Oregon’s Top Girls Basketball Players in State Tournament Showdowns

Olivia Bennett of Cascade in 4A semifinals

Image: KGW News | YouTube

Oregon’s high school girls basketball players showcased their exceptional skills and competitive spirit throughout the season, culminating in standout performances during the Class 4A, 5A, and 6A state tournaments. These athletes demonstrated their dedication and talent, leaving a lasting impression on the court.

Here’s a look at some of the most memorable performances from the state’s best players, who led their teams to success while making their mark in high school basketball.

Chancey Andersen, Jefferson

The senior forward scored 22 points, tying her for game-high honors, and grabbed 10 rebounds, leading the Democrats to a 62-58 win against West Linn in a Class 6A state quarterfinal at the Chiles Center. She followed that performance by posting 24 points and securing 10 rebounds in a 60-48 victory over Willamette in the third-place contest.

Sara Barhoum, Clackamas

The senior guard notched 26 points, going a perfect 10 for 10 from the free-throw line, alongside four rebounds, to secure a 77-57 victory for the Cavaliers over Jefferson in a Class 6A state semifinal at the Chiles Center.

Olivia Bennett, Cascade

The junior recorded a game-high 26 points in the Cougars’ 66-47 triumph over La Grande during a Class 4A state quarterfinal at Forest Grove High School.

Taelyn Bentley, South Albany

The senior achieved a double-double for the RedHawks, contributing a team-high 17 points along with 10 rebounds, two assists, and two steals in a 64-58 overtime defeat to Crater in the Class 5A state championship game at Linfield University.

Love Lei Best, Tualatin

The freshman point guard delivered a game-high 26 points, shooting 4 for 4 from beyond the arc, guiding the Timberwolves to a 63-58 triumph over Clackamas in the Class 6A state championship contest at the Chiles Center. She also scored 21 points on 9-of-16 shooting with five assists in a 65-40 semifinal victory against Willamette.

Kaylor Buse, West Linn

The sophomore contributed a double-double for the Lions, accumulating 19 points, 14 rebounds, two assists, and a steal in a 62-58 loss to Jefferson in a Class 6A state quarterfinal held at the Chiles Center. She also scored 22 points during a 68-52 consolation victory over McMinnville and finished her season with 20 points and 10 rebounds in a 51-42 consolation final win against Southridge.

Hadley Craig, Silverton

The senior wing posted a double-double with 19 points, 12 rebounds, five assists, and four steals in the Foxes’ 63-58 victory over West Albany during a Class 5A state quarterfinal at Linfield University. She also recorded 22 points and 12 rebounds in a 48-39 semifinal loss against South Albany.

Jazzy Davidson, Clackamas

The senior guard erupted for 36 points while adding 11 rebounds, four assists, and four steals in the Cavaliers’ 77-57 semifinal victory over Jefferson at the Chiles Center. Earlier, she scored 26 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, recorded five blocks, and dished out four assists in a 60-29 quarterfinal win against McMinnville.

Taylor Donaldson, South Albany

The junior delivered a game-high 35 points on an efficient 13-of-19 shooting, along with five rebounds and three steals during the RedHawks’ 59-36 victory over Springfield in a Class 5A state quarterfinal at Linfield University.

Breeci Hampton, Stayton

The sophomore guard registered a game-high 22 points, in addition to four rebounds and an assist, in the Eagles’ 59-35 victory over Baker in a Class 4A state semifinal at Forest Grove High School.

Reagan Heiken, Philomath

The sophomore had a standout game for the Warriors, amassing 25 points along with 10 rebounds and five assists in their 53-35 quarterfinal win over Crook County at Forest Grove High School.

Abrianna Lawrence, Jefferson

The senior guard tallied 22 points, tying her for game-high honors, alongside four steals, three assists, and three rebounds in the Democrats’ 62-58 win over West Linn in a Class 6A state quarterfinal at the Chiles Center.

Sara Mangan, Southridge

The junior led the Skyhawks with 23 points, six rebounds, and two assists in a 66-42 loss to Willamette during a Class 6A state quarterfinal at the Chiles Center. She also contributed 22 points in a 59-51 consolation victory over South Medford.

Ries Miadich, Tualatin

The junior wing recorded 18 points, hitting 4 out of 6 attempts from beyond the arc, in the Timberwolves’ 63-58 triumph over Clackamas in the Class 6A state championship at the Chiles Center.

Gabi Moultrie, Wilsonville

The junior guard dominated the scoring with 28 points, along with five rebounds, five steals, and two assists as the Wildcats defeated Summit 73-41 in a Class 5A state tournament consolation match at Linfield University.

Molly Rasmussen, Baker

The freshman guard contributed significantly with 21 points, nine rebounds, three assists, three blocks, and two steals to lead the Bulldogs to a 57-48 victory over Henley in a Class 4A state quarterfinal at Forest Grove High School.

Makayla Schroeder, Henley

The freshman showcased an impressive double-double for the Hornets, scoring 24 points with 17 rebounds and five assists to help secure a 53-50 win against Seaside in a Class 4A state tournament consolation game at Forest Grove High School. She also recorded 18 points and 15 rebounds in a consolation final victory against La Grande, winning 63-48.

Payton Starwalt, West Albany

The sophomore guard was a standout player with 30 points, five assists, and two steals during the Bulldogs’ 63-58 defeat to Silverton in a Class 5A state quarterfinal at Linfield University.

Jordyn Smith, Tualatin

The senior post player had a well-rounded performance for the Timberwolves, finishing with 14 points, 11 rebounds, four blocks, and two steals in a 47-37 victory over South Medford in a Class 6A state quarterfinal at the Chiles Center.

Lydia Traore, Crater

The senior post played a pivotal role for the Comets, contributing 15 points and 10 rebounds to their thrilling 64-58 overtime win against South Albany in the Class 5A state championship at Linfield University.

Harper Wagner, Willamette

The senior wing led her team with 20 points and five rebounds in the Wolverines’ 60-48 defeat to Jefferson in the Class 6A state tournament third-place contest at the Chiles Center.

Sage Winslow, Crater

The senior guard shone brightly, netting a game-high 31 points on 13-of-21 shooting, alongside nine rebounds, seven assists, and four steals for the Comets in their 90-62 victory over Wilsonville in a Class 5A state quarterfinal at Linfield University.

Diamond Wright, Willamette

The senior wing delivered an impressive performance with 25 points on 12-of-18 shooting, along with seven rebounds, leading the Wolverines to a 66-42 triumph over Southridge in a Class 6A state quarterfinal at the Chiles Center.

Taylor Young, Crater

The junior guard excelled with 27 points, six assists, and six steals in the Comets’ 90-62 win against Wilsonville in the Class 5A state quarterfinal at Linfield University. She went on to score 34 points, dish out six assists and snatch eight steals in a 72-44 semifinal win over Redmond. In the state championship, she added 25 points and six steals, helping secure a 64-58 overtime victory over South Albany.

  1. Athletic Highlights

    Tufanua Ionatana Umu-Cais Joins 2026 Polynesian Bowl Roster

    2026 Englewood Cherry Creek DL offer Tufanua Umu-Cais

    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.

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  2. Athletic Highlights

    Creighton Secures Former MEAC Player of the Year Blake Harper

    DMV Hoop Session Interviews Suburban All Star 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.

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  3. Athletic Highlights

    Which Teams Are Leading Michigan High School Baseball This Week?

    Bay City Western baseball ready for state semifinals

    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.

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