The Driftless 200: 51-75

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Let's continue to dig into the hoopers within 15 conferences and 107 schools encapsulated within my definition of the Driftless Region of Wisconsin. Be sure to check out my previous posts with additional players I've selected from the Big Rivers, Cloverbelt-West, Coulee, Dairyland, Dunn-St. Croix, Lakeland-West, Middle Border, Mississippi Valley, Ridge &amp; Valley, Scenic Bluffs, Six Rivers-West, South Central, and Southwest Wisconsin Conferences, as well as the Southwest Wisconsin Activities League.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>When reading the list or players, know that Prep Hoops rankings emphasize a player's potential at the next level, focusing on athleticism, size, position-specific skills, game IQ, effort, toughness, and intangibles like body language. Scouts may prioritize factors differently, but size and athleticism are key. While high school performance and stats matter, they don't solely determine rankings; instead, we assess skills, athletic ability, and body type for college-level potential. We also scout and evaluate many of these players on the Prep Hoops AAU Circuit. You can read more on how we rank, <a href="https://prephoops.com/how-we-rank/#:~:text=Tips%20to%20improve%20your%20chances%20of%20being%20seen%2C,scouts.%20...%204%20Excel%20on%20social%20media.%20">here</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Rankings are fluid, reflecting player growth and team dynamics. Players who develop in skill, conditioning, or leadership often rise in the Prep Hoops rankings. Some had limited time last season due to strong upperclassmen but will now step into larger roles. Conversely, others who thrived last year may find it challenging to keep their rank as competition intensifies or roles shift.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Driftless 200 is presented in groups. The difference between players ranked in close proximity is often minimal, so the athletes in this list are grouped in tiers rather than assigned specific ranking numbers. The players within this group are listed alphabetically by last name. As I move towards the top of the Driftless 200, the groupings will become smaller and the details on each player will be expanded.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1874969' first='Drew' last='Aschliman'] | 2026 | 6'2 | Mineral Point | SWAL</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Aschliman is an efficient scorer who consistently makes a high percentage of shots from the field and excels at draining the deep ball. He is also a strong presence on the defensive end for the Pointers, demonstrating good shot-blocking abilities in particular.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2432845' first='Jayden' last='Brown'] | 2025 | 6'5 | Grantsburg | Lakeland-West</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>This 6'5" senior brings a well-rounded skillset to the game, combining outstanding scoring ability from all three levels with impressive assist numbers. Defensively, [player_tooltip player_id='2432845' first='Jayden' last='Brown'] is a strong contributor, effectively generating steals and applying pressure on opponents.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2493671' first='Channing' last='Brown'] | 2025 | 6'1 | Ithaca | Ridge &amp; Valley</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>With a well-rounded game, [player_tooltip player_id='2493671' first='Channing' last='Brown'] excels as an exceptional scorer and is an assist master, consistently dropping dimes for teammates. He also has excellent defensive instincts which lead him to a high quantity of steals, making him a valuable asset on both ends of the court.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2432857' first='Synclair' last='Byus'] | 2025 | 6'3 | Luther | Coulee</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>At 6'3", Byus combines a strong all-around game with the offensive firepower to score in double digits. He has a knack for setting up teammates for their own scoring opportunities and is also effective on the defensive end, consistently disrupting opponents by racking up steals.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2140922' first='Gavin' last='Carufel'] | 2027 | 5'10 | River Falls | Big Rivers</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>After a season gaining varsity experience on a strong River Falls team, this emerging 2027 guard is poised to take on a larger role. Carufel had a productive AAU season with the [program_tooltip program_id='2076033' first='Wisconsin' last='Playmakers'], signaling growth and readiness for increased minutes in the upcoming high school season.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2493670' first='Noah' last='Chenault'] | 2025 | 6'2 | Onalaska | MVC</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Chenault is a high-percentage shooter who combines efficient scoring with strong playmaking, including an impressive bag of passes that he will use to register a high number of assists per game. Defensively, he is another player who will turn over the opponent on the regular, adding to his well-rounded game.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2501092' first='Brandon' last='Davis'] | 2026 | 5'10 | River Ridge | SWC</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>A versatile 5'10" junior, Davis contributes as a consistent double-digit scorer and is another assist master, regularly creating opportunities for teammates. His defensive instincts are outstanding, frequently disrupting opponents with well-timed steals.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2500048' first='Nathan' last='Dillaber'] | 2026 | 6'0 | West Salem | Coulee</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Dillaber made an impact for the Panthers last season, starting about half of the games and proving effective from beyond the arc. He also shows up with focused defensive intensity, consistently contributing with steals and pressuring opponents on the perimeter.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2389764' first='Karson' last='Galvez'] | 2026 | 6'3 | McDonnell Central | Cloverbelt-West</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Standing 6'3", this reliable junior was a key starter and strong rebounder, giving his team an edge on both ends of the floor. Galvez also showed consistency as a solid shooter from the field, adding dependable scoring as an asset for the Macks.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2493662' first='Jacob' last='Hackbarth'] | 2025 | 6'5 | Logan | MVC</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Hackbarth showcases a strong all-around game, consistently contributing as a double-digit scorer and an efficient shooter from the field. His defensive prowess is highlighted by his highly skilled shot-blocking ability, making him a formidable presence on both ends of the court.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2406622' first='Caleb' last='Irlbeck'] | 2026 | 6'4 | Osceola | Middle Border</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>This athletic junior shoots it at a high percentage from the field, making him an offensive threat at multiple spots on the hardwood. In addition, Irlbeck is another shot-blocking presence who can protect the rim effectively either in the post or by running down an opponent on a fast-break.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2425816' first='Landon' last='Lipke'] | 2025 | 6'7 | Royall | Scenic Bluffs</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>As a high-percentage shooter, Lipke consistently converts opportunities from the field, showcasing his offensive reliability for the Panthers. Standing at 6'7", he is a formidable presence in the paint, turning away a high number of shots per game.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2501090' first='Cooper' last='Lomas'] | 2026 | 6'2 | Wauzeka-Steuben | Ridge &amp; Valley</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>With a strong all-around game, Lomas excels as an exceptional scorer while also contributing significantly with impressive assist numbers. His defensive skills are highlighted by his ability to generate steals, showcasing his versatility and impact as a two-way player.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2390086' first='Cooper' last='Mittermeyer'] | 2025 | 5'11 | McDonnell Central | Cloverbelt-West</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Mittermeyer boasts a well-rounded skill set, consistently putting up double-digit points from his guard position. He effectively facilitates his teammates' scoring opportunities, racking up assists, while also demonstrating strong defensive prowess with his ability to create steals.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2500056' first='Max' last='Monteith'] | 2026 | 6'0 | Prescott | Middle Border</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>After contributing solid minutes for a strong Prescott team last season, this Monteith has established himself as a dependable player for the Cardinals. He showed the ability to score and rebound in his sophomore campaign and poised to step up his role this year.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1976781' first='Brody' last='Olson'] | 2026 | 6'6 | Glenwood City | Dunn-St. Croix</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>With a well-rounded skill set, this 6'6" junior combines exceptional scoring ability with impressive playmaking and athleticism. Defensively, Olson brings a strong presence as a highly skilled shot blocker, and on offense he is also an adept passer, dishing to his teammates for assists. </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2391100' first='Myles' last='Sinette'] | 2025 | 6'1 | Altoona | Middle Border</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Sinette delivers a strong all-around game, consistently putting up double-digit points and setting up teammates with his exceptional passing. His defensive skill shines through his knack for steals, making him a key contributor on both ends of the court.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1878607' first='Cade' last='Stasiek'] | 2025 | 6'0 | Spring Valley | Dunn-St. Croix</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Another player with a strong all-around game, Stasiek stands out as an outstanding scorer who adds more than just scoring to power the offense. He has keen court vision which he uses to dish assists to teammates. His defensive abilities are highlighted by his talent for turning over opponents at a high clip. </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2501099' first='Nick' last='Stellrecht'] | 2026 | 6'4 | New Richmond | Big Rivers</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Stellrecht is a defensive powerhouse, combining a strong ability to force steals with solid shot-blocking skills. His presence on the court disrupts opponents' plays, making him a key asset on the defensive end. He's also a steady contributor on offense for the Tigers. </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2224510' first='Finley' last='Strom'] | 2026 | 6'1 | Aquinas | MVC</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>This long and lean 6'1" junior made an impression last season, earning valuable minutes on a talented Aquinas team. With a smooth stroke, Strom is emerging as a reliable outside threat as he continues to develop his game in the 2026 class.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2493674' first='Hughson' last='Thatcher'] | 2025 | 6'0 | River Valley | SWC</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>This 6'0" senior showcases a well-rounded game, consistently scoring in double digits while delivering strong assist numbers. Thatcher's defensive prowess, especially in swiping steals, makes him a versatile asset on both offense and defense.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2501110' first='Arlon' last='Walter'] | 2026 | 6'6 | Kickapoo | Ridge &amp; Valley</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Standing at 6'6", Walter combines a versatile skill set with strong shooting from the field, bringing consistent scoring inside the paint. His defensive impact is equally impressive, with outstanding shot-blocking abilities that make him a powerful presence around the rim.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2493653' first='Jaren' last='Ward'] | 2025 | 6'7 | Wisconsin Dells | South Central</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Ward excels on both ends of the court, using his length to his advantage, with exceptional steal numbers and skilled shot-blocking at 6'7". He also contributes as a consistent double-digit scorer on offense, making him a challenging all-around matchup when the Chiefs take the floor.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2121317' first='Taylor' last='Williams'] | 2026 | 6'3 | Lancaster | SWC</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>With a balanced offensive/defensive game, Williams consistently scores in double digits and showcases impressive assist numbers. He brings strong defensive capabilities to the hardwood, especially in creating steals as an on-ball defender and through jumping passing lanes.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2492770' first='Masyn' last='Wolf'] | 2025 | 6'7 | Spring Valley | Dunn-St. Croix</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>This senior stands 6'7" and contributes to the Cardinals with a high shooting percentage from the field, making him a reliable scoring threat. Defensively, Wolf patrols the lane as a good shot blocker, helping to protect the rim and disrupt opponents' offenses.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->