2026 HTX Season Stock Risers
This scholastic basketball season in Houston was a big time for players to prove they belong in the upper ranks of the high school hoops scene. Several athletes made big time statements and impacts for their respective teams all year,…
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Continue ReadingThis scholastic basketball season in Houston was a big time for players to prove they belong in the upper ranks of the high school hoops scene. Several athletes made big time statements and impacts for their respective teams all year, but let’s look at some 2026 athletes who proved now that they are ready to step up to the plate even more next year.
Jakendrick Clevenger
Jakendrick Clevenger
Clevenger was a prime time floor general for this Panthers team this year as they came into the season with high expectations. I was impressed with Clevenger’s ability all year to see the court and his awareness was always on high alert on both ends. He always knew where his teammates were on offense for easy assists as he was never afraid to be a pass first point guard. JK’s ability to drive to the basket and shoot off the dribble allowed for him to create his own shots at will and get a score when his team needed it.
Malachi Anderson
Malachi Anderson
Anderson definitely made his impact known on the defensive end of the floor this season for the Timberwolves, as he was constantly put in situations against top players and took the assignment personally. Malachi uses his long wingspan to play passing lanes perfectly and can also guard opposing matchups in the post as well as he knows how to time his athleticism to perfection and rise up to get blocks at the basket.
Simeus was a big time main scoring option for Dawson this year and recently won his district’s newcomer of the year award. Maleek is a guard that can score from all three levels of the floor and is also very crucial with his playmaking and facilitating skills on the offensive end. He plays fundamental defense and has good lateral quickness ability to stay in front of his matchup on defense as well.
Zayson has been a big time scorer for the Eagles as one of the main contributors off the bench all season. Salanoa has showed repeatedly that he can be relied on to shoot the deep ball even in close coverage and can get himself to the foul line, knocking down his free throws. He also has good awareness on the defensive end, where he can lock up effectively when the team needs a stop and never has a negative attitude. He puts his body on the line for loose balls on the floor and is always encouraging to teammates.
Kobe Lacy
Kobe Lacy
I was able to watch Kobe several times this year and he showed great improvement every single game that he played in. I think his best attribute on offense that I noticed was his ability to pull up off the dribble and calmly knock down the midrange or three point jumper over the defender. Lacy is also never afraid to play some physical defense as well as get in the face of his matchup and make them uncomfortable with the basketball. He also has a great amount of hustle and heart and will be ready to contribute even more to the Wildcats next year as an upcoming junior.