VISAA Division 1 Semis: Underclassmen to watch

With league playoffs in the rearview, all that's left to play for in Virginia are state championships. The independent schools from the VISAA are down to the semifinals, with four of the state's premier programs squaring off for the title in the top classification (Division 1). While the teams are led by some of the nation's top players, there are several underclassmen we'll take a look at here who figure to play a role if their teams are to make it through to Saturday. Prospects are listed in alphabetical order.    While his older brother Dez plays for a Division III title for St. Michael the Archangel, little brother will be looking to fully announce himself as one of the area's premier 2028's to watch moving forward. He stands out immediately for a freshman with his poise and complete lack of fear. Ainsworth shoots a gorgeous ball while being shot-ready on every catch, with a robust pullup package he figures to show more of over time. With long legs and a youthful face as potential indicators of further physical growth, there could be some real upside here for one of the more productive freshman in the DMV already.     The youngest member of a talent-laden PVI rotation, Bryant plays with a steely confidence that belies his age. Given the level of players around him, the youngster is used mostly right now for his floor-spacing ability, showing an ability to change games with his reliable quick trigger from beyond the arc. Not just a shooter, there's a clear level of feel and skill that we'll look to see more of when we evaluate Bryant on the AAU circuit. He's announced himself for now as one of the top freshman contributors in the DMV.     One of the more physically advanced frontcourt prospects in the region, it can be hard to believe watching Daniels bang inside that he just recently turned 16. With a chiseled frame and rockets in his shoes to explode off the ground, he's a consistent wrecking ball in the paint on both ends who relishes physicality. While he mostly sticks neatly to his junkyard role, slowly but surely there look to be progressions being made in his perimeter skill level. It's easy to see why Daniels has already earned the attention of numerous high-major programs.     Transferring in from James Monroe HS, Minor wasted no time getting acclimated in the WCAC. With a robust frame and a polished skill level with the ball, he shines with his ability to play either guard spot while being a consistent threat to score or make plays. Minor is most dangerous using his crisp and compact handle to work to spots and create separation for his dangerous pullup stroke. With his competitiveness, confidence, and consistent production, he should certainly wind up on D1 radars as soon as this spring and summer.     The lone underclassman in a well-oiled lineup of seniors, Smith is consistently rock-solid wit his two-way presence at the point of attack. A well-built lead guard who uses his strength to outmuscle opponents downhill, he also shows a nice feel for game as an active setup man for his teammates. He has no problem rebounding despite his smaller stature and is willing to thrive as a glue guy who sets the table for others. Smith's reliability is a selling point, but his upside will be determined by how much he can put pressure on defenses as a scorer, either from the arc or at the rim.

With league playoffs in the rearview, all that's left to play for in Virginia are state championships. The independent schools from the VISAA are down to the semifinals, with four of the state's premier programs squaring off for the title in the top classification (Division 1). While the teams are led by some of the nation's top players, there are several underclassmen we'll take a look at here who figure to play a role if their teams are to make it through to Saturday. Prospects are listed in alphabetical order.