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Fan Poll Identifies Top Junior Basketball Players

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, February 25th 2026 at 8:53 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, UNITED STATES

Wednesday, February 25th, 2026 - The future of women's basketball is bright, and Sporting News is giving fans a chance to help identify the standout players poised to lead the next generation. Today, Sporting News launched a fan poll to determine the top junior class of 2027 high school girls basketball players. Voting is now open and will remain active until 11:59 p.m. ET on Friday, February 28th.

The poll recognizes 25 exceptional athletes currently making waves in the high school basketball scene. These young women represent a diverse range of talents and skill sets, hailing from high schools across the nation. The initiative isn't just about rankings; it's about spotlighting the dedication, athleticism, and potential of these rising stars.

Why This Matters: The Growing Momentum of Women's Basketball

The increased focus on high school girls basketball reflects the burgeoning popularity of women's collegiate and professional basketball. The WNBA continues to break viewership records and attract top-tier talent, fueled in part by the growing exposure given to young players at the high school and AAU levels. Scouts are constantly on the lookout for the next big thing, and media coverage like this provides valuable visibility for these athletes as they navigate the recruiting process.

This poll offers a unique platform for fans to engage directly with the sport's future, learning about the players and contributing to the narrative surrounding their development. The potential impact extends beyond bragging rights; increased visibility can open doors to scholarship opportunities, sponsorships, and ultimately, a successful career in basketball.

Meet the Contenders: A Look at the Top 25

The list of 25 players features a compelling mix of guards, forwards, and centers, each bringing unique strengths to the court. Leading the pack is Jada Clark (Millbrook, N.C.), a 5-10 guard known for her scoring ability and court vision. Right behind her is Lindsey Lee (Desert Vista, Ariz.), a 6-2 forward with a versatile game, excelling in both inside and outside play. Aaliyah Gayles (Long Beach Poly, Calif.), a 5-11 guard, rounds out the top three, recognized for her dynamic athleticism and strong defensive skills.

The list doesn't stop there. Players like Liv McGill (Blair, Neb.), a 6-0 guard/forward, and Nylah Young (Clarksville Northeast, Tenn.), a 5-8 guard, offer a different skill sets. The presence of several forwards and centers, including Macy Glenn (Father Tolton, Mo.) at 6-3, Jessa Lloyd (Laurel, Miss.) at 6-3, and the towering Taylor Schillinger (Spring Valley, Neb.) at 6-5, emphasizes the importance of size and rebounding in the modern game.

States like Texas, with players like Amaryah Smith (Lancaster) and Tori James (Duncanville), and North Carolina, with Jada Clark and Jordyn Smith (Cedar Ridge), are well-represented, highlighting the strength of basketball programs in these regions. The inclusion of athletes from states like Idaho (Audrey Marsh), Kentucky (Abby Stansberry), and Georgia (Sophia Collins) demonstrates a nationwide pool of talent.

How to Participate and Stay Updated

Fans can cast one vote per day through the Sporting News website. The voting window is open from 9 a.m. ET today, February 25th, and closes at 11:59 p.m. ET on Friday, February 28th. Sporting News will regularly update the rankings based on fan votes, creating a dynamic and engaging competition.

Be sure to check back daily to track the progress of your favorite players and see how the rankings evolve. This poll is more than just a popularity contest; it's a celebration of the hard work, dedication, and potential of the next generation of women's basketball stars. The final rankings, determined by fan voting, will provide a snapshot of the players poised to make a significant impact on the sport in the years to come.