North Jersey has produced some of the most electrifying talent in high school girls basketball history—players who didn't just dominate locally but went on to shine on the biggest stages, from the WNBA to the Olympics. Now, as part of USA TODAY Sports' celebration of America's 250 greatest sports figures, we're turning the spotlight back to where it all began: the high school hardwood.
We've assembled a list of the all-time greats who defined North Jersey basketball. These women (listed alphabetically) were standout stars before they ever stepped foot on a college court or professional arena. And yes—we've saved a spot for you to write in a name we might have missed. Cast your vote and help decide who truly wears the crown.
Essence Carson (Paterson Eastside, 2004) – At 6 feet tall, Carson was a force from the start. She scored 1,829 career points, leading the Ghosts to three Passaic County titles, three sectional crowns, and the 2004 Group 4 state championship. She later played in a Final Four at Rutgers and spent 13 seasons in the WNBA.
Anne Donovan (Paramus Catholic, 1979) – The only North Jersey girl to ever top 1,000 points in a single season (1,047 as a senior), Donovan led the Paladins to three Bergen County titles and two state championships. After capping her career with a perfect 28-0 season, she starred at Old Dominion and won Olympic gold.
Cathy Dougherty (Pascack Valley, 1984) – Part of a 30-0 senior season, Dougherty's career included county and sectional titles (two each) and a Group 3 state championship. She scored 2,259 points before heading to Notre Dame. Her legacy continued: all three of her daughters later played at Pascack Valley.
Myisha Hines-Allen (Montclair Immaculate, 2014) – This 6-3 forward from Montclair led her team to the North Non-Public B sectional title as a senior, earning North Jersey Player of the Year honors. She posted 2,188 career points and helped Louisville reach the 2018 Final Four before a WNBA career.
Ruth Howell (Becton, 1929) – Before girls basketball went to five-player teams, Howell helped launch the "Wonder Girls" and their incredible 104-game winning streak. She scored 686 points in back-to-back 17-0 seasons as a junior and senior, including a school-record 48-point game in 1928.
Katelyn Louden (Passaic Tech, 2008) – Louden left high school as Passaic County's all-time leading scorer, a record that still stands. Her combination of speed, court vision, and scoring touch made her a nightmare for defenders and a legend in her community.
From the six-player era to the modern game, these athletes represent the very best of North Jersey basketball. But the debate doesn't end here. Who gets your vote? Scroll down, make your pick, and let your voice be heard. After all, great sports debates are part of what makes the game so special.