STAR TRIBUNE METRO GIRLS’ TOP 10

 

1. Eastview (4A): The Lightning has size, athleticism and experience back from last year’s 4A third-place team.

 

2. Hopkins (4A): Losing 10 seniors from a state runner-up would wipe out most teams; not Hopkins.

 

3. Edina (4A): With 6-5 Bailey Helgren and 6-3 Annika Jank, will anyone score in the paint against the Hornets?

 

4. Centennial (4A): The return of coach Jill Becken after five years means a return to up-tempo, ball-hawking defense.

 

5. St. Michael-Albertville (4A): Senior do-everything guard Rae Johnson is an early candidate for Metro Player of the Year.

 

6. Park Center (4A): The Pirates’ inside-out game, with Mikayla Hayes in the middle and sharpshooters everywhere, can be devastating.

 

7. Lakeville North (4A): Where Temi Carda leads, the Panthers will follow.

 

8. Holy Angels (3A): Much more than just Destinee Oberg, with guards Megan Meyer, Megan Thompson and Riley Thalhuber

 

9. Hutchinson (3A): The Tigers sent a message with season-opening routs of Marshall and Kasson-Mantorville.

 

10. East Ridge (4A): Senior forward Mariah Sexe led the Raptors to an early 55-51 victory over Park Center.

 

Others: Apple Valley (4A), Roseville (4A), Anoka (4A). Lakeville South (4A)

JIM PAULSEN