Kalaheo's Smith valued for versatility

By Wes Nakama
Advertiser Staff Writer

Four years ago, Kalaheo High School's girls basketball team had a senior left-handed post player who could score, rebound and block shots in the paint, and also run the floor, step out and hit the perimeter jumper.

Kalaheo senior Taylor Smith was a post player with dribbling, scoring, rebounding, passing and shot-blocking skills. Eugene Tanner • The Honolulu Advertiser

Senior Taylor Smith's all-around play brought back memories of former standout Brandy Richardson, and Smith won the same honor Richardson did in 2001: O'ahu Interscholastic Association Eastern Division Player of the Year.

Smith averaged 15 points per game in helping the Mustangs go 11-1 and earn a share of the East championship. But her value went far beyond just points.

In a victory over Roosevelt, Smith scored 11 points, grabbed eight rebounds, dished out three assists and blocked one shot. Against Kaiser, she contributed 18 points, four rebounds, three assists, three blocks and two steals in another big win.

Smith is joined on the East's all-star first team by Kahuku senior post Aisha Ale, Kaiser senior post Kilioe Ali'ifua, Farrington sophomore guard C'ani Kealoha and Kaiser junior post Sharde Pratt.

Ale was a dominant inside player who helped the Red Raiders share the East crown with Kalaheo. She averaged 12.1 points per game, and Kahuku's only regular-season loss came when Ale was injured and did not play.

Tumaneng

Ali'ifua had a season-high 28 points in a 63-48 victory over Moanalua.

Kealoha was a perimeter threat for the Governors, averaging 11.6 points per game, including 20 against Roosevelt.

Farrington's Jenic Tumaneng was named Coach of the Year.