From Bethmer Esmeralda Morales to Cashail Hailey Van Lith, there are dozens of exceptional ball keepers in Washington high school basketball.
With the 2019-2020 season over, Scorebook Live takes a look at the 11 best handball players in the state, regardless of their classification.
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 we’ve 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:
TOP 11 BALL MANIPULATORS
Daylani Ballena, Kentridge, Senior
There’s a reason why southern Utah chased it hard – the leader of the first 4A NPSL team can zigzag through any defense, and quickly
Madisyn Clark, Moses Lake, Senior
The defending 4A CBBN player of the year has the gift of building a defender in a variety of creative ways, particularly by going behind the back.
Esmeralda Morales, Bethel, junior
The main reason why she is one of the most exciting juniors in the state is to see her effortlessly jump among the defensemen and make occasional passes.
Mason Oberg, Union, Senior
Everyone in southwest Washington knows that Oberg is a large-scale shooter, but she does a lot of work with reluctance to create space.
Raigan Reed, Lake Stevens, Senior
Also known for her scoring prowess, this Wesco MVP 4A (and Boise State commit) has a sick crossover that makes defenders look stupid.
Malia Samuels, Eastside Catholic, freshman
Samuels just does things with basketball that only seasoned veterans master, especially an ability to change pace and direction smoothly.
Veronica Sheffey, Woodinville, Sophomore
The first fully KingCo 4A crew is everything you would expect from a point guard – terrain awareness, skill in dribbling in both hands and skillful passes. Getting up quickly.
Rosa Smith, Lake Washington, Sophomore
Once she gets along with you, Smith has extra equipment to leave you in the dust – and has really made a name for herself with solid playoff performance.
Callie Stevens, Bellarmine Prep, Senior
If you’ve ever seen his palm playing basketball, looking up from the backcourt and shooting a quick ball with one hand towards a teammate in stride, you would surely be impressed.
Hailey Van Lith, cashmere, senior
When you’re the best player in the state, you can be on one of these lists. The fact that she learned to repel all defenses (unwanted or not) marks her here.
Ashlynn Wallace, Clarkston, Senior
The only thing that stands out from Wallace is his determination. Once she sees a passing lane, from near or far, she delivers in a fraction of a second.
To note: Brinley Hagemeier, Ellensburg, sr .; Aniyah Heavens, Pasco, n .; Mack Konig, Jackson, n .; Hailey Marlow, west valley of Spokane, sr .; Emily Mellema, Lynden Christian, son; Joelnell Momberg, Mead, sr .; Kazz Parks, Skyview, sr .; Megan River, Black Hills, sr .; Lucy Young, Inglemoor, sr .; Andie Zylak, Lewis and Clark, jr.