Top Shooters in Division I: New Names to Know
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The three-point shot, once considered a luxury, has evolved into a game-changer that can turn the tide of any game. With an unwavering focus and innate ability to drain shots from downtown, these players have catapulted themselves into the conversation…
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Continue ReadingThe three-point shot, once considered a luxury, has evolved into a game-changer that can turn the tide of any game. With an unwavering focus and innate ability to drain shots from downtown, these players have catapulted themselves into the conversation of the top shooters in the state. Here are the top new names to know from Division I high schools that are shooting the cover off the ball.
Although not entirely a new name across the state, Keegan Van Kauwenberg Keegan Van Kauwenberg 6’3″ | CG Kaukauna | 2025 State WI has flat out dominated through his first three games as a junior. Last year, Van Kauwenberg was productive putting up 10.5 PPG on 53-143 3P (37.1%) in 27 games. The reason he’s included in this article is because he’s more than doubled his volume (11 3PA per game) and shooting a better percentage than last year. Van Kauwenberg is off to a hot start pouring in 23.3 PPG on 13-33 3P (39.4%). He also adds 5.7 RPG, 5.7 APG, and 3 SPG.
Tyler Barrows
Tyler Barrows
As a freshman last year, Tyler Barrows had a stellar year but did not receive the recognition he deserved, but we’re giving him his flowers now. 7 games into his sophomore year, the 5’10” guard is putting up 12.3 PPG on a wildly impressive 60.5% from deep (23-38 3P). In a win against Wausau West, Barrows exploded for 24 points on 6-8 3P shooting. He’s one of the state’s best shooters in the 2026 class.
After seeing minimal playing time as a freshman, Brody Gilbertson Brody Gilbertson 6’2″ | PG Wisconsin Rapids Lincoln | 2026 State WI has become one of the go to guys alongside Traiden Clary for Wisconsin Rapids. Through five games, Gilbertson is averaging 15.4 PPG, 5.2 RPG, and 3.8 APG on 15-38 3P (39.5%). Knocking down 39.5% of three-point attempts is impressive, but even more impressive on a high volume of 7.6 attempts per game. He’s someone worth monitoring moving forward.
Having nearly an identical 3P shooting season as last season, Elliott Bessen Elliott Bessen 6’1″ | CG Eau Claire North | 2025 State WI is another player who’s shooting ability has stood out. Although behind percentage wise in comparison to other players, Bessen is a volume shooter who’s sunk 33% of his 7.4 three-point attempts per game this season and last. He’s averaging 13 PPG this year and had a scoring masterclass in a win over Wisconsin Rapids going for 30 points on 6-13 3P.
Highlights
Josh Hayden
Josh Hayden
Josh Hayden out of Mukwonago is another new name that has been shooting the ball extremely well. Through five games, Hayden is averaging 9.6 PPG, 4.6 RPG, and 2.4 APG on 13-32 3P (40.6%). Last season in a limited role, Hayden was barely a contributor, but has really turned the page this season. He’s tripled his points per game and increased his 3P volume from 1.7 attempts to 6.4 attempts per game. He did shoot 50% from 3P last year, but the increased volume helps show his consistency as a knockdown shooter this year.
Parrion Peace
Parrion Peace
Sophomore, Parrion Peace, has announced his arrival at Appleton West and taken over. He’s leading the team in scoring with 16.5 PPG. The team is struggling, but it’ll be a good developmental year for Peace’s game. He’s knocked down 11-32 3P (34.4%) through six games played. Wouldn’t be surprised if we saw Peace’s name in the 2026 rankings down the road.