Alexis Whittington showed good touch and size at the guard position at the CoachHemi.com Fall Workout. *Photo by Nakita Hemingway.
LEBANON, Tenn. -- Nearly 75 players from Middle Tennessee and surrounding areas took advantage of the workout presented by CoachHemi.com. Many of the prospects who made a name for themselves were underclassmen. Some have already heard from college coaches while many others are just beginning the recruiting process. Here is a look back at the players who took center stage on October 11.
2017 Checklist
One of the most dynamic scorers from the guard position was Emily Beard of Dickson, Tenn. The 5-foot-7 combo guard lit up the defense with long range jumpers and slashed to the bucket at the same time. Her ability to handle the ball while being able to score will make her one of the better guard prospects in the state.
Addison Byrd of Mt. Juliet, Tenn., had a chance to play on her home court at the workout. The 5-10 wing played with confidence and made the plays that our staff had seen her make last month at the EBA All-American Camp. She will give first-year coach John Wild a centerpiece to build around at Wilson Central High School for the next three years.
Shaela Gardner of Cordova, Tenn., is a sharpshooter who did not disappoint on Saturday afternoon. At 6-1 she has the size to play either forward position. However, it is her shooting specialty that will make her an impact player in years to come.
One of the better athletes at the camp was Tyra Hughes of Smyrna, Tenn. The left-handed wing-forward has improved her foot quickness since our last evaluation. She should make a major impact for coach Spencer Richardson and his Lady Zoom program next summer.
We really like the potential of Anna Jones of Jackson, Tenn. The 5-10 guard has great size for the wing, but she has the skill to make an impact from that position as well. That combination will make her one of the better prospects in West Tennessee in her class.
A player who gets better with every viewing is Paige Pipkin of Henderson, Tenn. The 5-10 guard battled on the defensive end and shot the ball with accuracy from the perimeter.
2018 Checklist
Keep an eye for East Tennessee post prospect Abbey Cornelius. At 6-2 she has great length for the interior, but she also a soft touch on her jump shot.
Kursten Hawkins of Manchester, Tenn., caught our eye again with her play during the workout. Her determination on the floor is notable, but it is her playmaking ability that should earn her playing time this high school season.
Brynne Lytle of Jackson, Tenn., is a new name for our staff. She made a great impression with skill and activity on the offensive end. She scored the ball with dribble moves, but remained active even without the ball in her hands.
Another prospect that continues to make strides is Savanna Owens of Bartlett, Tenn. The wing forward has a great combination of size and athleticism. If her skills continue to keep pace, watch for her to be a name that we see again.
Emiline Payne of Gallatin, Tenn., made a terrific impression again this weekend. Her combination of basketball I.Q. and savvy with the ball in her hands allowed her to score multiple times during game play.
Alexis Whittington is a blend of size and skill, which turns into production on the floor. The 5-10 guard showed her soft touch at the workout, while also showing the willingness to rebound from her position. Look for her to be a prize prospect for coach Cory Barrett at Riverdale High School in upcoming years. Follow @JLHemingwayPSB