12 Freshman to Know (1/2)- Preseason Outlook
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The 2026 class already shows high levels of talent ranging from effortless vertical athletes to flashy point guard playmakers, all of which have the potential to make immediate impacts up to the varsity level. This list is a composite of…
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Continue ReadingThe 2026 class already shows high levels of talent ranging from effortless vertical athletes to flashy point guard playmakers, all of which have the potential to make immediate impacts up to the varsity level. This list is a composite of athletes I was able to see at various team and elite camps throughout the summer, this is only the beginning of our 2026 coverage. Here are six of the twelve names to know going into the high school season. Part 2 will be out tomorrow morning.
Kai McGrew Kai McGrew 6'8" Lawrence North | 2026 State IN – Smoky Hill
McGrew will make an immediate waves as a highly skilled and athletic 6’6 wing. The Smoky Hill freshman is already an easy lob threat and high level shot blocker, going head to head with some of the state’s best forwards this summer. Arguably the most intriguing aspect of McGrew’s progression resides in his jumper, where he showed consistency off the catch.
Gavin Placide Gavin Placide 6'9" | SF Utah Prep | 2026 State UT – Grandview
The Placide brothers are still relatively unknown in the Colorado hoops scene, although that won’t be the case for much longer. Gavin Placide Gavin Placide 6'9" | SF Utah Prep | 2026 State UT stands no less than 6’5, as a two way wing with plenty of room grow on both ends. I look forward to seeing more of Placide’s defensive skillset, given that he could be one of the more versatile defenders in the state.
Gallagher Placide Gallagher Placide 6'9" | SF Utah Prep | 2026 State UT – Grandview
Gallagher Placide Gallagher Placide 6'9" | SF Utah Prep | 2026 State UT also stands no less than 6’5, while bringing significant upside as a perimeter defender and room to grow as a perimeter threat. Already possessing a consistent jump shot off the bounce and catch, Placide will be another name bringing two-way pedigree. While this is not specific to Gallagher or Gavin, Grandview will have a very tall team this season, featuring at least five guys 6’5 or taller.
Madden Smiley Madden Smiley 6'2" | CG Windsor | 2026 State CO – Windsor
Smiley is a high IQ combo guard capable playing on or off the ball, already standing right around 6’2. He brings patient decision making along with the extra gear to get by opponents. The lefty will be a steady offensive presence from the jump, already proving to be a dependable shooter and finishing threat from three levels.
Franck Belibi Franck Belibi 6'3" | SG Cherry Creek | 2026 KS – Cherry Creek
Belibi should turn some heads due to his athletic talents and immediate impact as a lockdown defender. Standing roughly 6’2, Belibi has equally as much potential on the offensive end as a highly efficient finisher around the rim and fullcourt playmaker. One area I want to see will be his overall consistency hitting shots off the catch.
Carter Basquez Carter Basquez 6'5" | CG Smoky Hill | 2026 State CO – Smoky Hill
Basquez is one of the more intriguing prospects in the class given that he has yet to scrape the surface of his potential. Standing roughly 6’4 or 6’5, the wing prospect is already capable guarding 3+ positions while positioning himself as a swiss army knife type of player. His long strides allow him to get by defenders in a few steps along with finishing around size with his plus reach. Basquez is already trouble within transition and as an efficient slasher, although there is significant potential for him as an on-ball creator.