SCC Top Defenders
Every team needs a defensive stopper sooner or later. A player that can shut down a top offensive threat or alter shots in the paint can change a game all by themselves. These players play a role that is often…
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Continue ReadingEvery team needs a defensive stopper sooner or later. A player that can shut down a top offensive threat or alter shots in the paint can change a game all by themselves. These players play a role that is often unsung and under the radar. The bigger the games get come tourney time the more important it becomes to have that girl who can get you that big stop.
- Megan Hallemann is a 6’4 2020 post from Greenville. Megan has long arms and great instincts for affecting shots in the paint. Greenville employs a 2-3 zone and will pressure the outside hoping you will push the ball in the paint. Megan averaged 4.7 blocked shots per game last year. She moves well and covers ground quickly with long strides. Megan changes the way the game is played by her being on the floor.
- Gracie Reels is a 5’8 2021 guard from Carlinville. Gracie is very athletic and uses that well on defense. She can run the floor and pressure 94 feet. Gracie is also a great on the ball defender in the half court. Coach DeNeve calls her one of the best defenders he has ever had. Gracie is a game changer on defense.
- Sarah DeNeve is a 5’9 2020 forward from Carlinville. Sarah is that versatile defender that every coach likes to have. She can defend on the wing and battle the bigger girls down in the paint too. Sarah is a very smart player and also very tough. She has done an excellent job wherever she is needed. Sarah is a big part of Carlinville being able to create steals and stops that lead to victories.
- Natalie Iberg is a 5’9 2021 guard from Greenville. Natalie is one of the most athletic kids you will find in the SCC. She is long, fast and can jump. Natalie pressures the ball very well. Natalie can also take away the entry pass to the wing. She can force the ball into the middle by limiting your ability to reverse the ball. Natalie is getting better every day and will be a special player this year.
- Shelby Taylor is a 5’5 2021 guard from Gillespie. Shelby is quick and smart on defense. She does an excellent job with her hands. Shelby led the team in steals due to her ability to read passing lanes. She is also excellent at taking a lazy dribble away from the offense.
- Maci Blankenship is 6’0 2020 post from Hillsboro. Maci is long and tall. She will affect shots in the lane. Maci will get the chance to play more minutes her senior year. She will have an opportunity to become a consistent defensive force in the middle. Maci has been good for short runs in her career, but will now have the chance to get more minutes.
This conference has a group of girls that can really affect shots in the post. In addition there are some strong on the ball defenders that will pick your pocket. They say defense wins championships. If that is true this group will have something to say about who walks away with the SCC title this year.