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ONTARIO, California. – If you love basketball, Kaleena Smith is a name to keep on your radar as the high school sophomore burst onto the scene as the top member of the Class of 2027.

Southern California’s standout student-athlete made history as adidas’ first women’s high school basketball partner, and the brand continues to invest in the next generation of athletes.

In 2022, California became the first state to allow high school athletes to monetize their name, image, and likeness (NIL). The approval comes three years after Golden State allowed college athletes to do the same.

Smith gained national recognition during his freshman season at Ontario Christian High School and as he continued to excel on the Overtime Select team. If that wasn’t enough, she was a member of the U.S. Women’s U17 National Team and was also named the Girls Basketball MaxPreps National Freshman of the Year for the 2023-24 season.

In his freshman year, Smith averaged 34.9 points, 6.5 assists and 3.5 rebounds per game.

Candace Parker and Kaleena Smith (adidas)

It becomes the first transfer of the legendary Candace Parker. In May, Parker was appointed President of Adidas Women’s Basketball.

“Stepping into this new leadership role is a deeply personal next step in my journey with Adidas,” Parker said in a previous press release. “From high school to college, from professional football to today, this appointment from adidas symbolizes a shared commitment to creating impactful change and setting new benchmarks for the future of women’s sports. This isn’t just about products; it’s about fostering a movement focused on innovation, representation and access.”

Well done Kaleena!