Class of 2029: National Stock Risers (WGs - Pt. 1)

Following the release of the Prep Hoops Next National Wing Guard Rankings, the deep dive into the Class of 2029 continues. While point guards are often relied on to initiate the offense, the complementary backcourt role features game-changers who are counted on to impact both ends of the floor with scoring and playmaking versatility.   In this first installment of the “National Stock Risers” series for the “WG” position, also referred to as “Shooting Guards”, “Two-Guards”, “Off-Guards”, etc., we spotlight five up-and-coming prospects within the Top 25 nationally at this position who deserve closer evaluation...    CJ Ani is a versatile wing player who combines skill and effort on both ends of the floor. He has great footwork in the paint, allowing him to create space and finish strong through contact in traffic. Offensively, his scoring has become more consistent as his jump shot continues to be really smooth. He has also become more efficient from the mid-range and beyond the arc. His defensive presence is highlighted by his quick hands, frequently forcing turnovers and disrupting opponents' rhythm. Ani's overall two-way production has helped his status in the class of 2029 as he continues to show why he is a top prospect from the west coast.     King Araujo is a skilled and dynamic wing guard with a quick handle and exceptional court vision, which has allowed him to create opportunities for himself and his teammates on a more consistent basis. He is talented at getting to the rim, finishing with a soft touch even in traffic. His offensive game is further complemented by his reliability as a shooter, consistently knocking down shots from mid-range and beyond the arc. With his ability to score more frequently, facilitate, and play with poise, Araujo is looking to have a productive spring with Jet Academy in the coming months.     Jalonny Billingsley uses his length effectively to both disrupt opponents and create scoring opportunities. He's shifty with the ball, able to navigate through defenses and change direction quickly. In transition, he finishes with control and efficiency, often capitalizing on fast-break opportunities. His strength in traffic allows him to finish through contact, while his ability to extend his game beyond the arc makes him a versatile offensive threat. His all-around skill set has improved in the recent months which makes him a dynamic player for which will bode well for Mac Irivn this spring.     Over the past few months, Travis Clegg has been one of the top consistent two-way impactful players for Team Takeover. At the rim, he's a crafty finisher, using a variety of moves to score through contact or in tight spaces. Offensively, he can extend his game to all three levels, knocking down shots from beyond the arc, mid-range, and finishing strong inside. His versatility as a scorer, combined with his speed, makes him a dynamic and impactful player for Team Takeover who will once again look to be one of the top teams this year.     Braeden Greenup is an explosive player with a solid handle on the ball, allowing him to break down defenses and get to the rim. He finishes with a mix of strength and craft, scoring through contact or with finesse around defenders. Offensively he has taken his game to a new level by adding more versatility in his scoring. Defensively, he's relentless on the ball, applying pressure and disrupting his opponent's rhythm more than he ever has which helped him in the latest ranking update.    Stay tuned for more from Prep Hoops Next!

Following the release of the Prep Hoops Next National Wing Guard Rankings, the deep dive into the Class of 2029 continues. While point guards are often relied on to initiate the offense, the complementary backcourt role features game-changers who are counted on to impact both ends of the floor with scoring and playmaking versatility.