Player: Leia Rios
Class: 2027
Height: 5’5
School: Knightdale
The Lady Top 80 was off the charts the other week bringing some of the best talent from around the region all under one building. Several players really introduced themselves on the big stage of Lady Phenom, including 2027 5’5 Leia Rios from Knightdale.
Coming into the event, we had heard and learned about her game from Carolina All-Stars head coach Ty Cox, and she quickly showed what we heard. She has a ton of confidence in her ability to knock down shots, especially from outside and behind the arc. She does a great job in finding the open spots, displaying a quick and confident release, and can be a deadly weapon from the perimeter. Rios opens up the floor really well for her team but is also one that can bring value in other areas of the court. In a strong class of 2027 here in North Carolina, Rios would be one that should have more eyes her way in the coming years.
Lady Top 80 Evaluation:
“Starting things off, we look at a player who consistently stood out through her shooting ability, Leia Rios. She’s a smart, balanced guard prospect with an understanding of how to make an impact with or without the ball in her hands. Next in her development process is working to become a craftier ball-handler, as it would make her a more complete player. Coach Lewis on Rios: “Leia immediately made an impression in her first game, showcasing her knockdown shooting ability. She shoots the ball with confidence, has deep range and a quick release. She consistently made the defense pay if given space. Her shooting ability opened up driving lanes for both herself and her teammates. Rios forced defenders to closeout hard, which allowed for her to attack off the bounce. She was one of the best pure shooters in the camp and earned Top Performers honors at the camp. Rios can continue to improve her ability to make plays off the bounce, as that will help her develop a more well-rounded offensive arsenal.” Rios should be a key piece for Knightdale over the foreseeable future.”