private
Some of the best programs in the state now have a level playing field as they vie for just one state title – the toughest it has ever been to win a championship as a private school. Even with the loaded field, No. 1 Hebron Christian opens as the heavy favorite, a national powerhouse with everyone back. The Lions nearly fumbled away the Class 3A state title last season, but survived a furious Wesleyan comeback 62-60 to repeat and went on to win a pair of games in a national tournament to end the year 32-2. Four players earned Preseason All-State honors in Class 2A including seniors 5-foot-10 Aubrey Beckham (UGA), 6-foot-1 Ja’kerra Butler (Auburn) and 6-foot-1 Danielle Osho who is deciding between Georgia Tech, Auburn, Pittsburgh, Mississippi State, Miami and Vanderbilt. 5-foot-5 senior Mia James is committed to George Washington while 6-foot-1 junior Gabby Minus is a Veterans transfer who holds High Major offers from all over the nation and is an All-State selection. No. 2 Holy Innocents’ hasn’t won a state title since repeating in 2019 and 2020. The Golden Bears finished 24-7, losing in the Class 4A Elite Eight at Hardaway 59-53. Now in Class 2A, 5-foot-10 Stanford-commit Hailee Swain leads a young but uber-talented cast which features serious size with Preseason All-State pick 6-foot-2 sophomore Nakhai Worthy and freshmen 6-foot-2 Loriel Murray and 6-foot-5 Aaniyah Branch. On the perimeter, 5-foot-11 junior Elana McMasters is a well-rounded scorer while sisters 5-foot-3 sophomore Makayla Weaver and 5-foot-1 freshman Makenzie Weaver are swift playmakers. No. 3 Mt. Paran has won three consecutive state titles, their most recent coming in Class 2A by beating Josey 59-52 to finish 29-3. The Eagles drop to Class A D-I and must contend with ranked Region 5 opponents No. 4 St. Francis, No. 5 Galloway, No. 9 Whitefield Academy and No. 10 Wesleyan – five total teams in the Top 10. Graduating Class 2A Player of the Year Ciara Alexander (20 ppg, 8 rpg – Campbell) is a serious blow, but the big three of 6-foot-2 Michigan-commit Jessica Fields, 5-foot-6 Jacalyn Myrthil and 5-foot-6 Kitali Youmans has never ended their season with a loss since all making impacts their freshman year. 5-foot-7 senior Isabella Ramirez has battled through injuries but the sharpshooter is now healthy and has committed to Berry. Seniors 5-foot-9 Jada Harvey and 5-foot-6 McKinley Brothers don’t do much scoring but help out with the dirty work. 5-foot-10 Tyce Binion and 5-foot-6 Kennedy Smith represent the future as incoming freshmen. No. 4 St. Francis repeated as Class A D-I State Champions, outlasting Galloway in overtime 74-71 to finish 24-7. 5-foot-9 Freshman of the Year Giaunni Rogers (13.6 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 2.7 apg, 1.6 spg), 5-foot-5 junior Camryn Golston (11.6 ppg, 2.3 rpg, 3.7 apg, 1.7 spg) and 5-foot-5 senior Desi Taylor (5.3 ppg, 1.8 rpg, 2.9 apg) round out a quick and experienced backcourt. The interior will be anchored by 6-foot-1 William & Mary-commit Amelia Basit (5.8 ppg, 5.7 rpg) with former Class A D-I Player of the Year SaMya Wyatt (15.8 ppg, 7.3 rpg) now at Austin Peay and 6-foot-3 sophomore Aila Courtenay (8.3 ppg, 7 rpg) working her way back from an ACL tear. 5-foot-11 sophomore Adison Branch should help the Knights upon moving over from Marietta. No. 5 Galloway lost to St. Francis in heartbreaking fashion in the Class A D-I State Championship for a second consecutive season, losing 74-71 in overtime to close their campaign 19-11. Reigning Class A D-I Player of the Year Tianna Thompson is now at Georgia Tech, but younger sister 5-foot-8 junior Taryn Thompson is starting to come into her own after averaging 17 points, 5 assists and 2 steals. 6-foot rebounding specialist Danaya Stokes is committed to Texas A&M-Corpus Christi while 6-foot sophomore Sophia Louis-Pierre is a burgeoning star with a knack for making plays on both ends. The Scots revamped their roster to assist their top three, adding 5-foot-9 junior Coco Rudolph (Central Gwinnett) a Preseason First Team All-State selection, 5-foot-9 sophomore Libby Knott (Atlanta Girls School), 5-foot-7 junior Ava Andrews (North Atlanta) and 5-foot-9 freshman Keris Collins (Marietta). No. 6 Greenforest easily steamrolled tiny hometown public schools with their international roster on their way to the Class A D-II State Championship, pulling away from Montgomery County 39-28 to put a capper on a 27-5 year. The Eagles move up to Class A D-I and return Region 7 A D-II Player of the Year 6-foot-1 senior Milica Lazarevic along with First Teamer 5-foot-11 senior Lana Koricanac and Second Teamer 6-foot-4 senior Andela Mirkovic. 6-foot-4 senior Marianah Achol has emerged over the offseason as a game-changing interior presence while 5-foot-11 senior Fortunate Emechete is a tough guard and 6-foot-2 senior Asunta Ring is another towering post. The Eagles have a true point guard this year with the addition of 5-foot senior Janiya McCoy (2.9 apg, 4.1 spg) from Southwest DeKalb along with her sister 5-foot-2 freshman Janise McCoy. No. 7 Southwest Atlanta Christian had to forfeit the season after bringing in an AAU roster full of undue influence players and had to join a pop-up team called New Horizons Prep Academy to play games, but the Warriors should still be strong if everyone is eligible this season. If they are all still in place, holdovers from last season’s transfer spree include seniors 5-foot-11 Nicora Patrick, 5-foot-11 Auburn-commit Sasha Joseph, 5-foot-8 Aimee Campbell and 5-foot-4 junior Amy Ramos. SACA was on a collision course with Greenforest for the Class A D-II title last year and now find themselves in the same region in Class A D-I, Region 4. No. 8 Calvary Day went 21-6, losing in the Class 3A Sweet 16 to Morgan County 46-37. Coach Daniel Jackson returns eight of his top nine players highlighted by Region 3-3A Player of the Year 5-foot-6 senior Destini Gooddine (17.6 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 1.8 apg, 3.3 spg). Joining her is a veteran cast between fellow seniors 5-foot-7 Bre Jones (12.7 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 4 apg, 3 spg) and 5-foot-10 Zora Geiger (12 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 1.3 apg, 1.7 spg). Stepping into a big role will be 5-foot-11 freshman Janiyah Johnson, a strong athletic interior presence. No. 9 Whitefield Academy finished just 1-12 last year, but the Wolfpack are starting to accumulate talent. 5-foot-6 junior Emahni Chambliss averaged 25.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2 assists and 2.8 steals per game at Chapel Hill. 5-foot-10 big guard Amelia Newman comes over from the Langston Hughes district while 5-foot-5 playmaker Hailey Houlder moves in from Grayson, both highly touted freshmen, Newman already with an offer from Yale. There will be growing pains with such a young team in a devastatingly tough region, but there is no denying the individual talent Whitefield Academy has in the backcourt. No. 10 Wesleyan almost upset Hebron Christian in the Class 3A State Championship, but fell short 62-60 to end the year 27-4. They now find themselves in Region 5 A D-I with little room for error. 6-foot-1 senior Johanna Potter (Stony Brook) will now become a focal point for the offense upon graduating Class 3A Player of the Year Chit-Chat Wright (Georgia Tech) and Bryanna Preston (Texas). 5-foot-10 sophomore Grace McLeod had some nice moments with her physicality and skill in the paint last season. 5-foot-6 junior Kinsey Harper transfers in from Johns Creek where she netted 65 threes and averaged close to 15 points per game.