Jaden Bazin — Bellows Falls Boys Basketball

Bazin turned heads as a freshman by becoming a dominant interior presence almost instantly. His size, strength, and natural feel for the game make him one of the most intriguing young bigs in Division III. With a full year of varsity experience behind him, he looks ready for a major leap.

Last year’s highlights:

• Earned Outstanding Underclassmen honors
• Played a crucial role in the Terriers’ triple-overtime playoff win
• Established himself as a dependable post presence

Why he’s a player to watch:
He could be a centerpiece of Bellows Falls’ push to return to Barre Auditorium.

Reese Croutworst — Brattleboro Girls Basketball

Croutworst delivered a strong junior season highlighted by her leadership in the Bears’ playoff win over Colchester. She plays with a scorer’s mindset, toughness, complimented by her playmaking capability — making her one of the top returning guards in the region.

Last year’s highlights:

• Earned Outstanding Underclassmen honors
• Served as a key scorer and tone-setter for Brattleboro
• Stepped up in clutch postseason moments

Why she’s a player to watch:
As a senior, she’s poised to help lead Brattleboro to another step forward in Division I.

Spencer Claussen — Leland & Gray Boys Basketball

Claussen entered his junior season ready to take on an expanded role for a Leland & Gray team looking to climb back into playoff contention. His steady improvement and growing confidence position him as a key piece of the Rebels’ future.

Last year’s highlights:

• Took on increased scoring and playmaking responsibility
• Took on more responsibility as a vocal and on-court leader
• Established himself as a leader heading into 2025–26

Why he’s a player to watch:
He has the potential to be the catalyst behind a postseason resurgence for L&G.

Abby Nystrom — Bellows Falls Girls Basketball

Nystrom’s sophomore season showcased her growth into a steady, confident point guard who sets the tone on both ends of the floor. She brings shooting range, defensive grit, and strong decision-making — all vital to the Terriers’ identity.

Last year’s highlights:

• Earned Outstanding Underclassmen honors
• Proved herself as a reliable ballhandler and perimeter shooter
• Consistently made an impact defensively at the point of attack

Why she’s a player to watch:
Now a junior, she has the potential to be a major driver in BF’s quest to break through to the semifinals.