The GC3 Hoops Platform (partnered with Arizona Preps) is looking to build and expand coverage of deserving athletes to add to our database. One of the state’s biggest secrets is the Canyon Athletic Association (CAA). The CAA serves charter, public, and non-traditional schools at the elementary, junior high and high school levels. In my honest assessment and opinion, the CAA has the top middle school league in the state with (95) Junior High School teams with a state tournament for (3) different divisions (1, 2 and 3).
I was able to catch the matchup between Dobson Academy and Leading Edge Academy Gilbert. Both teams are loaded with up-and-coming talent. In the first three quarters, Leading Edge and Dobson Academy went back and forth, nearly trading baskets and possessions, and with Dobson Academy holding a small lead at the half. Liv Harness (LEA Point Guard) looked invincible with 9 points, but Dobson Academy’s Bella Franco put up 7 points.
Towards the middle of the 4th quarter, Dobson Academy went on a run, sparked by some big plays from Kilinahe McCandless, Marley Perez, and Franco to elevate the lead to double-digits. In the end, Leading Edge ran out of time, as Dobson Academy was able to manage their lead to best Leading Edge 36-25. Here are some of the top performers who caught my attention:
Dobson Academy
Bella Franco 2028 Guard
A pure scorer who knows how to strike the iron when it’s hot. Daughter of Chaparral Head Girls Basketball Coach Giuliano Franco, Bella has a great feel for the game with a good basketball IQ. She runs the floor well and knows how to fill transition lanes, which translates to high percentage scoring opportunities.
Kilinahe McCandless 2027 Guard/Forward
One of the most sought after prospects in the 2027 class. She can fill up the stat sheet and contribute to her team in so many ways. A solid rebounder and inside presence. Kilinahe is more than an inside presence, as she has the guard skills to play on the perimeter. She is a three-level scorer and phenomenal passer. I can see why so many high school coaches are interested in her, especially with her versatility on defense. A solid prospect with tremendous upside.
Leading Edge Academy
Liv Harness 2029 Point Guard
Harness is my #1 overall prospect in the 2029 class in Arizona. She has an elite skill-set as a ball handler and facilitator. Liv also displayed excellent fundamentals and three-level scoring ability. A leader on the floor, Liv has a great IQ and feel for the game on both ends of the floor. I am excited to be following this prospect, as she has a very high ceiling.
Corynn Foster 2028 Guard
Foster is a solid guard with a great motor. She is an aggressive defender who compliments her team. I like her ability to read the passing lanes and the way she utilizes her cat-like reflexes to pick off steals. Her aggression and hustle earn her scoring opportunities. Another prospect to keep a tab on as she is only a 7th grader.
