Ava Larson, standing at 5’10” from Mattoon High School in Illinois, is an intriguing Class of 2026 prospect who excels in both basketball and volleyball.
Her dual-sport background immediately stands out, as the athleticism, timing, and competitive edge she gains from volleyball translate seamlessly onto the basketball court.
As a forward, Larson plays with versatility and poise, showing the ability to adapt to different matchups, whether it’s defending in the paint, running the floor in transition, or battling for rebounds.
Her presence in the post is consistent, and her footwork, influenced by her time as a middle blocker in volleyball, gives her an advantage against less agile defenders.
Larson’s game is defined by hustle, motor, and resilience.
She thrives in physical matchups, using her size and strength to carve out space, while also showing flashes of finesse with mid-range jumpers and timely cuts to the basket.
Her understanding of spacing allows her to position herself for easy scoring opportunities, and her rebounding instincts ensure she remains a threat on both ends.
What separates Larson is her competitive nature, she competes with a mindset that every possession matters.
She demonstrates leadership qualities on the floor, encouraging teammates while leading by example through her effort and intensity.
With continued development in her shooting range, ball-handling under pressure, and consistency in finishing through contact, Larson’s potential is expansive.
She is the type of player college coaches value not only for her athletic upside but also for her academic and career aspirations, showing balance and discipline as she pursues a future in physical therapy.
Ava Larson’s combination of size, skill, and mentality make her a name to remember in the 2026 class.
Strengths & Areas of Improvement
Strengths:
- Strong rebounding presence
- Excellent court vision
- High energy motor
- Versatile two-sport athlete
- Strong defensive instincts
Areas of Improvement:
- Improve shooting consistency
- Expand offensive range
- Enhance ball-handling skills
- Finishing through contact
- Faster decision making
Conclusion
In evaluating Ava Larson, it is clear she brings a rare blend of athleticism, size, and dedication to her game.
Her two-sport background gives her an advantage in agility, timing, and overall court awareness, qualities that will continue to serve her well as she advances through her basketball journey.
Larson is not just a competitor, she is a student of the game who understands her strengths and works to maximize them.
At 5’10”, she already brings collegiate-level size to the forward position, but what makes her stand out is her ability to adapt, hustle, and impact the game in multiple areas.
Looking ahead, Ava Larson has all the tools to develop into a high-level player.
With improved offensive polish and a sharper skill set, her ceiling is impressive.
Her balance between athletics and academics makes her the type of student-athlete college programs seek.
Ava Larson is an emerging talent to follow closely.