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<p>Louisiana had another rankings release last week. This time, it was the class of 2026. The top ten in this class is perimeter dominated with guards and wings making up the majority of the spots. We will take a look at the first ten in the 2026 class and review what makes them the best in the class.</p>
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<p><strong>1</strong>. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1543684' first='Autrail' last='Manning'] - </strong>The number one player in this class is a point guard who can distribute and score. His ability to do those two things makes him a threat at all levels. Manning is also a leader on the floor and has been since 8th grade. His ability to do all those things makes him a high level player. </p>
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<p><strong>2. [player_tooltip player_id='1570497' first='D'Nharayane' last='Vital'] -</strong> Vital has steadily improved since his freshman season. This year, he is primed for a breakout year. His defense has always been ahead of his offense. However, when he catches the ball in the post now, he seems to have a plan of how he wants to attack. If his offense, continues to grow, he may dominate.</p>
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<p><strong>3. [player_tooltip player_id='2218441' first='Armonii' last='Benjamin'] -</strong> Benajmin is arguably the best two guard regardless of class. He is a three level scorer who has range well beyond the college three point line. His willingness to attack defenses with the dribble often sets up his perimeter shots. Benjamin is a gifted player who is hard to stop. </p>
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<p><strong>4. [player_tooltip player_id='2218442' first='Tyshawn' last='Duncan'] -</strong> The junior forward from ASH began to expand his game this past season. Now, he is a legitimate threat from all three levels. Duncan has vastly improved in the post with his back to the basket. He can either out leap defenders or skillfully score around them. His maturation has been very good for himself and the team. </p>
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<p><strong>5. [player_tooltip player_id='1543675' first='Roderick' last='Tezeno'] - </strong>Tezeno is a two sport star who is very good in his "second" sport. He is a player who scores from multiple levels but excels in transition. Tezeno often finishes with a dunk or at the rim. His willingness to score from the mid-range sets him apart from other guards in his class. He is a very good two way player. </p>
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<p><strong>6. [player_tooltip player_id='1679405' first='Javonte' last='Ford'] - </strong>Ford is another player who is a high wire act in the open floor. He has the ability to change ends like a gazelle and his finishing ability is next level. His game has evolved and he can score from the perimeter. However, attacking the rim is where he is at his best. Playing on the NXTPRO circuit this summer may take his game to another level. </p>
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<p><strong>7. [player_tooltip player_id='2415393' first='Le'Damian' last='George'] - </strong>The JS Clark wing is a player who can score, rebound, and distribute. George can attack from the wing, score from the perimeter, and finish in transition. He is a player who is very good at crashing the offensive boards and finishing when he gets it. His willingness to distribute makes him very dangerous at all levels. </p>
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<p><strong>8. [player_tooltip player_id='2434880' first='Dwight' last='Magee'] -</strong> Magee is the best scorer in the top ten. With the ball in his hands, he can create his own shot at every level. Magee is a player who can score in bunches and go on mini-runs of his own. He is a high IQ player who knows how to get others involved. His willingness to distribute will only enhance his play on the floor. </p>
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<p><strong>9. [player_tooltip player_id='1679403' first='Kevin' last='White'] - </strong>White has taken his game to another level as his junior campaign approaches. He is strong attacking the rim and finishes well through contact. His man-to-man defense and rebounding ability as a point guard are what set him apart. White can score at every level. Having the ball in his hands more will be an adjustment for him. However, he should be ready for the responsibility. </p>
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<p><strong>10. [player_tooltip player_id='1225931' first='Randy' last='Livingston Jr']</strong> - Livingston is a natural facilitator. While he gets that trait honestly, he is very good at getting others the ball in scoring positions. Livingston can be aggressive and he knows how to put the ball in the hole. However, passing is his best trait. If he is making the outside shot, he is too hard to guard in the half court. </p>
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<p>Rankings are released four times during the year. This list will expand as the year progresses. Watch for additions and adjustments after the summer travel season and the showcase period is over. </p>
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<p></p>
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Louisiana had another rankings release last week. This time, it was the class of 2026. The top ten in this class is perimeter dominated with guards and wings making up the majority of the spots. We will take a look at the first ten in the 2026 class and review what makes them the best in the class.
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