2026 Hidden Gems: Forwards

The 2026 class is brimming with untapped potential, particularly among forward prospects who are flying under the radar. These hidden gems are versatile players with skill sets that make them valuable at the next level, whether it's their ability to protect the rim, dominate the glass, or stretch the floor offensively. While they may not yet have the national spotlight, their performances against top competition prove they're ready to make their mark. These forwards combine physical tools, high ceilings, and unique skill sets, making them prospects to watch as they continue to develop.    [player_tooltip player_id='1583467' first='Aziz' last='Olajuwon'] is a versatile 6'7” forward with a polished mid-range game and a high basketball IQ. His footwork and ability to score efficiently in isolation situations reflect his deep understanding of the game. On defense, his timing and length make him a shot-blocking threat and a reliable rebounder.   ✅ Translatable Skills: Mid-Range Scoring, Shot Blocking, Basketball IQ     [player_tooltip player_id='2555019' first='Bryson' last='Howard'] is a high-energy wing who excels in transition and slashing to the rim. His ability to finish through contact and create opportunities for teammates make him a valuable offensive weapon. Defensively, he uses his length and quickness to disrupt opponents on the perimeter. ✅ Translatable Skills: Transition Scoring, Defensive Versatility, Playmaking     [player_tooltip player_id='2476666' first='Aeneas' last='Alexander'] is a tenacious defender with the ability to guard multiple positions. At 6'6”, his athleticism allows him to finish strong at the rim and contribute as a transition scorer. He is steadily developing his outside shot, which will add another dimension to his offensive repertoire. ✅ Translatable Skills: Defense, Transition Scoring, Athleticism     [player_tooltip player_id='2241507' first='Daryus' last='Tasby'] is a solid scoring option with the ability to dominate games in transition. He can knock down three-pointers, attack off the dribble, and finish at the rim with ease. Defensively, he leverages his size and athleticism to lock down opponents.   ✅ Translatable Skills: Three-Level Scoring, On-Ball Defense, Athleticism     [player_tooltip player_id='2243330' first='Jeremy' last='Nyakundi'] is a versatile forward with a strong defensive presence and rebounding ability. Offensively, he is a developing shooter who excels at slashing to the rim. His high motor and hustle make him a consistent contributor.   ✅ Translatable Skills: Defensive Versatility, Rebounding, Slashing       [player_tooltip player_id='2610436' first='Bryant' last='Herring'] is an imposing 6'7” forward known for his dominance in the paint. His shot-blocking and rebounding anchor his team's defense, while his post moves continue to improve. He's also shown promise as a pick-and-roll finisher.   ✅ Translatable Skills: Rim Protection, Rebounding, Interior Scoring     [player_tooltip player_id='2422653' first='Kai' last='Johnson'] is a sharpshooting forward who can light it up from beyond the arc. He moves well without the ball and creates space for himself with screens and off-ball cuts. ✅ Translatable Skills: Three-Point Shooting, Off-Ball Movement, Spacing     [player_tooltip player_id='2554929' first='Paxton' last='Scalf'] is a 6'7" forward with the ability to dominate inside the paint and stretch the floor with his shooting. He is a physically imposing presence on both ends, providing strong rebounding and reliable interior defense. Scalf's size and skill set make him a dual-threat forward, capable of finishing at the rim or stepping out to hit mid-range and three-point shots. His versatility and physicality give him a high upside as a next-level prospect.   ✅ Translatable Skills: Floor Spacing, Interior Defense, Rebounding     [player_tooltip player_id='2554879' first='Ethan' last='Bilyeu'] is a well-rounded 6'9" forward from San Antonio O'Connor who is beginning to get comfortable in his frame. He makes a strong impact on the glass, both offensively and defensively, while also serving as a reliable rim protector in the paint. Offensively, Bilyeu demonstrates versatility with his ability to space the floor, showcasing a developing outside shot to complement his post presence. His growing confidence and skill set make him a promising prospect with plenty of upside for the next level.   ✅ Translatable Skills: Rebounding, Rim Protection, Floor Spacing     [player_tooltip player_id='2554862' first='Lamin' last='Foon'] is a 6'10" rim-to-rim forward who excels as a rebounder and shot-blocker. His size, athleticism, and motor allow him to dominate the paint on both ends of the floor. Defensively, he's a high-impact presence, altering shots and protecting the rim with ease. Offensively, Foon thrives in transition, using his mobility to run the floor and finish strong around the rim. His ability to control the glass and defend the paint makes him a key contributor with tremendous upside.   ✅ Translatable Skills: Rim Protection, Interior Scoring, Rebounding     [player_tooltip player_id='2554864' first='Judah' last='Phillips'] is an impactful interior presence who excels at altering and blocking shots while finishing efficiently around the rim. At his size, he moves with impressive agility, making him a threat in transition and a strong finisher in traffic. His soft touch around the basket and mobility hint at a high ceiling as his game continues to develop. Phillips also brings defensive reliability, using his length and timing to protect the paint effectively. With his combination of physical tools and developing skill set, he has the potential to be a dominant force on both ends of the floor.   ✅ Translatable Skills: Rim Protection, Interior Scoring, Rebounding     [player_tooltip player_id='2554860' first='Samuel' last='Mosquera'] is a well-rounded big man who combines good hands, solid footwork, and a soft touch around the rim. His ability to consistently knock down mid-range jumpers adds a versatile scoring dimension to his game. Mosquera's mobility for his height makes him an intriguing prospect at his position, allowing him to run the floor and defend effectively in transition. His polished skill set and physical tools make him a player with significant potential to impact the game on both ends.   ✅ Translatable Skills: Soft Touch, Mid-Range Scoring, Mobility

The 2026 class is brimming with untapped potential, particularly among forward prospects who are flying under the radar. These hidden gems are versatile players with skill sets that make them valuable at the next level, whether it's their ability to protect the rim, dominate the glass, or stretch the floor offensively. While they may not yet have the national spotlight, their performances against top competition prove they're ready to make their mark. These forwards combine physical tools, high ceilings, and unique skill sets, making them prospects to watch as they continue to develop.