Top 250 Expo Preview: Players We Can’t Wait To See

This guy really popped this summer playing for GABL. He blitzes defenses by pushing the ball up court at full speed. He creates lots of shots for teammates when he’s not fearlessly attacking the rim. He can hit from deep and breaks down defenders. He got a little varsity exposure as a freshman, but the Expo will be a great chance to further his development.

There will be a few 2026s at the Expo, all of whom will merit a close look. One we’ve already seen in a small quantity was Jones, who played up with an SSA team this summer. He’s an advanced and physically developed athlete who just might be ready for some varsity action this year. He shoots it well and can play point, off guard or wing. It will be fun to see more of this freshman. The Expo will give him a chance to prepare for the big jump this fall.

Hastings (pictured) has been on the varsity scene, and on the Prep Hoops radar, for three years now. At 1A Solomon, he was one of the most dynamic offensive players on the small school landscape. As a junior, he averaged 19 points and 4.5 assists. He’s making the big leap to 5A Salina South for his senior year. The Expo will be a preview of that adjustment.

One of the biggest and highest rated centers in the state, Mlyneck is apparently making the move from Shawnee Mission South to Free State in Lawrence. The Fire Birds have to replace a ton of talent, so Mlyneck should have the opportunity to be the man. Forums like the Expo present rare opportunities for bigs like Mlyneck to run into a lot of players their size. He will be tested this weekend.

Newell is a big sophomore who didn’t play varsity as a freshman. How will he hold up against the top bigs attracted to the Expo? Newell got great experience with SSA club this summer in which he demonstrated shot blocking and paint defense. This weekend will be another big step in his development.