Leading up to the 2025-26 winter season, Syracuse.com is highlighting the top high school girls basketball players in New York, Section by Section.
Our first list focuses on the top guards in Section V.
We contacted coaches across the state and asked them to fill out a survey requesting information about their team. These lists were compiled primarily based on the information provided by the coaches who chose to respond.
If you are a New York high school girls basketball coach who did not receive the survey, email bsherman@advancelocal.com. We will continue to add to these lists throughout the season.
BEST GUARDS, NEW YORK SECTION V
(Listed in alphabetical order)
Ari Appleberry-Givens, YMCP/EMHCS, Jr.
A 5-foot-7 transfer, Ari Appleberry-Givens brings toughness and energy to the backcourt. Though new to varsity competition, she made a strong impression over the summer. “Ari attacks both ends of the floor with confidence, defends with intensity, and isn’t afraid of big moments,” Young Women’s head coach Darius Taylor said. Her work ethic and competitiveness have already made her a key addition, with clear aspirations to play at the college level.
Cadence Bachmann, Churchville-Chili, So.
An excellent shooter who plays with passion, Cadence Bachmann has the potential to become one of Section V’s breakout stars. “With continued work on ball handling and defense, she should be a major player to come out of Section V in years to come,” Saints coach Stephen Shepanski said. Her shooting touch gives Churchville-Chili a perimeter threat that keeps defenses honest.
Juliana Bates, Greece Athena/Odyssey, Sr.
Playing alongside freshman point guard Bianca White, senior guard Juliana Bates gives Greece Athena/Odyssey one of the best backcourts in Section V. “She’s a strong dribbler, defends well, and a good passer to find teammates,“ said Greece Athena/Odyssey head coach Nicholas Droegmoeller. ”She’s a playmaker who creates offense and steps up to score when needed."
Addison Blair, Palmyra-Macedon, Sr.
Back for her senior year, Addison Blair brings valuable shooting and basketball IQ to the Red Raiders. “Addison can shoot when left open with much success. She will need to be ready to shoot off of kick-outs or offensive motion,” Pal-Mac coach Dan Harris said. “Addison has a high basketball IQ and will typically make the right play with the ball.”
Olivia Bommelje, Webster Thomas, Sr.
A four-year varsity player who averaged 11 points per game as a junior, Olivia Bommelje combines quickness with defensive tenacity. “Very quick and good defender who wants to continue her playing career in college,” Webster Thomas coach Jason Charno said. Her experience and scoring ability make her one of the most reliable guards in Section V.
Addison Bree, Waterloo, Sr.
A varsity player since eighth grade, Addison Bree helped lead Waterloo to the 2023 Class B State Championship and joined the 1,000-point club as a junior. “She is expected to be our coach on the floor and lead our team to another successful season,” said Waterloo head coach Michael Bree. “Her basketball instincts are what makes her stand out.” Last season, she averaged 15.2 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists per game while leading the team in steals and deflections. She plans to play basketball in college while majoring in sports management.
Olivia Bucci, Geneseo, Sr.
A standout soccer player, Olivia Bucci will be a key player for the Geneseo Central basketball team this season. “She’s extremely athletic and has worked hard at developing her basketball skills,” said Geneseo Central head coach Marley Grimsley. “She’s a fierce competitor and relentless. She leads by example and has incredible sportsmanship. She’s a hard worker that’s always looking to grow. She wills her team to victory at times.”
Leah Buffan, Gananda, Sr.
A 5-foot-6 combo guard, Leah Buffan is poised for a big senior season. “She’s an exceptional shooter and ball handler; can finish with both hands,” said head coach Karin Meuwissen. “I expect her to have an excellent season both offensively and defensively. She is a very hard worker in the offseason and regular season.” Buffan averaged close to 20 points per game as a junior and broke the school record with seven 3-pointers in one game. She also broke her own school record for 3-pointers in a season with 65.
Lucy Bush, Pittsford Sutherland, Jr.
A 5-foot-9 junior, Lucy Bush was MVP of the Section V Class A tournament last season and earned first team All-Greater Rochester honors. Bush averaged 17.7 points and 4 assists per game as a sophomore. Multiple coaches across Section V named Bush as one of the top three players in the section. She recently received an offer from Le Moyne College.
Taylor Carnevale, Clyde-Savannah, Sr.
One of the top returning scorers in Section V, Taylor Carnevale averaged 21.9 points and 4 rebounds per game last year and eclipsed the 1,000-point milestone. A 5-year varsity player, Carnevale plans to attend college to become a Physician Assistant and continue her basketball career at the next level. “I expect Taylor to continue to be a leader on the court, accurately shoot the ball when she’s open, and create offensive opportunities when needed,” said Clyde-Savannah head coach Amanda Gould.
Hannah Carpenter, Brockport, Sr.
A senior point guard, Hannah Carpenter averaged 10 points and 5 rebounds for the Blue Devils last season. A standout softball player as well, Carpenter will play college softball at SUNY Brockport.
Ashanti Caton, Wheatland-Chili, Sr.
A floor general who plays at a high pace, Ashanti Caton filled the stat sheet last season with 5 assists, 6 rebounds and 4 steals per game. “Ashanti plans to play basketball in college, and I have no doubt that she’ll be a welcomed addition to any program that gets her,” Wildcats coach Chad Annis said. “Ashanti shines off the court with a great mix of always picking up her teammates and also keeping them accountable when it’s needed.”
Lydia Childs, Brockport, Sr.
A senior shooting guard, Lydia Childs averaged 18.5 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.5 steals per game last season for the Blue Devils. Childs plans to continue her athletic career at D’Youville College. Her scoring ability and defensive presence make her one of the most complete guards in Section V.
Eva Dixon, Pittsford Mendon, Fr.
Only a freshman, this will be Eva Dixon’s second year as Mendon’s starting point guard. “Excellent off the dribble, high-level passer,” Vikings coach Todd Julien said. Dixon was the starting point guard for the BCANY champion Section V team this summer, showcasing her ability to compete against top talent despite her young age. She recently picked up her first Division I offer from Buffalo.
Jordyn Dyring, Hornell, Sr.
A fifth-year varsity player who eclipsed the 1,000-point mark as a junior, Jordyn Dyring averaged 18.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2 assists and 3 steals per game last season. In the playoffs, her scoring rose to 22.8 points per game. “Jordyn’s ability to score the ball often overshadows her incredible defensive ability and her unselfish play,” Red Raiders coach Jim Dagon said. “She guards all positions on the floor and always matches up with the opponent’s top scorer.” Dyring plans to attend SUNY Canton to play basketball next season.
Aniyah Eldridge, East Rochester, Sr.
A two-year captain and point guard, Aniyah Eldridge is East Rochester’s leading returning scorer (15 points per game) and has already reached the 1,000-point milestone. “She’s looking to add to her 1,000-point accomplishment,” East Rochester coach Liz Davis said. “Wants to play at the college level. Leads the team in 3-point shots. I expect her to lead and provide stability to our offense.”
Alia Gatto, Spencerport, So.
Entering her second season on varsity, Alia Gatto is the Rangers’ primary ball-handler. “She is our ball handler with a strength in attacking speed,” Spencerport coach Joe Gombatto said. “She is a leader on our team and is someone who is mentally tough and disciplined. She stands out to me because she is a player who is always positive and pushes herself to her limits.”
Maria Geary, Avon, Sr.
An honorable mention All-State selection last season, Maria Geary is back for her senior year after averaging 15.6 points per game for the River Hawks as a junior.
Shelby Geer, Palmyra-Macedon, Jr.
A knockdown shooter who has developed her ability to take defenders off the dribble, Shelby Geer is poised for a big junior season. “Shelby will play an important role in our ability to stretch the defense and create driving lanes for other players,” Red Raiders coach Dan Harris said. “Her ability to draw a hard closeout will allow her to penetrate and attract help defenders.”
Gabby Giambra, Harley Allendale Columbia, Sr.
A three-year varsity starter, Gabby Giambra averaged 6.7 points last season as a junior. “She is an active floor general who can facilitate and shoot wel,” said HAC head coach Patrick Muldowney.
Kate Good, Geneva, So.
A 5-foot-6 combo guard, Kate Good had an impressive freshman season for the Panthers with averages of 12.0 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.9 steals.
Aaliviah Green, Eastridge, So.
Highlighted by multiple coaches as one of the best players in Section V, Aaliviah Green had an incredible freshman season. A 5-foot-7 combo guard, Green averaged 23.4 points per game and made a program record 70 3-pointers. She was named fifth team Class A All-State — the only freshman from Section V to earn All-State honors.
Loren Green, Aquinas, Jr.
A fifth team Class AA All-State selection as a sophomore, multiple coaches across Section V named Loren Green as one of the top players in the section. Her elite skill set and leadership make her a standout combo guard for the Little Irish. She has led Aquinas to back-to-back Section V championships, and almost led the Little Irish to their first NYSPHSAA State Championship (they lost a 50-48 heartbreaker to Baldwin in the 2025 Class AA title game). Green’s combination of scoring ability, court vision and defensive prowess have already earned her Division I offers to Providence and St. Bonaventure.
Vanessa Guerrero, Wheatland-Chili, Jr.
A knockdown shooter, Vanessa Guerrero averaged 12 points, 3 assists, 4 rebounds and 2 steals per game as a sophomore. “She is the best shooter on the team and looks to expand her scoring role inside the three-point line,” Wildcats coach Chad Annis said. “Vanessa has done an amazing job of transforming into a general on the floor, and off the court as well. I expect her scoring and her leadership to increase substantially this year.”
Jayden Hootman, Pembroke, Jr.
A knockdown shooter and elite defender, Pembroke head coach Madelynn Stearns expects Jayden Hootman to be one of the players who sets the tone for the Dragons in 2025-26. As a sophomore she averaged 9 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.6 steals.
Petra Hunt, Pittsford Sutherland, Jr.
A 5-foot-9 junior, Petra Hunt averaged 20.3 points per game and hit a school record 84 three-pointers last season, earning first team All-Greater Rochester and 12th team Class A All-State honors. Hunt’s shooting ability makes her one of the most dangerous offensive threats in Section V, capable of changing games with her perimeter scoring.
Braelyn Isaman, Keshequa, Jr.
Highlighted by several coaches as one of the best players in Section V, Braelyn Isaman led Keshequa to a 19-1 record as a sophomore and was named first team All-Greater Rochester. A 5-foot-7 combo guard, Isaman had a big summer playing for XGen Elite.
Robin Jones, Our Lady of Mercy, Sr.
An Ithaca College commit, Robin Jones’ versatility and defensive prowess make her a cornerstone for the Monarchs. “She’s a strong player, goes to the basket, good passer and defends the opponent’s best player,” Mercy coach Tom McDonough said.
Maddy Kielkowicz, Greece Arcadia/Olympia, Jr.
A 5-foot-5 guard, Maddy Kielkowicz had a solid sophomore season and is poised to take a big leap in 2025-26. “She’s a solid shooter. We will look for her to do more scoring this season,” said Greece Arcadia/Olympia head coach Kendra Damann.
Laura Kosten, Our Lady of Mercy, Sr.
A team captain, Laura Kosten led the Monarchs in scoring last year with 14 points per game. “She takes it to the basket and shoots threes” Mercy coach Tom McDonough said. Her scoring ability from multiple levels makes her one of the toughest matchups in Section V.
Alex LaBounty, East Rochester, Sr.
A shooting guard, Alex LaBounty is the “best defender on the team,” according to Bombers coach Liz Davis. “She sees the court and has many assists,” said Davis. “She leads the team in steals. Great shooter.” A multi-sport athlete, LaBounty was a third team All-Wayne County selection last season.
Emma LaBour, Midlakes, Jr.
A multi-sport athlete, Emma LaBour is entering her third season on varsity for Midlakes. “She’s athletic. Sees the floor. Great decision maker,” Midlakes coach Keith Cieplicki said.
Bianca LiBritz, Churchville-Chili, Sr.
A senior guard, Bianca LiBritz’s aggressive style sets the tone for Churchville-Chili’s offense. “A true gym rat, loves to play the game when and wherever she can,” Saints coach Stephen Shepanski said. “She’s continuing to work on developing a strong leadership role.”
Gabriella Leone, Palmyra-Macedon, Fr.
Poised for a breakout freshman season, Gabriella Leone proved herself over the summer, showing she has the ability and physicality to play at the varsity level. “Gabby is tenacious on defense and is a willing shooter when left open,” Pal-Mac coach Dan Harris said. “While there will be some transition to the size and speed of the varsity level, I anticipate a lot of good things from Gabby this season.”
Peyton Liss, Pembroke, Sr.
An extremely hardworking and athletic senior, Peyton Liss had some big moments last season, including a last-second game-winning basket to beat Genesee league rival Kendall. “I am expecting a strong senior season from her, especially with scoring and being a leader of the team alongside Jayden Hootman,” Dragons coach Madelynn Stearns said. “I feel like these two players will really help set the pace for our team.”
Alyssa Marsh, Lima Christian, Jr.
One of the leading scorers in the state the last two seasons, 5-foot-5 combo guard Alyssa Marsh was a second team All-State selection as a sophomore. Her numbers in 2024-25 were eye-popping: 28.5 points, 10.9 rebounds and 9.1 steals per game. She has already eclipsed 1,000 career points with two full seasons to play.
Yaya Marshall, YMCP/EMHCS, So.
A 5-foot-6 rising star, Yaya Marshall is “one of the most underrated players in Section V,” according to Young Women’s College Prep coach Dash Taylor. “As a first-year varsity guard last season, she made an immediate impact with her athleticism, court vision, and relentless defense,” said Taylor. “She’s a versatile two-way player who sets the tone with her energy and unselfish play.”
Selena Maldonado, Hornell, Sr.
A five-year varsity player, Selena Maldonado is one of the fastest and most athletic players in Class B. Last season, she averaged 12 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals per game. “Selena is the engine for our team—we play fast and she leads the charge,” Red Raiders coach Jim Dagon said. “Selena’s ability to break down defenders and draw help paired with her vision and passing ability creates great looks for her teammates and gets them into rhythm.”
Jaeda Mekker, Wheatland-Chili, Jr.
Despite being the team’s shortest player, Jaeda Mekker is pound-for-pound Wheatland-Chili’s best rebounder. She averaged 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals per game last season. “Jaeda outhustles her opponent on a regular basis and is always one of the first to get on the floor for a loose ball,” Wildcats coach Chad Annis said. “Jaeda is steady, dependable, and always ready to get after whatever the task is.”
Amiyah Miles, Hilton, So.
Poised for a breakout sophomore year, Amiyah Miles averaged 20 points per game on JV last season — including a JV single-game record 40 points in a win over Starpoint. “She’s a scorer,” Hilton head coach Dave Heise said. “She attacks the rim and has a quick release.” With first team All-State guard Mallory Heise now at St. Bonaventure, Miles will be tasked with picking up some of the scoring slack for one of the best programs in the state.
Anna Miller, Brighton, So.
In her second year on varsity, Anna Miller is a “player to watch” this season. “She is a skilled guard and can fill in as our point guard when needed,” said Brighton head coach Kelly Weeks. Miller is also a star soccer player.
Madelyn Monteleone, Perry, Sr.
A first team Livingston Conference All-Star last season, Madelyn Monteleone is coming off a career-best year where she averaged 10 points, 5 assists and 3 steals per game. “Her strengths include her relentless defensive effort as she is called on to guard the opposing team’s best guard every game and will give anyone a problem for 32 minutes,” Yellowjackets coach Parker May said. “She is the engine to our team as she is our most vocal leader and rarely comes out of the game due to her competitiveness and hustle.”
Maddie Murphy, Hilton, Jr.
A first team All-County selection as a sophomore, Maddie Murphy started as a freshman on Hilton’s team that reached the Class AA State Championship game. “Slasher. Quick. Improving from 3-point range,” Cadets coach Dave Heise said. Last year she averaged 10 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists and 2.5 steals per game for a Hilton team that went 21-2.
AJ Orr, Aquinas, Sr.
A 5-foot-7 combo guard, AJ Orr was highlighted by multiple coaches as one of Section V’s elite players. Her partnership with teammate Loren Green has created one of the section’s most formidable duos, helping Aquinas compete at the highest level. Orr nearly recorded a triple double in Aquinas’ 50-48 loss to Baldwin in the 2025 NYSPHSAA Class AA state championship game. She finished with 17 points, 11 rebounds and 8 assists.
Tessa Rodwell, York, Sr.
A 5-foot-7 combo guard, Tessa Rodwell was highlighted by multiple coaches as one of the best players in Section V. A multi-sport athlete, Rodwell eclipsed 1,000 career points during her junior season.
Lydia Ross, Elba, Sr.
Also a standout goalkeeper for the soccer team, Lydia Ross averaged 12 points, 4 assists and 3 rebounds per game last season. “Lydia works hard at her game all year long,” said Elba head coach Charlie Pangrazio. “She is a three-sport athlete and still finds time to get to basketball camps and is at the gym shooting shots to improve her skills. Lydia is a motivator through her work ethic.”
Riley Shallenberger, Byron-Bergen, Jr.
Entering her third year as starting point guard, Riley Shallenberger averaged 11 points, 5 assists and 4 rebounds per game last season. “Riley handles the ball exceptionally well and gets the ball to the open person,” Bees coach Rick Krzewinski said. “She will need to shoot the ball more this year with the graduation of Janess Amesbury who as a guard averaged 25 points per game.”
Baylor Smith, Harley Allendale Columbia, Fr.
A second team All-Fingers Lake West selection as an 8th grader, Baylor Smith averaged 10 points per game last season while leading HAC in assists (3.4), steals (2.4) and 3-pointers made (36). “She’s a talented player who can knock down shots and get out in transition,” said HAC head coach Patrick Muldowney.
Sara Solomon, Brighton, Sr.
A four-year varsity player, Sara Solomon is Brighton’s starting point guard and senior leader. “Sara excels in our press defense, as well as leads our team in assists,” Barons coach Kelly Weeks said. “Sara is a strong drive-and-kick guard while also being a consistent top of the key 3-point shooter for us.”
Jenelle Staples, Greece Arcadia/Olympia, Sr.
A returning starter at point guard, Jenelle Staples will be counted on to lead the Titans in 2025-26. “She’s a gritty player who provides a nice spark on defense and strong leadership for our team,” said Greece Arcadia/Olympia head coach Kendra Damann.
Jahzell Strong, YMCP/EMHCS, Sr.
A dynamic 5-foot-5 point guard and three-year captain, Jahzell Strong led Class B1 in scoring last season with 24 points per game. “She controls the tempo, creates for her teammates, and thrives in big moments,” Young Women’s coach Darius Taylor said. “Jahzell plays with heart and energy far beyond her size. She’s on pace to reach 1,000 career points this season and continues to set the standard for leadership and effort.”
Shirley Thompson, Notre Dame Batavia, Fr.
A freshman guard, Shirley Thompson gained significant varsity experience as an eighth grader last season. “She can score on the drive with frequent hand switching moves as well as slip through defenders with ease to get to the cup,” said Notre Dame Batavia head coach Vinny Falleti. “She’s coachable, hard working and loves the game.”
Rachel Vickio, Watkins Glen, Sr.
In her fifth year on varsity, Rachel Vickio was highlighted by multiple coaches as one of the best players in Section V. “She’s a great outside shooter and is able to attack the basket as well,” said Watkins Glen head coach Alicia Learn. “She is a captain that leads by example. Rachel is a very versatile player and very coachable.”
Larissa Walters, Clyde-Savannah, Jr.
A multi-sport athlete, Larissa Walters had a strong sophomore season with averages of 10 points and 7 rebounds per game. “She’s a well-rounded player - both an offensive and defensive threat,” said Clyde-Savannah head coach Amanda Gould.
Bianca White, Greece Athena/Odyssey, Fr.
Only a freshman, Bianca White was the starting point guard as an eighth grader — and she turned heads with her impressive play, including a 33-point outburst. “She has strong dribbling skills and quick footwork,” said Greece Athena/Odyssey head coach Nicholas Droegmoeller. “She’s a strong defender and creates opportunities for the team. She consistently uses quick feet to beat defenders, and gets to the basket to score.”
Sierra Whitney, Geneseo, Sr.
A knockdown shooter, Sierra Whitney is poised for a big senior season for the Blue Devils. “She’s an incredible defender that has a never ending motor,” said Geneseo Central head coach Marley Grimsley. “She’s a great shooter. Every year she becomes more and more confident. She always defends the other team’s best player. She leads by example and provides stability for our team.”
