In a season filled with outstanding players, Whatcom Hoops is ranking the top 30 girls. Each day we’ll feature an amazing player in our county and count down until we get to #1. So join us daily as we honor the best of the best.
#24
Maris Baklund, senior, Meridian
WHY SHE’S #23: Baklund is a feel good story and a feel bad story. After an all-league season as a sophomore, the 5-foot-6 guard missed all of last season with a serious knee injury. That she returned as a senior to score 10.4 points a game, shoot 75 percent from the line, and lead the Trojans with 35 3-pointers was remarkable. Unfortunately, although she played every game, she was never 100 percent. Still her courage and leadership made her the team captain and an inspiring example for the younger players and all who watched her play.
COACH BREE PARK: “Maris overcame adversity and had the fortitude to continue playing for her teammates through injury and pain. She is a person of integrity and determination, which was on display this season as she truly loves the game of basketball.”
Links to previous Whatcom Hoops Top 30
#25: Aliesha Solomon, Lummi Nation
#26: Raven Solomon, Lummi Nation
#28: Reganne Arnold, Lynden Christian
#30: Ellie Wolverton, Bellingham
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Jim Carberry is a former Bellingham Herald sports editor and author of several books on Whatcom County prep basketball. Follow him on Twitter @whatcomhoops and visit the Whatcom Hoops Facebook page.