The air is crisp, leaves are falling, and football playoff chatter is in full swing. These are all signs that it’s nearly time to step onto the hardwood! We here in the two Virginias have a rich basketball history of great programs, coaches, and players. In this article, we highlight the top five boys’ and girls’ basketball standouts in Southern West Virginia. In upcoming articles, we’ll do the same for players in Southwest Virginia.
With so much talent in the area, this was a daunting task for our small staff. To ensure a comprehensive list, we received input from legendary coaches, players, officials, and fans.
Here’s “The Big Wagu’s Watchlist”:
Boys’ Players
1. Jase Smith
Junior, Bluefield High School
Height: 6’3” | Weight: 157 lbs.
Jase is a legitimate Division I prospect. He has impressive hops, deep shooting range, and basketball in his DNA. His sister, Jasiah Smith, was a standout at Concord, and his father, Jimal Smith, played at the collegiate level. Jase is the real deal!
2. Britt Beasley
Senior, Princeton Senior High School
Height: 6’0” | Weight: 170 lbs. | AAU Team: Triple Threat Shockers
Known as “BB3,” Britt underwent a rigorous nutrition and workout regimen that rivals those of professional athletes. Princeton’s success will hinge on this shifty guard’s performance.
3. Khi Olson
Senior, Shady Spring High School
Khi is a state champion and the son of premier coach Ronnie Olson. Expectations are high for him to have a standout year.
4. Elijah Hall
Junior, Pikeview High School
Height: 6’0” | Weight: 197 lbs.
Elijah plays bigger than his stature. He’s dependable, a strong finisher, and every coach’s dream player.
5. MJ Patton
Summit Christian Academy | AAU Team: Triple Threat Shockers
MJ is known for his humility, coachability, and being a strong team player.
Girls’ Players (In No Particular Order)
1. Riley Meadows
Senior, Pikeview High School
Riley, an All-State player, faces the challenge of losing three four-year starters and her head coach, Tracy Raban. Still, she has the skills and leadership to push her team to another successful season.
2. Maggie Boroski
Senior, James Monroe High School
AAU Team: WV Legacy
Maggie is a lockdown defender, a true finisher around the rim, and a tenacious competitor on the court.
3. Cadee Blackburn
Senior, Wyoming East High School
Cadee is confident, has deep shooting range, and is elusive. Defenders have to guard her constantly, as she can score from anywhere.
4. Abby Persinger
Senior, Summers County High School
Abby is a strong post player who excels at grabbing rebounds and scoring around the basket.
5. Harmony Mills
Junior, Independence High School
AAU Team: WV Legacy
Harmony is a dependable scorer with solid ball-handling skills. Many expect this junior to have a breakout year.
If you know of a player who deserves recognition on “The Big Wagu’s Watchlist,” contact “Fresh Off The Clock” with verifiable stats, highlights, or other information.
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