MaxPreps 2013-14 Minnesota preseason girls basketball Fab 5

By Greg Bates Nov 15, 2013, 12:00am

Class 4A runner-up Kennedy-Bloomington is the best team entering the 2013-14 season.

Graphic by Bryce Escobar

MaxPreps 2013-14 Minnesota Girls Basketball Preseason Fab 5 presented by the Army National Guard

Click here to see the girls basketball preseason Fab 5 from every state

1. Kennedy (Bloomington)
2012-13 record: 28-4, Class 4A state runner-up
Head coach: Quintin Johnson

Despite losing their top scorer Jade Martin, the Eagles have the next top six scorers back from last season. Tonoia Wade (12.5 points), Jasmyn Martin (11.9) and Kenisha Bell can all lead the team in scoring on any given night. Kennedy relied on its strong defense last season to get to the state title game and will do the same this year.

2. Eastview (Apple Valley)
2012-13 record: 29-3
Head coach: Melissa Guebert
 
The Lightning enter the season with a lot to look forward to. After placing third in Class 4A in 2012-13, Eastview has back its leading scorer, Madison Guebert. The junior poured in 20.7 points per game and drained 92 3-pointers. Hana Metoxen (11 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game) is a great all-around compliment to Guebert.

3. Hopkins (Minnetonka)
2012-13 record: 31-1, Class 4A state champions
Head coach: Brian Cosgriff
 
If there would ever be a rebuilding year for the Royals, this would be it. However, after winning its third-straight state title a season ago, Hopkins’ tradition goes a long way. Nia Hollie (7.7 points and 3.1 assists per game) is the lone returning starter. Forward Molly O'Toole (7.7 points, 4.4 rebounds) will have play strong in the middle.



4. Richfield
2012-13 record: 28-4
Head coach: Scott Stadem
 
Defensive-minded and athletic will be the key for the Spartans. The team’s top two scorers from a season ago are now playing in college, but Richfield has back four players who cracked the starting lineup in 2012-13. Twins Kyla Adams and Kailee Adams combined for 18.4 points and nine rebounds, while Leah Barnes and Dominique Hammonds will play larger roles this season.
 
5. Osseo
2012-13 record: 22-10
Head coach: John Rieser
 
The Orioles return just one starter from a season ago, Ayo Porte. The senior averaged 10 points, 6.7 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game. Madi Malone (4.4 points) and Courtney Calkins (4.1) were the fourth and five leading scorers when Osseo finished fourth at state in Class 4A.