From MJ Bruno of Central Valley to MeiLani McBee of Kennewick, there are dozens of exceptional “glue” players in Washington high school women’s basketball.
With the WIAA playoffs underway, we’re looking at the 11 hardest-minded players, who do a bit of everything in the state, regardless of their rankings.
We interviewed 20 coaches from across the state about their thoughts on players in their league and district.
Some of the best players in the state could obviously be placed in a number of categories, but SB Live has tried to place them on the list that best matches their skills (and reputation).
The rankings were finally compiled by SB Live basketball analyst Freddie Rehkow and SB Live Washington reporter Todd Milles.
The players are listed in alphabetical order:
THE 11 BEST “GLUE” PLAYERS
Ellie Boni, University, senior
A quality playmaker, Boni was an even better leader – the backbone of this program throughout his career. The state of Colorado gets a relentless scam.
Julia Bordeaux, Bellarmine Prep, Senior
She may one day win paychecks on the LPGA tour, but in basketball, she is an athlete turned agitator who plays with an advantage.
MJ Bruno, Central Valley, junior
If you hear someone screaming with emotion, chances are it’s Bruno, a high intensity but undersized post player who bounces around all the time.
Riley Dykstra, Lynden Christian, Senior
What is the best skill of the MVP 1A Northwest Conference? It’s his ability to get the job done – scorer, passer, ball defender and great leader.
Grace Erdmann, cashmere, senior
It wasn’t all Hailey Van Lith with the Bulldogs. Erdmann is a track and field post who can defend guards toward centers – and come out deep to hit a 3 pointer.
Maya Erling, Glacier Peak, Junior
This first Wesco all-4A team does its thing with a boast – adjusting screens, dropping close-ups and being in the middle of the action.
Erika Glenn, Ilwaco, senior
This 2B star knows a style – unforgiving. Known as a save ball defender, Glenn also took over the offensive for fishermen.
Emma Main, Mount Spokane, Senior
What has Main not done for the 2019 state finalists in his career? She teamed up with Jayda Noble to do it all, especially for the big shots.
MeiLani McBee, Kennewick, Senior
If you’ve researched the player’s understood definition of “glue” – McBee is it. She thrives on doing the dirty work for the Lions, and Hawaii has rewarded her for it.
Molly Moffitt, Seattle Prep, Junior
In a talented Metro League, Moffitt not only survived on the sand and drove like a two-way star, she got into the top team in the league as a junior.
Ashlynn Sylve, East Valley of Yakima, Junior
Back from the year? After missing an injury last season, she took the Red Devils to fourth place in 2A – as a rebounder, defender and scorer.
To note: Kiernen Denckla, Kentridge, sr .; Morgan Herrera, La Conner, sr .; Ramona Jagger, Decatur, sr .; Katie King, Burlington-Edison, sr .; Anna Olson, Moses Lake, jr .; Halo Parks, Beamer, sr .; Jordan Ryan, Columbia River, sr .; Kal Schaplow, Toledo, sr .; McKinley Stotts, Washougal, sr.