Texas 2026 Rankings Update: Top Centers

The center position is undergoing a renaissance, blending the traditional values of rim protection and post play with modern versatility and skill. No longer just bruisers in the paint, today's elite big men are expected to impact the game on multiple levels—stretching the floor, switching defensively, and making plays in transition. This evolution has not only raised the expectations for centers but also created a new mold for what it means to dominate the middle.   In Texas, a hotbed for basketball talent, the next wave of big men is redefining the position. From towering enforcers who control the glass to stretch bigs who can shoot from deep, these players represent the future of the game. Whether it's their physical tools, skill sets, or potential to develop into stars, this new crop of centers has the basketball world buzzing. Let's dive into the prospects who are poised to carry the torch for the next generation of big men.    [player_tooltip player_id='2431506' first='Coleman' last='Elkins'] is the prototype for a modern center, blending size, skill, and mobility into a complete package. Standing at 6'10” with a strong yet lean frame, Coleman possesses the perfect physical foundation to build upon at the next level. Offensively, he's a polished interior scorer who uses impeccable footwork and soft touch to dominate in the post. His developing mid-range jumper adds another layer to his game, allowing him to stretch defenses and keep opponents on their heels. Whether it's scoring with his back to the basket or stepping out to knock down a shot, Coleman is a multi-dimensional threat.   Defensively, Coleman's timing as a shot blocker is elite, making him a consistent rim protector who alters shots without fouling. His mobility and basketball IQ shine in pick-and-roll defense, as he can seamlessly switch onto guards and hold his own on the perimeter. With his rare balance of traditional post play and modern versatility, Coleman is one of the most intriguing prospects in his class. His ceiling is sky-high, and he's poised to make a significant impact at the collegiate level and beyond.   Translatable Skills ✅ Post Scoring ✅ Shot Blocking ✅ Pick-and-Roll Defense     [player_tooltip player_id='2343838' first='Hudson' last='Lucas'] is a versatile big man with an old-school toughness and a new-school skill set, making him one of the most intriguing prospects in his class. As a power forward/center hybrid, he uses his length to his advantage, impacting the game as a shot-changer and defensive anchor rather than through traditional physicality. What separates him from his peers is his ability to stretch the floor with flashes of an outside shot, particularly from the corner, and his budding guard-like ball skills. Relentless on the glass, Hudson capitalizes on his size and timing to grab rebounds and create second-chance opportunities, while showing finesse and soft touch on his finishes around the rim.   Dubbed "Baby Chet" for his similarities to a young Chet Holmgren, Hudson has a slight frame but boasts blossoming athleticism, guard skills, and the length to make life difficult for opponents on both ends of the floor. He's nimble enough to step out and contest shots on the perimeter while remaining an imposing presence inside due to his ability to alter shots and disrupt drives. Hudson is not only the biggest stock riser among forwards and centers but arguably in the entire class. His rapid development, unique skill set, and ability to change the game without brute force position him as a cornerstone piece for any high-level program.   Translatable Skills ✅ Shot Alteration ✅ Post Moves ✅ Floor Spacing     [player_tooltip player_id='2231892' first='Wyatt' last='Seale'] is an intriguing prospect regardless of class, possessing a rare combination of size, skill, and upside that sets him apart on any stage. At 6'11”, Wyatt has the foundation to be a dominant post scorer with his polished footwork, soft hands, and ability to finish around the rim. His potential as a stretch 5 is equally exciting, as he shows flashes of a developing jumper that could make him a versatile offensive weapon. While his athleticism is still catching up to his frame, his coordination and movement already stand out for a player his size.   Defensively, Wyatt plays with discipline and intelligence, using his length to alter shots and protect the paint. His understanding of positioning and timing make him a reliable anchor, even as his physical tools continue to develop. Wyatt's combination of post scoring, defensive fundamentals, and the potential to stretch the floor make him a truly special prospect who will command attention at every level.   Translatable Skills ✅ Post Scoring ✅ Shot Alteration ✅ Floor Spacing     [player_tooltip player_id='2333772' first='Daniel' last='Ogoemeka'] stands out as the most athletically gifted 7-footer in his class, possessing an exceptional blend of size, length, and raw athleticism that makes him a unique force on the court. Despite being relatively new to basketball, he has shown remarkable progress and is rapidly learning how to influence the game on both ends. Currently, Daniel thrives as a rim-to-rim big, using his athleticism to protect the paint, clean the glass, and finish emphatically around the basket. He's a reliable defensive anchor and enforcer who sets the tone with his presence.   What makes Daniel truly special is his ceiling. At 7'0”, with his athletic gifts, he has the potential to develop into one of the top interior forces in the country. As he continues to refine his skills and build his offensive repertoire, his upside positions him to become a top-5 prospect by the time he graduates. If he commits to consistently dominating the interior, Daniel's combination of size, athleticism, and rapid improvement could make him one of the most impactful centers of his class.   Translatable Skills ✅ Rim Protection ✅ Transition Play ✅ Interior Presence

The center position is undergoing a renaissance, blending the traditional values of rim protection and post play with modern versatility and skill. No longer just bruisers in the paint, today's elite big men are expected to impact the game on multiple levels—stretching the floor, switching defensively, and making plays in transition. This evolution has not only raised the expectations for centers but also created a new mold for what it means to dominate the middle.