FIRST TEAM
CARMEN BACKES
Chisago Lakes, 6-1, sr. guard
College: Wisconsin
Backes overcame a torn ACL in her right knee a year ago to enjoy a solid senior season, averaging 22.3 points and 12.7 rebounds per game. "She has demonstrated the ability to play anywhere, from point guard to center, in her career," Wildcats coach Craig Walker said.
PAIGE BUECKERS
Hopkins, 5-11, soph. guard
College: Undecided
The state's best player is being recruited by the nation's best collegiate coach Geno Auriemma and No. 1-ranked program Connecticut. She is averaging 22.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, 6.9 assists and 4.1 steals per game. "Our nickname for her is 'Pistol Pete [Maravich],' " Hopkins coach Brian Cosgriff said.
EMMA GROTHAUS
Mahtomedi, 6-3, sr. forward
College: Lehigh
Grothaus averaged 22.5 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists per game in her final season. The Zephyrs' all-time leader in career points, rebounds and blocked shots "does all the little things that most players overlook," according to coach Eric Pose.
KALLIE THEISEN
Wayzata, 6-2, jr. forward
College: Undecided
One of the best players in the class of 2019 is versatile. She excels around the basket, and keeps improving her outside game. Theisen impacts the game on both ends of the floor. "She is a tireless worker and brings intensity every day," Wayzata coach Mike Schumacher said.
MEGAN WALSTAD
Eastview, 6-2, sr. forward
College: Wisconsin-Milwaukee
An unselfish player, Walstad has unlimited offensive ability and can defend all five positions. She is averaging 16 points, 9 rebounds, 3 blocked shots, 2.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game. "She does everything and anything for her team," Lightning coach Molly Kasper said.
RON HAGGSTROM