Girls basketball preview: Metro area players to watch

Nia Coffey, Hopkins, 6-1 sr. guard

Though she continues to grow, the Northwestern-bound Coffey is still very agile and has an impressive vertical. Defense is her strength, but she also led the Royals in scoring last season.

Jessica January, Richfield, 5-8 sr. guard

Strong build, drives to the basket and can shoot from outside. Averaged 22 points per game and made it tough for any opponent to limit her offensive impact.

Jacqlyn Poss, Roseville, 5-9 sr. guard

A varsity starter since eighth grade and a SportsCenter mention for top plays. Her three-point shot is among the best in program history. Committed to Denver University.

Madison Guebert, Eastview, 5-8 so. guard

Jade Martin, Bloomington Kennedy, 6-0 sr. forward

Always creating chances and pushing the game's tempo. Her big scoring numbers might hint otherwise, but plays unselfishly. Signed to play at Georgetown.

Joanna Hedstrom, Minnetonka, 6-1, sr. guard

The combo-guard can shoot from several feet beyond the three-point line. Size also gives her an advantage on both ends of the floor. Following her mother's footsteps to play for the Gophers.

Tyseanna Johnson, DeLaSalle, 5-10 sr. forward

Phillis Webb, Osseo 5-10 sr. forward

Class 4A all-tournament team mention will help fill the void of seven graduated seniors. Defense is her strength, benefitting from her athletic build and strength. Committed to Eastern Michigan.

Kenisha Bell, Bloomington Kennedy, 5-10 jr. guard

Quick and smart. Lose sight of her and she likely will be on the other side of the court already. Bell sees opportunities better than most, allowing her to score on demand or dish when necessary. Rated among her class' Top 25 recruits in the nation by ESPN. Already committed to the Gophers.

Rebekah Dahlman, Braham, 5-9 sr. guard