PSA’s Thompson and Sy shine in the rankings
Two standout players from Putnam Science Academy Prep girls’ basketball team, Athena Thompson and Tacko Sy, have earned recognition in the latest Class of 2026 New England Rankings. Head Coach Greg Canzater believes their talent, work ethic, and unique skill sets make them invaluable assets to the program and promising prospects for Division 1 collegiate basketball.
Thompson, ranked as the #1 small forward/combo guard in New England and #10 overall, has made an indelible impact on both ends of the floor. Coach Canzater praised her ability to dominate as a scorer while consistently defending the opposition’s best player, a rare combination at her position.
“There are very few players at her position who can affect the game as a high-level scorer while also guarding the other team’s best defender throughout the game like Athena does,” Canzater said. “She has incredible strength and speed that make her capable of game-changing plays, which you simply can’t teach. That comes from her work ethic and commitment to staying in the gym and weight room consistently.”
Coach Canzater believes Thompson’s ceiling is extraordinarily high. “She has certainly earned such an honor so far, and my guess is she will eventually be considered for the #1 overall spot in the Class of 2026.”
Sy, ranked as the #9 power forward/center in New England and #38 overall, has emerged as a dominant presence in the paint. At 6-foot, 4-inches, her ability to control the boards and protect the rim has been a game-changer for the team.
“Personally, I think she’s the best pure center in all of New England, and she’s only just scratching the surface,” Canzater said. “She’s highly skilled for a player her size and has shown steady growth throughout the season. Tacko has been a force on the boards and has displayed the ability to drastically affect opposing offenses by not only blocking shots but altering them as well.”
Sy’s natural gifts on offense, combined with her improving defensive presence, have made her an integral part of the team’s national championship aspirations. “Her rim protection and steady improvement will be a catalyst toward us potentially winning a national championship this season,” Canzater added.
Rankings as Motivation
While Canzater acknowledges that rankings don’t tell the whole story, he believes they can serve as a motivator for players. “Most of our roster is international, so a lot of our players come in with a chip on their shoulder, looking to prove themselves here in the U.S.,” he said. “When they see these rankings and believe they are better than certain players, I embrace it and push them to prove otherwise with their work ethic, focus, and effort on the court.”
Canzater’s goals for Thompson and Sy extend beyond the rankings. “First, I want them to be high-level student-athletes who excel in the classroom. Second, I want them to continue to be key contributors in helping us win a national championship while being recognized as two of the best players in the country at their respective positions,” he said.
Both players have earned their coach’s confidence through their dedication and character. “Athena and Tacko are very dedicated to becoming better players every day. If they stay on this path, I have no doubt they will become impact players at the Division 1 collegiate level,” Canzater said.
Rebecca Townes
Sports Information Director
Putnam Science Academy

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