The 2025-26 Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) girls' basketball season etched itself into the annals of history, witnessing unprecedented achievements including two schools clinching their inaugural state championships and another team orchestrating an astonishing 29-game undefeated run. As the season concludes, the spotlight now turns to recognizing individual brilliance, with the Detroit Free Press inviting fans to cast their votes for the Girls' Basketball Player of the Year, celebrating the exceptional talent that illuminated the courts.
The Stellar Lineup: Nine Finalists Vie for Top Honors
On a bright Friday, April 3, 2026, the Detroit Free Press unveiled the nine distinguished finalists for its Girls' Basketball Player of the Year award. These athletes, predominantly senior guards and centers, demonstrated remarkable prowess and leadership throughout the season, guiding their respective teams to significant victories and personal milestones.
- Sheridan Beal, West Bloomfield Senior Guard: A formidable scorer, Beal averaged an impressive 22.5 points per game, converting 46% of her field goal attempts. Her exceptional performance has secured her future in collegiate basketball at Oakland.
- Se'Crette Carter, Belleville Senior Guard: Renowned for her sharpshooting and defensive improvements, Carter was acknowledged as one of four finalists for the prestigious 2026 Miss Basketball award. This Marquette commit concluded her high school career averaging 19 points, three rebounds, and two assists.
- Kayla Hairston, Goodrich Senior Guard: Hairston was instrumental in leading Goodrich to an undefeated season, culminating in a Division 2 state championship. Her season averages included 14.4 points, 2.5 steals, and 2.5 assists.
- Rayah Hitt, Parma Western Senior Guard: Hitt powered Parma Western to a regional final appearance in the MHSAA tournament, boasting an average of 22 points per game with impressive shooting percentages of 55% from mid-range and 43% from beyond the arc.
- Kenna Hunt, Jackson Lumen Christi Sophomore Guard: Despite being a sophomore, Hunt spearheaded Lumen Christi to its historic first-ever state championship. Her all-around game saw her average 20 points, seven rebounds, four steals, and three assists.
- Keira Roehm, Saline Senior Guard: A record-breaker, Roehm solidified her legacy as the state's all-time leading three-point shooter, sinking 329 career threes. This Wayne State commit averaged 16 points, six assists, and four rebounds, maintaining a 39% career three-point efficiency.
- Mariah Sain, Muskegon Senior Guard: Sain's leadership was pivotal in guiding the Muskegon Big Reds to their first Division 1 state championship. Averaging 20 points, four rebounds, 2.5 assists, and two steals, Sain, committed to Charlotte, was also the runner-up for the 2026 Miss Basketball award.
- Kendyl Smith, Flint Powers Catholic Senior Guard: Smith's scoring prowess led Powers Catholic to the state semifinals. She averaged 20 points, five rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 3.3 steals, accumulating over 1,500 career points.
- Lilly Williams, Howell Senior Center: In her sole season with the Highlanders, Michigan State commit Williams made an undeniable impact, earning the 2026 Miss Basketball award and a McDonald's All-American selection. Her dominant averages included 17 points, 12 rebounds, six blocks, and two assists.
The Detroit Free Press extends its gratitude to the fans for their participation in this important vote, urging them to uphold the integrity of the game, just as these exceptional athletes do every time they step onto the court. This celebration of talent not only highlights individual achievements but also underscores the vibrant and competitive spirit of high school girls' basketball in Michigan.
