Jada Vanderhorst is a long, physical 6’0 forward in the Class of 2026 who impacts the game on both ends of the floor through defense, decision-making, and leadership.
She brings a strong defensive presence anchored by timing, anticipation, and a natural instinct as a shot blocker.
Jada protects the paint well for her position, using length and verticality to alter shots without fouling, and she consistently finishes defensive possessions by securing rebounds in traffic.
Her defensive motor runs high, and she shows a willingness to take on tough matchups, communicate coverages, and anchor team defense.
Offensively, Jada plays within herself and makes quick, efficient decisions.
She excels as a high IQ forward who reads the floor well, moves the ball decisively, and keeps the offense flowing.
She scores effectively around the rim off cuts, offensive rebounds, and short roll opportunities.
Jada has soft hands and good touch finishing through contact, and she understands spacing, often positioning herself where she can be most effective rather than forcing action.
In transition, she runs the floor hard and creates easy scoring chances by beating opposing forwards down the court.
Her leadership shows up in her body language, communication, and consistency of effort.
Coaches can trust her to execute game plans, make smart reads, and raise the competitive level of teammates.
She does the dirty work that does not always show in the box score but consistently impacts winning.
College Projection
Jada Vanderhorst projects as a high-level Division II to strong Division I mid-major forward with upside based on continued skill development.
Her defensive instincts, size, and feel for the game translate well to the college level.
Programs that value defensive versatility, toughness, and basketball IQ will see immediate rotational potential, with long-term starter upside as her offensive skill set expands.
Evaluation Summary
Jada impacts games with defensive timing, physicality, and a high basketball IQ.
Her length, instincts, and leadership translate cleanly to the college game, especially in systems that emphasize team defense and decision-making. She plays winning basketball.
Key Development Areas
- Expanding face-up scoring and shooting range
• Continued strength development to battle bigger post players
• Becoming more assertive offensively on a consistent basis
Long-Term Outlook
Jada Vanderhorst has the tools, mindset, and feel to become a reliable college starter and defensive anchor at the next level.