National Rankings Refresh: Class of 2029 Best of the Rest

Much has changed since the May 2024 unveiling of the Prep Hoops Next National Rankings for the Class of 2029. Now nearly halfway into their eighth-grade campaigns, these prospects are navigating the final stages of their youth basketball journeys before stepping into the high school spotlight.   The PHN staff has crisscrossed the country, attending nearly every major camp and tournament to uncover this group of rising stars. With the updated rankings expanded to feature 50 players, tough decisions were inevitable, leaving a handful of gifted athletes just shy of cracking the list.   Today, we shine a light on the “Best of the Rest” for the Class of 2029. These five prospects have caught our attention with their exceptional skills, relentless work ethic, and undeniable upside, proving that they are poised to challenge for national recognition as their development continues...    Dallas Baldwin is making waves as a lead guard, showcasing noticeable growth over recent months. He's added some muscle to his frame, boosting his physicality on the court. Playing with poise and confidence, Baldwin is thriving as a ball-handler. His vision as a passer stands out, and he's stepping up as a reliable scorer when the situation demands.     Chance Finlayson has emerged as a reliable scoring option at the forward spot, showcasing steady improvement in his offensive game. He's beginning to expand his range, showing flashes of a perimeter threat. Around the rim, Finlayson is a force—comfortable finishing above the basket and thriving in physical play.     Bryce Irby capped off an impressive summer with Ohio Basketball Club and carried that momentum into a productive fall. A quick-twitch athlete with exceptional ball-handling skills, Irby is a dynamic offensive weapon. He thrives as a playmaker, creating opportunities for both himself and his teammates. His ability to impact the game with speed, skill, and creativity makes him a prospect of note.     Austin Leonard is a natural scorer who brings offensive firepower every time he steps on the court. With the ability to create his own shot or score off the catch, he's a consistent threat from anywhere on the floor. Once he finds his rhythm, Leonard can pour in points in bunches, capable of completely shifting the momentum of a game.          Christian Rhodes has emerged as a more polished and well-rounded player the past few months. He has added strength to his frame, enhancing his presence on both ends of the floor. Offensively, Rhodes has found consistency, showing growth in his scoring and decision-making. On defense, he's embraced a leadership role, becoming a vocal anchor for his team and setting the tone with energy and effort.    Stay tuned for more from Prep Hoops Next!

Much has changed since the May 2024 unveiling of the Prep Hoops Next National Rankings for the Class of 2029. Now nearly halfway into their eighth-grade campaigns, these prospects are navigating the final stages of their youth basketball journeys before stepping into the high school spotlight.