By: George Courtney
The Tribe Athletics Platform continues to amaze me. The 2023 Native American Jr. Nationals pushed the limit to nearly 260 teams across multiple age groups. There was so much talent under one roof, I had to bring reinforcements to assist me with evaluating players from the high school divisions. I am extremely grateful for Jason Fleegle of Fleezee for assisting me with the girls player evaluations. Here are some of the players who stood out from the event:
Alexia Villavicencio 2025 5-3 Guard Hoophers
Villavicencio is a fluid facilitator with a tight handle and great vision. Her game really grew on me as I watched her display great passing and three level scoring ability. A solid floor general to keep an eye on.
Aniyah Johnson 2024 5-10 Guard Lady Eagles
Johnson immediately stood out as she passed the eye test. She has good length and athleticism. Her length and athletic ability gives her the tools to be successful on the defensive end as she is able to disrupt passing lanes. Another good sleeper prospect with good scoring ability.
Kaydence Apkaw 2024 5-8 Guard Gila River
Apkaw is one of my favorite shooting guard prospects. She has good range and scoring ability and knows how to strike the iron when it’s hot. Apkaw has a long wing span which helps her defensively. For a college needing a reliable shooter, get involved with this prospect as her recruiting stock should continue to rise into the winter.
Lily Thomas 2025 6-1 Forward Lady Eagles Thomas impressed me as a solid rim runner. College coaches needing a post player who runs the floor, finishes at the rim, cleans the glass, and a good passer look no further. Thomas is an intriguing prospect who uses her size well inside.
