Summer 5 Series: 2026 Breakout Candidates
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The Summer 5 series will be centered around players in each class who can breakout with their grassroots organization this summer. Players with momentum heading into the spring and/or players who need a bigger opportunity to showcase their talent. Jacob…
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Continue ReadingThe Summer 5 series will be centered around players in each class who can breakout with their grassroots organization this summer. Players with momentum heading into the spring and/or players who need a bigger opportunity to showcase their talent.
Jacob Willmann Jacob Willmann 6'7" | SF North Kansas City | 2026 State MO (North Kansas City):
Willmann was a player who really broke onto the scene playing AAU during his 15u summer. He’s a wiry 6’7 forward who shows flashes of dynamic play with his size. He can block shots and make the 3 at times. He’s definitely a player who can excel in the more freedom oriented style of play that summer basketball is. All the traits are there for him to have a big few months. Traits, potential, and defensive versatility are areas of the game where he will shine.
Abraham Nayou Abraham Nayou 6'0" | PG Maplewood Richmond Heights | 2026 State MO (Maplewood):
Nayou is one of the most physical guards in this class. He has a chiseled frame and can absorb contact all throughout the floor. A dynamite player going downhill and a capable three point shooter. The sophomore is someone who can switch down and guard bigs displaying major versatility on the defensive end of the floor. He’s set to play with Team Ramey this summer. Expect for him to be one of the top 16u players and a guard who can change games.
Oscar Patterson Oscar Patterson 6'3" | SG Cardinal Ritter | 2026 State MO (Cardinal Ritter):
Another player who will excel this summer for two main reasons. One, he played for a loaded team full of seniors who won state. His role was an energy guy and saw limited opportunity at times. This was a direct connection to the talent of those seniors and not as much Patterson. He’s an energetic player at 6’4 who plays above the rim and will defend multiple spots. A highlight reel waiting to happen.
Kenison Stone Kenison Stone 6'4" | SG Staley | 2026 State MO (Staley):
Stone got some solid minutes at Staley this season and should build upon the opportunity in the following months. He’s a longer guard who makes the game look easy. A player with significant potential should he continue growing and shoot the ball at a high level. There’s a lot to like in his game as a prospect. He’s someone that stands out when you watch his teams play. Look for this to be a 2026 who can rise from his current spot (85th) in the class.
Isadore Ba Isadore Ba 6'2" | SG Ladue | 2026 State MO (Ladue):
Another player who fits in the talented but played on a senior led team category. Ba saw spot minutes for Ladue this season and will be better for having been around that group. He’s a player who can operate on or off the ball and has significant athletic ability attacking the rim. A twitchy defender that gets steals often. His best basketball is still ahead of him and this is a player to watch in 2026.