The Driftless 200: 6-10

The Driftless 200 is down to the final two groups, spotlighting the top-tier talent from 14 conferences across southwestern and west-central Wisconsin. As emphasized in earlier posts, all players in the Driftless 200 are standouts who have the opportunity to play at the next level. But make no mistake, these final groups of hoopers are truly elite, ranking within the top 10 prospects in a region with approximately 1,300 varsity basketball players. This high level of recognition reflects not only their exceptional performance but also their potential to make a significant impact at the next level of competition.   Prep Hoops rankings prioritize projecting players' success beyond high school, evaluating attributes such as athleticism, size, position-specific skills, game IQ, toughness, and intangibles like body language. While high school stats and performance contribute to assessments, the rankings are primarily focused on how a player's skills and physical traits translate to college-level competition. Every player in this elite tier has earned additional recognition through standout performances in AAU and summer leagues, further solidifying their status as the very best in the region. Click <a href="https://prephoops.com/how-we-rank/">here</a> to read more on how Prep Hoops ranks.   Rankings are dynamic, reflecting each player's growth, evolving team roles, and new opportunities. Here, within the final groupings of the Driftless 200, there is additional scrutiny on individual distinctions, with the final slotting incorporating significant consideration of Prep Hoops class rankings, which are based on input from multiple scouts. The athletes in this elite group are listed alphabetically within their tier.    Moving into his sophomore year at Altoona, this quick and athletic 6'2" guard made a significant impact last season, establishing himself as one of the class of 2027's rising stars. Becker showcased a reliable scoring touch, including a 35.3% three-point shooting percentage, and averaged double digits in points. His 2.2 assists per game demonstrated his ability to drop dimes and showcased his overall playmaking ability and court vision. Adding to his versatility, Becker grabbed 3.4 rebounds per game while maintaining an overall shooting percentage of 44% from the field. His combination of ability, grittiness and game feel, along with statistical successes as an underclassman signals a high ceiling as he continues to develop.     Averaging 15.8 points per game last season, [player_tooltip player_id='1890447' first='Logan' last='Becker'] was a critical player in Aquinas High School's successes, all the way to the State semi-finals. This junior is a dynamic scorer and reliable shooter, stretching defenses by hitting 36% from beyond the arc, while also showcasing the ability to drive to the hole and play above the rim. His defensive impact stands out with 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks per game, putting his exceptional athleticism to work as he disrupts opponents' offensive plans. Becker also contributed 3.9 rebounds per game as a sophomore, adding valuable support on the boards. He is a hard-working, extremely versatile athlete and a high character team leader who produces in every facet of the game when he steps on the hardwood.     [player_tooltip player_id='1417497' first='Preston' last='Johnson'] excels as an exceptional passer with supreme court vision, averaging 4.7 assists per game last season while also contributing as a double-digit scorer. His unselfish play on the offensive end extends to his team-first effort defensively, notably swiping 1.3 steals per game. Johnson plays with determination, hustle and strong instincts, which make him a plus defensive player for the Wildcats. Adding 2.8 rebounds per game, despite spending most of his time on the perimeter, he finds ways to impact multiple facets of the game. A well-rounded player and floor general, he combines his passing mastery, defense, and scoring skills with leadership, to elevate his team's performance.     A game-changing talent for Rice Lake, Orr excels as both a scorer and playmaker, having averaged 18.6 points per game on an efficient .468 field goal percentage last season. He steps into his senior season with a confident approach from deep, often splashing triples from well beyond the arc. He'll also knock down shots from mid-range and will drive to the hoop with determination. His 3.2 assists per game highlight his exceptional ability to find open teammates and get them the rock with creativity and precision. On defense, Orr uses strong instincts to jump passes and frustrate ballhandlers to accumulate 1.8 steals per game. He also contributed 4 rebounds per game, adding versatility to his well-rounded skill set.     Risler is a standout hooper at Regis who can fill it up. A long, 6'3" guard, he averaged 20.3 points per game last season, demonstrating his exceptional scoring prowess over the course of his sophomore campaign. His solid 35.4% three-point shooting percentage reflects his ability to connect from long range and spread the floor for the Ramblers as a result. With 2.1 assists per game, Risler keeps opposing offenses off-balance, capitalizing on available opportunities to feed his teammates. He has strong court instincts, contributes with effective defense and got to the glass for 2.1 rebounds per game last season. His all-around play and proven ability make him a player to watch closely as the 2024-25 season unfolds.

The Driftless 200 is down to the final two groups, spotlighting the top-tier talent from 14 conferences across southwestern and west-central Wisconsin. As emphasized in earlier posts, all players in the Driftless 200 are standouts who have the opportunity to play at the next level. But make no mistake, these final groups of hoopers are truly elite, ranking within the top 10 prospects in a region with approximately 1,300 varsity basketball players. This high level of recognition reflects not only their exceptional performance but also their potential to make a significant impact at the next level of competition.