SBLive 2021-22 preseason Class 1B Washington high school girls basketball rankings
Based on conversations with coaches and statewide media, SBLive ranks the top 10 teams across the state of Washington in Class 1B girls basketball heading into the 2021-22 season:
CLASS 1B GIRLS RANKINGS
1. MOSSYROCK
A stalwart at the 2B level, including winning the 2007 state title, this is the program's best chance to shine on a new state-level stage. Two-way terrorizing PG Payton Torrey leads high-pressure attack for reigning Southwest District champions.
2. GARFIELD-PALOUSE
After years of taking their lumps from tradition Southeast 1B powers Colton, Pomeroy and Oakesdale, now it is the senior-heavy Vikings' turn as the favorites. Inside-outside scoring C Kenzi Pedersen is an anchor for this exciting group.
3. NEAH BAY
Nobody pushes the pace quite like the Northwest District favorites, who have made it to the 1B tournament in 12 of the past 14 seasons. PG Allie Greene will carry a heavy scoring load, and C Oceana Aguirre cleans up the interior.
4. COLTON
The 10-time 1B champions should be factors again. How seriously? It depends how effectively this by-committee group of guards, led by seniors Maggie Meyer and Lola Baerlocher, can get out and run - and knock down 3-point shots.
5. OAKESDALE
Six months ago, this would have been the consensus No. 1 team for 2021-22. But with injuries (PG Jessie Reed out with knee) and other-sport defections, Nighthawks will have to get by with small roster, led by F Kaylee Hinnenkamp.
6. ODESSA
This is a big spot for a program that has never played in a state tournament. PG Grace Nelson (knee) is back to lead high-flying, all-underclassmen nucleus ready to not only win the 1B Northeast, but find its way to the big stage in Spokane.
7. MOUNT VERNON CHRISTIAN
Tough blow losing top-playmaking C Emma Droog (knee), but don't bet against these Hurricanes - who have been in three consecutive 1B quarterfinals - finding a way. By the end of the season, this might be sophomore C Allie Heino's team.
8. POMEROY
Did you forget about this oh-so-close crew after a rough spring? Coach Tai Bye thinks this group can make it to a fourth consecutive 1B semifinal. F Keely Maves is a constant double-double threat, and PG Jillian Herres is a win-at-all-costs leader.
9. WELLPINIT
Graduated five seniors off squad that placed at the state tournament for the first time in four decades, including hard-nosed PG Ashlynn Hill. But Redskins have reliable returning duo in high-motor guards Marissa Seyler and Ashawna Anderson.
10. SUNNYSIDE CHRISTIAN
If spring had state playoffs - the Knights could have been 1B contenders behind the senior duo of Jenna Andringa and Sydney Banks. The cupboard isn't bare as Jenna's sister - 6-foot sophomore P Taylor Andringa - is set up to carry the torch.
FIRST THREE OUT: Almira/Coulee-Hartline, Waterville, Naselle.
(Photo courtesy of Mossyrock athletics)
