For the sixth season in a row, Bounce and Outside the Huddle are counting down who they feel are the top 50 individual players in northeast Indiana heading into the 2024-2025 season.
Want to know how we come up with our rankings? Click here.
Today, we continue the countdown on the girls hoops side with positions No. 10-6
No. 10 – Ava McGrade, Lakewood Park
McGrade has emerged as one of the top basketball talents in Northeast Indiana, showcasing her skills with an impressive 19.8 points per game, the second-best scoring average in the area. In addition to her scoring ability, she also contributes across the board, averaging 3.7 rebounds and 2.7 steals per game, making her a well-rounded and formidable player on both ends of the court. Last season, she consistently became a triple-double threat, proving her versatility and dominance. McGrade’s consistent scoring ability sets her apart, making her arguably the most reliable offensive force in the region.
COACH’S QUOTE ON MCGRADE
“Ava is a high-level scorer who has grown her game in every way possible since I first met her as a freshman. She can score it every way possible and has grown as a leader, rebounder and defender as well. Very proud of Ava and all she has accomplished and done to help grow our program at Lakewood Park. Thankful that I have been able to coach her and her teammates these past 4 seasons.” – Lakewood Park coach Jared Estep
No. 9 – Miley Wareing, Northrop
Wareing brings her dynamic talents to Northrop following a breakout season that played a crucial role in Bishop Luers’ state title win. Averaging 11.7 points per game, she was a reliable offensive contributor, but her presence on the boards was even more impactful, as she nearly averaged a double-double with 9.4 rebounds per game. Wareing’s defensive prowess was equally impressive, with 1.7 blocks per contest, consistently altering the game on both ends of the floor. Her ability to dominate inside and contribute defensively makes her a significant asset for Northrop as they look to build on her momentum.
COACH’S QUOTE ON WAREING
“We cannot wait to get Miley on the floor in a Northrop uniform! She is going to give us a threat inside and a presence on the glass. Miley is a definite double-double player and she will be an instant impact for the BRUINS!” – Northrop coach Katie Jackson
No. 8 – Khala Williams-Thomas, Northrop
Williams-Thomas burst onto the scene last year as arguably the biggest breakout player in the area, making an indelible mark with her relentless defensive play. While her 3.4 steals per game are impressive, the stat doesn’t fully capture how disruptive she was in every defensive scheme. Whether in full-court pressure or half-court sets, her tenacity caused havoc for opposing ball handlers, making her a nightmare on defense. Offensively, she emerged as a force, averaging 17.6 points per game, making her the leading returning scorer in the conference. As she gears up for another season, Williams-Thomas is expected to be the centerpiece of a Northrop team with SAC title aspirations.
COACH’S QUOTE ON WILLIAMS-THOMAS
“She is the hardest player to guard in the open floor and can pressure for 84 feet. She is the top scorer returning in the SAC and we look for Khala to put together the same kind of numbers for us. We will rely heavily on Khala to handle the ball and lead our offense.” – Northrop coach Katie Jackson
No. 7 – Brooke Zartman, Warsaw
Zartman has established herself as one of the premier shooters in the area, averaging an impressive 16.3 points per game last season. Her sharpshooting was a game-changing asset, with 10 games where she knocked down four or more three-pointers, and in four of those games, she hit an astonishing seven threes. Beyond her scoring prowess from long range, Zartman also contributed defensively, averaging 2.4 steals per game, using her quick hands to disrupt opponents. She also added two rebounds per game, rounding out her impact on the court as a key player on both ends.
COACH’S QUOTE ON ZARTMAS
“When people think of Brooke Zartman, I am sure they talk about her ability to shoot the basketball. She is one of the best shooters in the state. She set the record for most three point field goals made as a freshman and then set the record again as a sophomore. This off season, we really worked at her becoming more of a scorer and not just a shooter and we are excited about the progress she has made. Brooke is one of the most competitive players I have coached…she absolutely hates to lose. I am looking forward to continuing to watch Brooke improve and get better the next two years. Miami (OH) is getting a great player and an amazing young lady.” – Warsaw coach Lenny Krebs
No. 6 – Gabby Helsom, Homestead
Helsom continues to be poised to be a big star from the Homestead girls basketball program, continuing the school’s legacy of producing top-tier talent. As one of the standout players in Indiana’s Class of 2026, she has already made waves by being selected for the prestigious Futures Game this past summer. Helsom’s shooting ability is her hallmark, with impressive range that makes her a constant threat from beyond the arc. However, she’s not just a perimeter player—she brings physicality and toughness on both ends of the floor, making her a versatile asset. Last season, she averaged 16.1 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.5 steals for the Spartans.
COACH’S QUOTE ON HELSOM
“Gabby is one of the best shooters in the state. She shot over 47% from the arc last season and has developed an effective interior game which will make her difficult to guard. Gabby continues to get stronger and will be one of the top scorers in the Fort Wayne area.” – Homestead coach Rod Parker
PREVIOUSLY IN THE COUNTDOWN
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