Other sophomores to watch: This is by no means a definitive list, though the players listed above are already putting up big numbers both offensively and defensively. There are several other sophomores that haven't had the chance to put up many shots but are showing off their talent through aggressiveness defensively and helping their teammates star. Lehi's Marci Gray, Lone Peak's Shantel Flanary, Orem's Brianne Larsen, and Provo's Vanna Cox are just a few that turn heads when they're on the court with their tenacity and are definite names to keep in mind for the future.

Fabulous freshmen

Haley Holmstead, 5-foot-7 guard/forward, American Fork: This freshman has been on the radar screen in American Fork for years as coach Cory Clayton has waited patiently for her arrival. She's a versatile player that can tackle four positions on the basketball court and Clayton calls her his "most gifted player offensively."

She's averaging over nine points per game and is improving as the year goes on and she gains experience.

"She's so versatile. She can out rebound taller people, she's a quick jumper and she has a nose for the ball," said Clayton, who loves her ability to do almost anything he asks.

Kaycee Mansfield, 5-foot-10 center/forward, American Fork: The Cavemen are led by two talented freshman as Mansfield joins teammate Holmstead on the court. Mansfield is the key component to the American Fork inside game. She shows plenty of toughness and plays with a confidence hard to find in most freshmen.

"She can shoot with either hand," said Clayton of his talented post player. "She can run the floor and she's our best jumper and rebounder. She's just a real athlete."

And she's leading her team in scoring at nearly 11 points per game. The only thing Clayton believes his freshmen are lacking is experience on the court, and he's looking for great things from his team next year.

Brooke Hiatt, 5-foot-9 forward, Payson: This freshman came in with plenty of confidence and athleticism, determined to prove her talents to the Payson community and her father. It's tough to be the coach's daughter, but Hiatt has proved she can handle it and has improved every game this season.

She's the Lions' leading scorer with nearly 10 points per game, and she helps the team all over the court with her intense defense, passing ability and the toughness it takes to take a pounding down low or scramble on the floor for a loose ball.

"She can shoot threes and drive to the basket," said Payson coach Dave Hiatt, who also likes to point out that she's still greatly unproven and very young.

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E-mail: jolsen@desnews.com