Freshman guards to keep an eye on

SWMOBasketball takes a look at several small school freshmen who are putting together a strong season.

3 — Emma Compton, 5’3, G, 2022, Strafford (pictured)

If you like the style of play Strafford 2019 guard Kyndall Compton, then you’ll love her younger sister — freshman Emma Compton. She’s small, but quick and is a pest defensively, in opponents shorts and forcing turnovers. At the offensive end of the floor, Compton is a strong ball handler who can get to the basket and finish tough chances in traffic. She has brought a bundle of energy off the bench this season for a squad that is looking for a state record 103rd consecutive win this week.

1-Avery Arnold, 5’6, G, 2022, Blue Eye

A smart young player who can run the show and create looks when she has the ball. She has good varsity speed for her age and looks to push the tempo and find slower defenders she can dribble around. She has a good shot when she’s open and she isn’t afraid to shoot. Arnold has good playmaking skills and a lot of control for her age. A player opposing teams have to prepare for.

2-Riley Arnold, 5’5, G, 2022, Blue Eye

Like her sister, Riley Arnold is a hard-working player who gets better as the game progresses. She runs the offense at times and earns her stripes by scrappy defense and 3-point shooting. She scores when she has an opening and can get her floater and jump shot off quickly. She’s aggressive on the floor and is very competitive. Blue Eye has a bright future. And Arnold has already showcased skill and understanding.

Ruthie Brown, 5’9, G, 2022, Clever

A strong player with a good upside and a high basketball IQ. Brown is in a perfect position to learn, observe and play with experienced guards who know how to score on any defense. Brown has a good feel for the floor and she understands her offense and when to pass and when to shoot for herself. She has played a forward position at times, but she is comfortable from distance.

11-Graceson Cromer, G, 2022, Conway

A smart player who can play off the ball and catch and shoot. Cromer moves well and keeps her distance from the ball. She has good handles and makes good decisions with the ball. Cromer has a good 3-point shot and she’s very good at creating her own look. When she takes advantage of her match up, she difficult to stop.

2-Alyee Gunter, 5’5, G, 2022, Skyline

Gunter is an extremely energetic player who runs the floor and stays in front of the ball. She shows terrific effort on defense and can make big plays by staying in the face of opponents. She is great at listening to her coach and can adapt the way she plays in a flash. She is very quick on her feet and can recover and block shots.

22-Skyeler Layman, 5’6, G, 2022, Crocker

A quick and effective athlete for Crocker who can run lanes and score through transition play. Layman is skilled player for Crocker who can play the point position, score like a shooting guard and come away with the ball inside. She looks to force turnovers and get in the head of her opponents. Also a good passer who can make cross court passes to an open teammate.

24-Shelby McMurry, G, 2022, Sparta

A great defensive player who can pick off passes and score on the other end. McMurry is comfortable with the ball in her hands and she can slip through coverage and score near the basket. She has good height and good length. She can handle the ball as a point and can score off the ball as well. Look for McMurry to use her athleticism to her advantage.