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60 high school girls basketball players to watch in SW Indiana for 2023-24 season

kyle sokeland, evansville courier & press
·9 min read

EVANSVILLE — The 2023-24 girls season officially begins this week. The Courier & Press will roll out its preseason content in the coming days, starting with what this state is known for best: Basketball talent.

In alphabetical order, let's take a look at 60 players to watch from Southwestern Indiana this winter. Several are household names. Some are returning starters or stepping into expanded roles. Others not on the list, such as freshmen who play immediately, may surprise us come February.

High school football in SW Indiana: Complete coverage from the 2023 season

Katlyn Betz, Forest Park

The top contributor returning for the state champions. The senior guard averaged 2.0 points but played a key role off the bench in the 2A title win versus Lapel.

Forest Park Ranger Katlyn Betz (24) and Lapel Bulldog Madelyn Poynter (21) dive after the ball Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023, during the IHSAA Class 2A championship game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Forest Park defeated Lapel for the title, 38-37.
Forest Park Ranger Katlyn Betz (24) and Lapel Bulldog Madelyn Poynter (21) dive after the ball Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023, during the IHSAA Class 2A championship game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Forest Park defeated Lapel for the title, 38-37.

Hannah Bledsoe, Barr-Reeve

The junior center averaged 12.2 points, 11.9 rebounds and 2.8 blocks for the Vikings. Had 16 double-doubles last year. All-Blue Chip and All-State Honorable Mention selection.

Libby Blythe, North

The junior guard has the most returning offense for the Huskies. Averaged 6.7 points with 43 threes and 2.5 rebounds.

North’s Libby Blythe (42) takes a shot as the Central Bears play the North Huskies during the semifinal round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Friday, Feb. 3, 2023.
North’s Libby Blythe (42) takes a shot as the Central Bears play the North Huskies during the semifinal round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Friday, Feb. 3, 2023.

Ella Bobe, South Knox

The 5-9 junior averaged 17.0 points and is receiving Division I interest. All-Blue Chip and Underclass All-State selection.

Myla Browning, Memorial

The 5-10 junior guard is eyed for a breakout season. Averaged 9.7 points and 3.3 rebounds for the 25-win Tigers.

Memorial’s Myla Browning (22) takes a shot as the Memorial Tigers play the La Lumiere Lakers during the 2022 Evansville North Showcase at North High School in Evansville, Ind., Friday, Dec. 2, 2022.
Memorial’s Myla Browning (22) takes a shot as the Memorial Tigers play the La Lumiere Lakers during the 2022 Evansville North Showcase at North High School in Evansville, Ind., Friday, Dec. 2, 2022.

Rylee Canaan, Memorial

One of the top incoming freshmen. The 6-0 forward already has Division I interest, including offers from Eastern Michigan and Evansville.

Brynna Collins, North Knox

The junior averaged 9.1 points and a team-high 4.7 rebounds and 2.5 steals for the regional champions.

Brylee Delano, Mater Dei

One of three returning starters for the Wildcats, the 5-9 senior averaged 7.3 points on 39 percent shooting and 2.9 rebounds.

Tecumseh's Jenna Donohoo (20) listens to Tecumseh Head Coach Adam Lubbehusen during their halftime huddle for the IHSAA girls basketball Class A state championship at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Ind., Saturday morning, Feb. 26, 2022. The Tecumseh Braves earned a 60-53 win over the Lafayette Central Catholic Knights to become state champions.

Jenna Donohoo, Tecumseh

The leading returning scorer and rebounder for the Braves. Second Team All-PAC selection.

Reese Ford, Tell City

The sophomore guard led the Marksmen in scoring (9.5) and rebounds (4.3).

Lexi Frey, Vincennes Rivet

The junior guard averaged 12.5 points for the Patriots. All-Blue Chip selection.

Aubrey Frank, Washington

The 5-7 junior led the Hatchets with 8.0 points while adding 2.5 rebounds and 2.0 assists. Second Team All-PAC selection.

Peyton Geer, Evansville Christian

The sophomore led the Eagles with 13.4 points, 3.6 steals and 3.2 assists in the program's first year as official IHSAA members.

Arianna Gerkin, Vincennes Lincoln

One of the top forwards in the SIAC. The 5-11 senior led the Alices with 17.0 points and 6.3 rebounds. First Team All-SIAC and All-State Honorable Mention selection.

Olivia Gilley, Washington

The junior forward averaged 7.7 points and 6.2 rebounds for the Hatchets. Second Team All-PAC selection.

Corydon Central's Ava Weber (13) is pressured by Gibson Southern's Chloey Graham (41) during their Class 3A South Semi-State game at Jasper High School Saturday morning, Feb. 18, 2023.
Corydon Central's Ava Weber (13) is pressured by Gibson Southern's Chloey Graham (41) during their Class 3A South Semi-State game at Jasper High School Saturday morning, Feb. 18, 2023.

Chloey Graham, Gibson Southern

One of the top players in the PAC. The senior guard averaged 16.4 points, 5.9 rebounds and 2.9 steals for the regional champions. First Team All-PAC and All-State Honorable Mention selection. Committed to Indiana Wesleyan.

Bailey Hape, Reitz

One of several returning starters for the Panthers. The 5-10 wing had a solid freshman season with 8.4 points and 4.6 rebounds.

Shay Hawk, Washington

The sophomore guard averaged 7.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.7 steals. All-PAC Honorable Mention selection.

Memorial’s Sophie Johnson (23) drives to the net as the Memorial Tigers play the La Lumiere Lakers during the 2022 Evansville North Showcase at North High School in Evansville, Ind., Friday, Dec. 2, 2022.
Memorial’s Sophie Johnson (23) drives to the net as the Memorial Tigers play the La Lumiere Lakers during the 2022 Evansville North Showcase at North High School in Evansville, Ind., Friday, Dec. 2, 2022.

Alyssa Heath, North Posey

The junior forward led the Vikings with 9.4 points and 6.7 rebounds last season. All-PAC Honorable Mention selection.

Bren Hill, South Knox

The 6-0 junior averaged 10.5 points for the Spartans. All-Blue Chip and All-State Honorable Mention selection.

Sophie Johnson, Memorial

A key returner for the co-SIAC champions. The senior averaged 12.5 points and 6.5 rebounds but was limited due to multiple knee injuries. Second Team All-SIAC and All-State Honorable Mention selection.

Avery Kelley, Memorial

One of the top returning players in Southern Indiana. The senior averaged 15.4 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.8 assists. Indiana Junior All-Star, First Team All-SIAC and All-State Honorable Mention selection. Committed to Evansville.

Memorial’s Avery Kelley (32) goes up for a shot as the Memorial Tigers play the La Lumiere Lakers during the 2022 Evansville North Showcase at North High School in Evansville, Ind., Friday, Dec. 2, 2022.
Memorial’s Avery Kelley (32) goes up for a shot as the Memorial Tigers play the La Lumiere Lakers during the 2022 Evansville North Showcase at North High School in Evansville, Ind., Friday, Dec. 2, 2022.

Maddy Knies, North

The junior forward will be key for the Huskies with most of last year's production graduated or injured. Averaged 2.1 points and 2.3 rebounds.

Mayci Litherland, Heritage Hills

The junior guard averaged 6.9 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.7 assists for the 14-win Patriots.

Mallory Luigs, North Posey

The sophomore guard averaged 7.8 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists. All-PAC Honorable Mention selection.

Harrison's Jordan Mackey (30) and Reitz's MacKenzie Shadrick (30) fight for the ball at Harrison High School Tuesday night, Feb. 1, 2022.
Harrison's Jordan Mackey (30) and Reitz's MacKenzie Shadrick (30) fight for the ball at Harrison High School Tuesday night, Feb. 1, 2022.

Jordan Mackey, Harrison

A four-year starter for the Warriors. The senior forward averaged 7.9 points and 5.7 rebounds.

Ally Malone, Gibson Southern

A strong on-ball defender, the 5-5 senior guard averaged 3.1 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.2 assists.

Gibson Southern's Ally Malone (3) guards Memorial’s Avery Kelley (32) during their Class 3A sectional championship game at Mount Vernon High School Monday night, Feb. 6, 2023.
Gibson Southern's Ally Malone (3) guards Memorial’s Avery Kelley (32) during their Class 3A sectional championship game at Mount Vernon High School Monday night, Feb. 6, 2023.

Alex McKinley, North Knox

The 5-7 junior guard led the Warriors averaging 11.1 points last season, plus 4.0 rebounds. All-Blue Chip and All-State Honorable Mention.

Norah Miller, Reitz

One of the top returning guards in the city. The senior led the Panthers with 17.6 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.7 steals. Second Team All-SIAC and All-State Honorable Mention selection.

Reitz’s Norah Miller (23) eyes a shot as the Reitz Panthers play the Jasper Wildcats during the semifinal round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Friday, Feb. 3, 2023.
Reitz’s Norah Miller (23) eyes a shot as the Reitz Panthers play the Jasper Wildcats during the semifinal round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Friday, Feb. 3, 2023.

Brailey Mills, Pike Central

The senior guard averaged 8.7 points, 3.1 rebounds, 1.5 assists and hit a team-high 17 3-pointers.

Kaelyse Mitchell, Reitz

An imposing interior defender, the 6-5 junior averaged 8.1 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.9 blocks.

Reitz’s Kaelyse Mitchell (42) takes a shot against Jasper’s Emma Schipp (21) as the Reitz Panthers play the Jasper Wildcats during the semifinal round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Friday, Feb. 3, 2023.
Reitz’s Kaelyse Mitchell (42) takes a shot against Jasper’s Emma Schipp (21) as the Reitz Panthers play the Jasper Wildcats during the semifinal round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Friday, Feb. 3, 2023.

Paiton Mitchell, Castle

A strong shooter who should be primed for a bigger role. The sophomore averaged 3.7 points off the bench while hitting 19 3-pointers.

Avah Montgomery, Southridge

One of the top returning PAC players. The junior guard was a First Team All-PAC and Indiana All-Star Futures Game selection last season.

Josie Page, Wood Memorial

The 5-8 senior guard averaged 10.3 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists for the sectional champions.

Boonville's Emily Parker (20) is defended by Princeton's Ailie Taylor (4) during their game at Boonville High School Thursday night, Dec. 8, 2022.
Boonville's Emily Parker (20) is defended by Princeton's Ailie Taylor (4) during their game at Boonville High School Thursday night, Dec. 8, 2022.

Emily Parker, Boonville

The 5-11 sophomore averaged 16.8 points, 7.3 rebounds, 2.2 steals and 2.0 assists. First Team All-PAC and All-State Honorable Mention selection.

Lexi Primus, North Knox

The 5-7 sophomore had a solid debut season with 7.9 points and 40 three-pointers. All-Blue Chip and All-State Honorable Mention selection.

Castle’s Aleyna Quinn (42) takes a shot as the Central Bears play the Castle Knights during the first round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023.
Castle’s Aleyna Quinn (42) takes a shot as the Central Bears play the Castle Knights during the first round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023.

Aleyna Quinn, Castle

A strong athlete regardless of the sport. The senior led the Knights with 12.3 points, plus 5.3 rebounds, in limited games due to an injury.

Carlee Rogers, Jasper

The junior forward averaged 7.7 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.6 assists for the sectional runner-up.

Jasper’s Carlee Rogers (13) takes a shot as the Reitz Panthers play the Jasper Wildcats during the semifinal round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Friday, Feb. 3, 2023.
Jasper’s Carlee Rogers (13) takes a shot as the Reitz Panthers play the Jasper Wildcats during the semifinal round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Friday, Feb. 3, 2023.

Macy Sexton, Vincennes Lincoln

A key returning starter for the Alices, the senior forward averaged 7.5 points.

Emma Schipp, Jasper

The 5-10 senior was a key reason for advancing to the sectional championship. Averaged 9.0 points and 4.6 rebounds but posted 19 points in the sectional semifinal.

Jasper’s Emma Schipp (21) takes a shot around Reitz’s Kaelyse Mitchell (42) as the Reitz Panthers play the Jasper Wildcats during the semifinal round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Friday, Feb. 3, 2023.
Jasper’s Emma Schipp (21) takes a shot around Reitz’s Kaelyse Mitchell (42) as the Reitz Panthers play the Jasper Wildcats during the semifinal round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Friday, Feb. 3, 2023.

Rylie Schipp, Heritage Hills

The senior forward averaged 9.7 points, 5.9 rebounds and 2.1 steals. All-PAC Honorable Mention selection.

Paige Schnaus, Gibson Southern

One of the top incoming freshmen, the 6-1 post player already has multiple Division I looks, including an offer from Evansville.

Molly Schulte, South Spencer

The senior guard averaged 11.1 points, 4.2 rebounds and 4.1 assists. Second Team All-PAC and All-State Honorable Mention selection. Committed to Franklin College.

Castle’s Jayden Scott (11) passes as the Castle Knights play the Fishers Tigers during the 2022 Evansville North Basketball Showcase at North High School in Evansville, Ind., Saturday, Dec. 3, 2022.
Castle’s Jayden Scott (11) passes as the Castle Knights play the Fishers Tigers during the 2022 Evansville North Basketball Showcase at North High School in Evansville, Ind., Saturday, Dec. 3, 2022.

Jayden Scott, Castle

The 5-11 sophomore had a solid debut season with 9.7 points and 3.4 rebounds while shooting 37 percent from deep.

Jordan Scott, Castle

The junior guard averaged 11.5 points and 2.9 assists for the co-SIAC champions. Second Team All-SIAC selection.

Castle’s Jordan Scott (24) dribbles as the Central Bears play the Castle Knights during the first round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023.
Castle’s Jordan Scott (24) dribbles as the Central Bears play the Castle Knights during the first round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023.

Katie Sevier, Wood Memorial

The 5-10 junior averaged 13.6 points and 9.5 rebounds for the sectional champions. All-Blue Chip selection.

Arlissa Sharber, Mount Vernon

The senior led the Wildcats in scoring (9.6) and steals (1.6) while adding 5.2 rebounds.

Sally Shelton, South Spencer

The senior wing averaged 7.2 points on 44 percent shooting and 4.0 rebounds for the 17-win Rebels.

Central's Madalynn Shirley (32) shoots over Castle’s Aleyna Quinn (42) as the Central Bears play the Castle Knights during the first round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023.
Central's Madalynn Shirley (32) shoots over Castle’s Aleyna Quinn (42) as the Central Bears play the Castle Knights during the first round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023.

Maddy Shirley, Central

One of the top sophomores in the area. The 6-1 forward averaged 13.2 points, 7.9 rebounds and 2.3 blocks while leading the Bears to a sectional title. Second Team and All-State Honorable Mention selection.

Mya Skelton, Central

The Bears' top returning perimeter shooter. The junior averaged 6.7 points and 2.9 rebounds. Her postseason numbers: Averaged 11.5 points and hit seven 3-pointers in four games.

Princeton's Lexi Smith (15) goes on the offense against Gibson Southern during their Class 3A regional at Charlestown High School Saturday night, Feb. 11, 2023. Gibson Southern beat Princeton 71-55 to advance to semi-state next Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023.
Princeton's Lexi Smith (15) goes on the offense against Gibson Southern during their Class 3A regional at Charlestown High School Saturday night, Feb. 11, 2023. Gibson Southern beat Princeton 71-55 to advance to semi-state next Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023.

Lexi Smith, Princeton

The senior guard was the Tigers' leading scorer at 11.1 points, plus 2.3 steals and 2.1 rebounds. Second Team All-PAC selection.

Gabby Spink, Gibson Southern

One of the top juniors in the state, the 5-9 guard averaged 14.9 points and 4.6 assists while missing the first eight games with an injury. First Team All-PAC and Underclass All-State selection.

Gibson Southern's Gabby Spink (15) brings the ball up the court against Memorial during their Class 3A sectional championship game at Mount Vernon High School Monday night, Feb. 6, 2023.
Gibson Southern's Gabby Spink (15) brings the ball up the court against Memorial during their Class 3A sectional championship game at Mount Vernon High School Monday night, Feb. 6, 2023.

Carlie Still, Heritage Hills

The junior guard averaged 7.1 points, 2.5 rebounds and hit 19 3-pointers for the Patriots.

Brooklyn Sturgeon, North Knox

The junior guard is coming off a summer knee injury after she recorded 20 points and six 3-pointers in the semistate. Averaged 7.0 points and 2.4 rebounds, plus hit 41 threes.

Princeton's Ailie Taylor (4) is introduced at the start of the Class 3A regional against Gibson Southern at Charlestown High School Saturday night, Feb. 11, 2023. Gibson Southern beat Princeton 71-55 to advance to semi-state next Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023.
Princeton's Ailie Taylor (4) is introduced at the start of the Class 3A regional against Gibson Southern at Charlestown High School Saturday night, Feb. 11, 2023. Gibson Southern beat Princeton 71-55 to advance to semi-state next Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023.

Ailie Taylor, Princeton

The sophomore guard averaged 10.3 points and 4.8 rebounds for the sectional champions. All-PAC Honorable Mention selection.

Harrison’s Anabella Thomas (10) takes a shot as the Jasper Wildcats play the Harrison Warriors during the first round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023.
Harrison’s Anabella Thomas (10) takes a shot as the Jasper Wildcats play the Harrison Warriors during the first round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023.

Bella Thomas, Harrison

A three-year starter in the backcourt. The junior led the Warriors with 8.9 points, 1.4 assists, 1.2 steals and 19 threes.

Chelsea Turner, Mater Dei

The top returning scorer and rebounder for the Wildcats. The senior averaged 7.9 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.9 steals.

Boonville's Alison Ward (10) is pressured by Princeton's Mallory Watt (2) during their game at Boonville High School Thursday night, Dec. 8, 2022.
Boonville's Alison Ward (10) is pressured by Princeton's Mallory Watt (2) during their game at Boonville High School Thursday night, Dec. 8, 2022.

Ali Ward, Boonville

A three-year starter for the Pioneers. The 5-8 junior guard proved to be a solid scorer with notable games of 17 against Gibson Southern and 21 versus Mater Dei.

Azaryon Wesley, Princeton

The senior averaged 6.1 points, 4.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists for the sectional champions. All-PAC Honorable Mention selection.

Central's Mackenzie White (23) takes a three-point shot as the Central Bears play the Castle Knights during the first round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023.
Central's Mackenzie White (23) takes a three-point shot as the Central Bears play the Castle Knights during the first round of the 2023 IHSAA Class 4A Girls Basketball Sectional at Harrison High School in Evansville, Ind., Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023.

Mimi White, Central

A four-year starter for the sectional champions. The senior guard averaged 9.3 points and 4.6 rebounds.

Follow Courier & Press sports reporter Kyle Sokeland on X (formerly Twitter) @kylesokeland.

This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: IHSAA girls basketball: 60 players to watch in SW Indiana for '23-24