First weekend of May normally represents the kickoff of Memphis in May events. This year it was the kickoff of the inaugural First 48 Shootout in Memphis, TN. Here are a few players that stood out at the event. 

Reese Gardner

Consistent is a word I’ll use to describe ’20 PG/Scoring Guard Reese Gardner (Batesville, AR). She jumped on my radar last year this time at an Arkansas event. Since then, she’s consistently brought toughness, intensity, and composure.

Isabela Carlson

Trusting the process is a phrase we are growing accustomed to hearing. ’22 PG Isabella Carlson (Hernando, MS) is an example of that. I have been fortunate to watch Bella from the very beginning stages of her career. The continued improvement in her confidence, vision, and range is eye opening. 

Lady Wareagles ’23 Squad

’21 PG Sequoia Allmond (Memphis, TN) and ’21 F Diona Reed (Memphis, TN) have been the leaders of the Lady Wareagles program as it started as 1 team. The team has expanded into an organization of several teams.

Lady Wareagles ’22 Squad

There is so much talent on the Lady Wareagles ’22 and ’23 squads that I could not select 1 player to highlight. My original scouting plan for the First 48 event was to scout for 2 days of the tournament. However, I had to return a third day just to see the 8th and 7th grade squads in action again. Both squads came away with the tournament championship titles.