Ohio 2026 players to watch
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The OHSAA basketball season tips off today and the freshman class has some studs that you’ll want to know. In this article we’ll look at some of the top players heading into the season. We haven’t seen that many freshmen…
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Continue ReadingThe OHSAA basketball season tips off today and the freshman class has some studs that you’ll want to know. In this article we’ll look at some of the top players heading into the season. We haven’t seen that many freshmen but that’s what the high school season is for!
Tj Crumble
Tj Crumble
Crumble looks like he might have the most upside among any incoming freshman after watching him in the summer for Lutheran East and with Nj Scholars. Crumble is very fluid athletically for a prospect his size and has a ton of natural skill and ability. I expect him to play a key role as the Falcons look to contend for another state title.
Marcus Johnson Marcus Johnson 6'1" | PG Garfield Heights | 2026 State OH
Marcus Johnson Marcus Johnson 6'1" | PG Garfield Heights | 2026 State OH
Johnson has the ability to be the leading scorer among all freshman in the state with his impressive shot-making ability. Johnson can knock down tough shots and plays with a feel for the game that’s well beyond his age. Garfield Heights expects to be one of the top teams in northeast Ohio and Johnson contributing as a freshman will be a big boost to their team.
Brayden Fogle Brayden Fogle 6'5" | SF Lexington | 2026 State OH
Brayden Fogle Brayden Fogle 6'5" | SF Lexington | 2026 State OH
The most physically mature player that I’ve seen in Ohio’s 2026 class, Fogle is a very impressive athlete in transition. Watching him for Wildcats Select 15 U this summer I saw Fogle take over a game at the end against a strong 3SSB 15 U team. If Fogle can continue to evolve his game skill wise, his athleticism gives him the potential to be a high impact high school player from day one.
Jorden Bowens Jorden Bowens 6'6" | PF Reynoldsburg | 2026 State OH
Jorden Bowens Jorden Bowens 6'6" | PF Reynoldsburg | 2026 State OH
Bowens is another physically advanced 2026 prospect who has made headlines at different national camps and tournaments. I saw Bowens flash some potential for a Reynoldsburg squad that will look to compete for a district and regional championship this winter. For Bowens, improving his mobility and ability to take players off the dribble while helping out his team on the glass as well.
Kendrick has one of the most unique traits I’ve ever seen while scouting basketball, with the ability to shoot mid-range jumpers with either hand. Kendrick is also a capable finisher at the rim with either hand and a hound on defense. I expect Kendrick to be one of the most impactful freshmen in central Ohio this season.
Another one of central Ohio’s best in 2026, Levi Davis Levi Davis 6’0″ | CG Olentangy Orange | 2026 State OH is the most diverse athlete on this list. Not only does Davis excel on the hardwood but he also is a standout on the gridiron and the track. It’ll be interesting to track how Davis develops in multiple sports.
Highlights
Albers will be one of the most dominant interior forces right when he steps on the floor in the ultra-competitive MAC. Albers has the size and interior skill to score efficiently from the paint as a freshman. Usually, rural northwest Ohio has a couple studs every year and Albers looks like he’ll be one of the best in 2026 from that part of the state.
Highlights
Xavier McKinney Xavier McKinney 6'2" | SG Reynoldsburg | 2026 State OH
Xavier McKinney Xavier McKinney 6'2" | SG Reynoldsburg | 2026 State OH
Minutes will be tough to come by in the Tigers back-court, but McKinney was productive in the chances he got over the summer. If he doesn’t make a big impact this season, he’ll be one of the leaders of the team as a sophomore.
Miles is one of the top shooters in the 2026 class and has the body to compete defensively immediately. Improving foot speed and ball-handling will be key for the future but from day one he will live off drive and dishes from the athletic guards Emmanuel Christian boasts. With his simplified role to knock down 3-pointers, Miles should have a big impact as a freshman.