Benet: Redwings always have high expectations, and this season is no exception. They aim to reach state finals behind senior center Morgan Demos, a Navy commit, and junior guard Lenee Beaumont, a major Division I recruit. Senior guard Margaret Temple is the other returning starter for the four-time defending conference champions.
Metea Valley: Mustangs won their final two games last season, and coach Keith McIntosh hopes they can ride that momentum to a winning record while competing for a conference title. Two juniors, guard Khaliah Reed and forward Raina Penttila, will lead way for a team that lacks size.
Naperville Central: Redhawks graduated guards Gabi Melby and Karly Maida, who accounted for 48% of their scoring last season. But veteran coach Andy Nussbaum said they have a chance to be good if senior center Trinity Strang and senior forward Ella McDonald continue to improve. Guards Aditi Prasad and Ella Burke also return.
Naperville North: All-American Greta Kampschroeder, a three-time player of the year for the Naperville Sun, has taken her talents to Oregon State. The Huskies, however, welcome Saint Louis-bound senior guard Kenzie Hare, a transfer from Bartlett, to a talented group that includes seniors Sarah Crossett and Hope Aniceto and juniors Abby Drendel, Layla Henderson, Abby Homan and Peyton Fenner.
Neuqua Valley: Sophomore guards Zoe Navarro, Kylee Norkus and Caitlin Washington all earned extensive playing time as freshmen, helping Wildcats to 14-2 record. Junior center Tia Poulakidas also is back for team hoping to contend for the conference title. Senior forward Shannon Gillespie is top newcomer.
Waubonsie Valley: Warriors graduated four-time all-conference guard Lauren McKnight but look to rebound from a 1-12 record behind 5-11 sophomore forward Hannah Laub, a talented multisport athlete who’s primed for a breakout season. Lauren Threat and Amari Banks are among four returning seniors. Newcomers include senior guard Devin Lynch, a Duke soccer recruit.
Matt Le Cren is a freelance reporter for the Naperville Sun.
