Kaleena Smith Leads the Nation’s Top Sophomore All-America Teams
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Our exploration of the top talents in high school basketball for the 2024-25 season continues with the announcement of the Sophomore All-America Team, led by National Sophomore of the Year, Kaleena Smith from Ontario Christian (Ontario, Calif.).
Smith, who earned the title of National Freshman of the Year last season, displayed remarkable growth this year, avoiding any signs of a sophomore lull.
The five-star guard was instrumental in guiding Ontario Christian to an impressive 30-2 record, clinching the Southern Section Open Division championship and securing a No. 5 ranking in the Top 25.
Smith posted averages of 23.2 points, 8.1 assists, 4.5 steals, and 2.8 rebounds while her team held the top spot in the nation for much of the year.
Although her scoring fell from an astounding 34.9 points per game as a freshman, Smith’s contribution as a playmaker rose significantly, as she prioritized team success and aided the development of talented freshmen like Tati Griffin and Sydney Douglas, raising her assists average by 1.6 per game.
Smith’s leadership is part of a broader group of 30 players from the Class of 2027 who made notable impacts on their respective teams this season.
Selection for this team is based on team achievements, individual performance, and earned honors at local, regional, and state levels from the recently concluded season. Potential for collegiate or professional play is not the main factor in these selections, and players involved in post-graduate or non-scholastic programs are not eligible.
2024-25 Girls Basketball: Sophomore All-America Team
First Team
Haylen Ayers, University School of Jackson (Jackson, Tenn.)
6-0 | Guard
This Division II Class A Miss Basketball averaged 21.8 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game as the Bruins achieved a record of 24-4 and made it to the state semifinals.
Micah Ojo, Princess Anne (Virginia Beach, Va.)
6-0 | Small Forward
Averaged 18.0 points, 8.1 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 4.0 steals per game while leading the Cavaliers to an undefeated 28-0 season and the Class 5A championship.
Jordyn Palmer, Westtown (West Chester, Pa.)
6-1 | Forward
Recorded averages of 21.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 3.1 blocks, and 2.6 steals in guiding the Moose to a 27-3 record and a fourth consecutive Pennsylvania Independent Schools Athletic Association title.
NATIONAL SOPHOMORE OF THE YEAR: Kaleena Smith, Ontario Christian (Ontario, Calif.)
5-6 | Point guard
As the top-ranked player in her class, Smith averaged 23.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.5 steals per game, leading the Knights to a 30-2 record and a No. 5 ranking after spending much time at the top of the Top 25.
Ivanna Wilson-Manyacka, Bullis (Potomac, Md.)
6-2 | Guard
The No. 2 prospect in the sophomore class put up 18.5 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 2.3 steals per game, contributing to the Bulldogs’ 25-8 record and a state semifinal showing.
Second Team
Kie’Aundria Acree, Monroe (Albany, Ga.)
5-11 | Guard
She made an impact by averaging 31.1 points, 15.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 4.0 steals, and 3.7 blocks per game for the Class AAA quarterfinalists, hitting the milestone of 1,000 career points this season.
Jezelle Banks, Ursuline Academy (Wilmington, Del.)
5-8 | Guard
As the Raiders made it to the state semifinal, Banks recorded averages of 21.7 points, 4.8 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.1 steals each game.
C’india Dennis, Creekside (Fairburn, Ga.)
5-4 | Point guard
Averaged 20.9 points, 6.0 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 3.8 steals as the Seminoles went a perfect 32-0, claiming the AAAA state championship. She had standout performances with 30 points in the semifinal and 22 points in the final.
Crowned MVP of the state tournament, Samuels averaged 14.6 points and 4.0 rebounds while leading her team to a No. 3 finish in the final Top 25, impressive with her 30-point effort where she shot 8 of 10 from beyond the arc during the state title game.
Nation Williams, Centennial (Las Vegas, Nev.)
6-2 | Post
This Class 5A MVP played a key role in the Bulldogs’ state title victory, averaging 17.3 points, 10.4 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 2.8 steals, and 2.1 blocks each game.
Third Team
Caroline Bradley, Oak Grove (Oak Grove, La.)
6-5 | Center
Bradley averaged 21.8 points and 15.1 rebounds as the Tigers achieved a 21-4 record and advanced to the Division III Non-Select state final.
Lauren Hassell, Clarksville Christian (Clarksville, Tenn.)
6-3 | Forward
She contributed averages of 18.9 points, 10.3 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 2.4 steals per game while exceeding 2,000 career points.
NyAir McCoy, Bishop McNamara
5-4 | Point guard
McCoy stepped into a crucial role for the Mustangs, averaging 7.8 points, 5.7 steals, and 5.0 assists per game.
Finley Parker, River Ridge (Woodstock, Ga.)
6-3 | Forward
She averaged 14.6 points and 7.0 rebounds, helping the Knights secure a 31-1 record and the Class AAAAA championship while finishing No. 20 in the Top 25.
Dasia Scott, Principia (St. Louis, Mo.)
6-2 | Forward
Scott averaged 17.7 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 2.6 steals for the Panthers, who finished 24-5, claiming the Class 3 state title.
Baker led her team with 14.4 points per game, contributing 4.4 rebounds as the Saints finished 26-4 and won the Class 4A championship.
Jazman Bailey, Lake Ridge (Mansfield, Texas)
5-9 | Guard
She averaged 12.8 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 2.0 steals per game.
Ryan Carter, Archbishop Wood (Warminster, Pa.)
6-0 | Guard
Carter produced 17.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 2.2 steals per game, shooting 53 percent from the field for the Vikings (22-8).
JaNyia Cunningham, South Pointe (Rock Hill, S.C.)
6-0 | Forward
Cunningham played a vital role in the Stallions’ 30-1 record and advancement to the Class 4A semifinals, averaging 19.1 points and 9.6 rebounds per game.
Lillie Graves, McCutcheon (Lafayette, Ind.)
6-0 | Guard
Graves averaged 18.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, 4.0 steals, and 3.4 assists while contributing to the Mavericks’ 24-4 season record.
Khalia Hartwell, Westside (Anderson, S.C.)
6-5 | Forward
Hartwell averaged 15.2 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game for her team, which reached the Class 4A state finals.
Samari Holmen, Duncanville (Texas)
5-8 | Guard
Holmen averaged 16.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 2.9 steals per game for the Pantherettes (29-7), who made it to the Class 6A Division 1 regional final.
Eve Long, Olathe South (Olathe, Kan.)
6-3 | Forward
This All-State standout averaged 22.0 points, 11.0 rebounds, 2.7 blocks, and 2.1 assists per game.
Jemini Mitchell, Cypress Springs (Cypress, Texas)
6-2 | Shooting guard
Mitchell averaged 22.1 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 2.2 steals for the Panthers (30-4), reaching the Class 6A Division 2 regional final.
Sydney Mobley, Big Walnut (Sunbury, Ohio)
6-2 | Forward
Mobley accounted for 20.0 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 2.5 steals, and 1.5 blocked shots per game, leading the Golden Eagles to a 23-4 record and a Division II state semifinal appearance, setting scoring and rebounding records for Big Walnut in the process.
Bella Owumi, St. Mary’s (Lynn, Mass.)
6-0 | Guard
Owumi averaged 17.1 points, 13.7 rebounds, 4.5 steals, and 3.8 assists as the Spartans had a successful season, finishing with a 25-3 record and capturing their third Division 3 state championship in four years.
Ze’Ni Patterson, Archbishop Mitty (San Jose, Calif.)
5-9 | Guard
Patterson took on a larger role for the highly rated Monarchs following McKenna Woliczko’s injury.
Ari Phillips, Johnston (Iowa)
5-10 | Guard
Phillips averaged 9.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 2.1 steals, all while contributing to the Dragons’ impressive 52-game win streak and their second consecutive Class 5A championship.
Sydney Savoury, Belleville (Mich.)
5-11 | Guard | Class of 2027
Leading the Tigers to a remarkable 28-1 record and a Division 1 state title, Savoury averaged 26.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game.
Ava Van Vonderen, Kimberly (Wis.)
6-1 | Forward
Van Vonderen played a vital role for her team’s Division 1 state championship, averaging 12.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game.
2026 Englewood Cherry Creek DL offer Tufanua Umu-Cais
Englewood (Colo.) Cherry Creek defensive lineman Tufanua Ionatana Umu-Cais has received an invitation to participate in the 2026 Polynesian Bowl, as announced on Tuesday.
The standout player from Colorado expressed his excitement about this honor.
“Being selected to the Polynesian Bowl is a huge honor,” stated Umu-Cais. “It’s a recognition of all the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices I’ve made, and it means even more knowing how much pride and history are connected to the game. I have seen many players in the Poly Bowl and even players that are in the league now. It is truly special to be a part of something like that.”
Umu-Cais is eager to immerse himself in the experience in Hawaii.
“I’m extremely excited,” he said. “The Polynesian culture is so rich, full of pride, family, and tradition. I’m looking forward to learning more, meeting new people, and embracing everything the experience has to offer. I am extremely excited to immerse myself in the Poly community because it’s my culture. I can’t wait to really put on for my family as well as my community.”
This will mark his first visit to the Aloha State.
“I haven’t been to Hawaii yet, so this will be my first time,” Umu-Cais shared. “I’m really looking forward to it—the beauty, the culture, and the experience of a lifetime.”
Additionally, Umu-Cais is enthusiastic about the opportunity to compete alongside some of the nation’s top talents.
“I do not know the roster yet and what players are going to be attending, but I look forward to meeting them and also competing,” he noted.
The roster for the 2026 Polynesian Bowl includes early invitees such as Immanuel Iheanacho, Faizon Brandon, DJ Jacobs, Myson Johnson-Cook, Brandon Arrington, Chris Henry Jr., Kendre Harrison, Cederian Morgan, Honor Fa’alave-Johnson, Xavier Griffin, Kelsey Adams, Jamier Brown, George Toia, and Jett Washington.
The 2027 Polynesian Bowl will feature early invites including Elijah Haven, Trent Seaborn, and Marcus Fakatou.
Launched in 2017, the Polynesian Bowl saw its first Offensive MVP awarded to former Stanford all-purpose back Connor Wedington, while Buffalo Bills defensive lineman A.J. Epenesa earned the Defensive MVP. The following year, Kyler Gordon from the Chicago Bears and Tanner McKee from the Philadelphia Eagles were named Co-MVPs.
The 2019 contest awarded co-MVP honors to Daniel Heimuli, a linebacker from Arizona, and Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams. In 2020, Sol-Jay Maiava, the quarterback from BYU, and Meki Pei from Hawaii won co-MVP awards.
The 2021 edition saw Travis Hunter from Colorado take home the offensive MVP title, while Jaishawn Barham of Michigan earned defensive MVP honors. In 2023, Nico Iamaleava, a quarterback from Tennessee, was named offensive MVP, and linebacker Andrew Harris garnered defensive MVP accolades.
The 2024 game awarded offensive MVP to Mike Matthews from Tennessee and defensive MVP to David Stone of Oklahoma. Lastly, the 2025 contest featured co-MVPs on offense in Husan Longstreet from USC and Dakorien Moore from Oregon, while 2026 defensive lineman Deuce Geralds earned the defensive MVP honor.
The tenth Polynesian Bowl is scheduled for January 16, 2026, in Honolulu and will be broadcasted by NFL Network.
For more details on the 2026 Polynesian Bowl roster, go here.
The eleventh Polynesian Bowl is slated for January 22, 2027, in Honolulu and will also be aired by NFL Network.
For insights on the 2027 Polynesian Bowl roster, go here.
Creighton Secures Former MEAC Player of the Year Blake Harper
DMV Hoop Session Interviews Suburban All Star Blake Harper
Blake Harper, a standout freshman basketball player from Howard University, confirmed his transfer to Creighton University on Sunday through social media.
Harper, who garnered both the MEAC Player and Rookie of the Year honors, shared his decision on Instagram @_bharp.
“you can’t say i ain’t earn it??” he wrote. “RDJ”
A Washington, D.C. native who previously played at Gonzaga College High School, Harper entered the transfer portal on March 24 and ultimately chose Creighton, turning down offers from LSU and Ohio State. Standing 6-foot-8, he also had the choice to return to Howard.
Harper is set to join a Creighton team coached by Greg McDermott, who led the Bluejays to an impressive 25-11 overall record, including a 15-5 performance in the Big East Conference during the 2024-25 season. The Bluejays secured an NCAA Tournament spot and concluded the season ranked 24th in the USA Today Coaches poll.
Throughout the 2024-25 season, Harper made an impact at Howard, starting in all 32 games and averaging 19.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists, contributing to the Bison’s 12-20 record, which included a 7-7 performance in the MEAC.
Which Teams Are Leading Michigan High School Baseball This Week?
Bay City Western baseball ready for state semifinals
The Michigan high school baseball season has kicked off, and we’re here to deliver weekly rankings of the top teams across the state during the spring and summer months.
Check out this week’s standout teams in the Mitten region.
Michigan High School Baseball Rankings: Apr. 29
1. Bay City Western (12-1)
Bay City Western triumphed over Flint Powers Catholic 9-0 last Thursday but faced a setback with a 4-1 loss against Midland on Monday. The Warriors are gearing up for their next games against Lapeer on May 1 and Grand Blanc on May 5.
2. De La Salle (12-2)
The Pilots swept Auburn Hills Avondale on Saturday, winning both games 15-0, with game one ending after four innings and game two after three. De La Salle’s next challenge comes in the form of a doubleheader against Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice on April 30.
3. Northville (14-1)
The Mustangs notched wins against Hartland and two over Utica last week, followed by a victory against Howell on Monday. Northville is poised for a rematch against Howell on April 30.
4. Dakota (11-4)
After a heavy 10-0 loss to Rochester Adams last weekend, the Cougars bounced back with decisive wins against Sterling Heights Stevenson, claiming victories of 10-0 on Monday and 14-2 on Tuesday. Dakota is slated to face Stevenson two more times to wrap up their four-game series.
5. Birmingham Brother Rice (11-6)
The Warriors pulled off a sweep against Detroit Edison last week (2-0) and secured a 10-6 victory over Hartland on Friday. Up next, Brother Rice will face rival De La Salle for a doubleheader on April 30.
6. Grosse Pointe South (18-2)
With a win over Detroit Edison on Saturday, the Blue Devils set a new school record with their 15th consecutive victory. Although they stumbled against Anchor Bat on Monday, they have a chance for revenge on April 30 and May 1.
7. Saline (15-1)
The Hornets swept Chelsea in two games on Saturday and achieved a similar result against Ann Arbor Huron on Monday. With a five-game winning streak, Saline is stepping into the final match of their three-game series against Ann Arbor Huron on April 30.
8. Orchard Lake St. Mary’s (10-8)
OLSM traveled to Ohio over spring break, where they faced three games: an 8-7 defeat against Anthony Wayne, a 3-2 loss to Defiance on Saturday, and an 8-3 loss to Perrysburg later that day. The Eaglets are set to resume their Catholic League schedule on April 30 with a doubleheader against U of D Jesuit.
9. Romeo (16-2)
The Bulldogs are on an impressive seven-game winning streak, recently sweeping Stoney Creek on Saturday. They’ll look to maintain their momentum with a visit to Utica Ford next on May 1.
10. Sterling Heights Stevenson (12-2)
Stevenson is riding a three-game winning streak after defeating Anchor Bay twice on Saturday and mercying Dakota on Monday. The Titans will meet Dakota again on April 30 and May 1 before a brief pause, then face Utica Ford on May 5.
11. Hudsonville (12-2)
The Eagles wrapped up last week with a strong 5-1 record, including victories against Jenison and Rockford. Hudsonville is set to take on Rockford again on May 1 before hosting a doubleheader against Maple Valley the following day.
12. Jenison (8-2)
The Wildcats dominated Muskegon with a 15-0 win but narrowly lost to Hudsonville 9-8 last week. They split a doubleheader against Caledonia on Tuesday (W, 10-0; L, 3-2), with a rubber match scheduled for May 1.
13. New Boston Huron (16-0)
The Chiefs kept their unbeaten record intact last week with wins over Allen Park and Milan. They are set to play Flat Rock next on April 30 and have a matchup with Dearborn Divine Child on May 2.
14. Detroit Catholic Central (10-6)
The Shamrocks are currently on a four-game winning streak, most recently sweeping Portage Central on Tuesday. Up next, Detroit Catholic Central will face St. Francis de Sales in a doubleheader on April 30.
15. West Bloomfield (8-3)
The Lakers split a doubleheader with Rochester last week and followed that up with back-to-back wins against Groves, including an 8-1 victory on Tuesday. West Bloomfield will meet Groves once more on May 1 before taking on Stoney Creek on May 3.
16. Dexter (13-6)
The Dreadnaughts have struggled recently, dropping four of their last six games, including both matches in a doubleheader against Ann Arbor Skyline on Monday. They have another opportunity against Skyline on April 30 before heading to Adrian on May 3.
17. Woodhaven (15-5)
The Warriors have secured consecutive victories after experiencing two losses in a row, with their latest triumph coming against Dearborn Edsel Ford, winning 2-1 in a dramatic nine-inning game on Monday. Woodhaven’s upcoming opponents include Wyandotte on April 30, followed by Taylor on May 1.
18. Rochester Adams (15-4)
Rochester Adams holds a 2-2 record over its last four games, having recently suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Stoney Creek on Tuesday. The Highlanders have another chance to face Stoney Creek on May 2 before taking on Grosse Pointe North in a doubleheader on May 3.
19. Trenton (13-3)
The Trojans went 2-1 at the 9th Bob Kreszyn Classic on Saturday, achieving victories over Wayland and Flint Powers Catholic, with their only setback against Utica Ford. Additionally, Trenton triumphed over Taylor on Monday, and their next matchup is against Dearborn Edsel Ford on April 30.
20. Midland (6-2)
Midland upset the top-ranked team in the state, securing a 4-1 victory over Bay City Western on Monday. Despite a number of canceled games this season, the Chemics’ schedule is about to heat up, starting with a game against Davison on April 30.
21. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep (9-5)
Pontiac Notre Dame Prep faced a tough doubleheader against Flushing on Saturday, resulting in two losses, but bounced back on Monday with a solid 9-2 win over U of D Jesuit.
22. Detroit Western (13-5)
After a 12-7 win against Grosse Pointe North on Saturday, the Cowboys suffered an 8-3 loss to Grosse Pointe South later that day. However, they regained their momentum with a 5-2 victory over Cass Tech on Tuesday. Detroit Western is set to face Livonia Stevenson next on April 30.
23. Grand Ledge (13-5)
The Comets faced a tough defeat in a doubleheader against Okemos on Monday, breaking a four-game winning streak. Grand Ledge will aim to bounce back during a doubleheader against Lansing Everett on May 1.
24. Mattawan (8-2-3)
Mattawan has triumphed in four of its last five outings, although they faced a setback against Grandville, losing 4-3 on Saturday. The Wildcats will take on Gull Lake next in a doubleheader on April 30.
25. Allen Park (8-5)
The Jaguars managed to avoid a third consecutive loss by overpowering Lincoln Park with a decisive 15-0 win on Monday. Allen Park will look to build on this momentum as they prepare to host Taylor for a doubleheader on April 30.
2024-25 Girls Basketball: Sophomore All-America Team
