Each year since 2006, MaxPreps has recognized outstanding performers in high school girls basketball. The tradition continues to close out the 2025-26 season by naming the top player in each state. Selections are based on team success and individual excellence in addition to local and state accolades.
Ashley Walker of
North Augusta is the 2025-26 MaxPreps South Carolina High School Girls Basketball Player of the Year. The 5-foot-10 junior forward led the Yellow Jackets to a 28-1 record and second straight Class 4A state title championship.
For the season, Walker averaged 17.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.7 steals and 2.2 assists per game as North Augusta won its seventh title in 10 seasons.
Ashley Walker helped North Augusta win its seventh state title in the past 10 years. The program has reached the championship game eight times since 2017 after having never previously reached a final. (PHOTO: Chris Martino)
Walker scored a season-high 31 points in a January win over Goose Creek.
Regarded as a top 10 prospect in the Class of 2027, Walker has produced 1,441 points and 613 rebounds through three seasons at North Augusta.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team, which is scheduled to be released in April. Past selections include 2025 WNBA Most Valuable Player A'ja Wilson (2014) along with 2025 All-WNBA selections Aliyah Boston (2017, 2018, 2019), Paige Bueckers (2018, 2019), Napheesa Collier (2015), Sabrina Ionescu (2015, 2016), Kelsey Mitchell (2014), Nneka Ogwumike (2008), Alyssa Thomas (2010) and Jackie Young (2014, 2015).
Past MaxPreps South Carolina Players of the Year2021-22 — Milaysia Fulwiley, Keenan (Columbia)
2022-23 — Joyce Edwards, Camden
2023-24 — Joyce Edwards, Camden
2024-25 — Skyla Tuthill, Ashley Ridge (Summerville)
