2027 Rankings Update: Top 10 Power Forwards

The power forward spot is evolving—and Texas' 2027 class is a prime example of that evolution. No longer limited to the paint, today's forwards are expected to stretch the floor, guard multiple positions, and handle the ball in space. This group features a dynamic mix of physical enforcers, high-motor rebounders, and face-up forwards with real perimeter skill. Whether they're rim-running athletes or skilled playmakers in the high post, these power forwards are carving out their roles as modern-day frontcourt anchors with big-time upside.    [player_tooltip player_id='2252473' first='Marcus' last='Spears'] is a high-level athlete with an elite motor and the versatility to play inside and out. He runs the floor with purpose, finishes above the rim with ease, and defends multiple positions. Offensively, he's a mismatch nightmare—capable of taking slower bigs off the dribble or overpowering smaller wings in the paint. Spears is one of the most complete and physically ready forwards in the class.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Explosiveness & Transition Play ✅ Defensive Versatility ✅ Physical Interior Finishing     [player_tooltip player_id='2391007' first='David' last='Baliraine'] is a long, physical big who controls the paint with strength and timing. He's a force on the glass, alters shots defensively, and has shown real touch around the rim. His motor makes him an every-possession impact player, and he continues to develop as a short-roll decision-maker. Baliraine is a frontcourt enforcer with upside.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Rebounding & Shot Altering ✅ Interior Defense ✅ Paint Scoring     [player_tooltip player_id='2252457' first='Marri' last='Wesley'] plays with edge and energy, bringing physicality and toughness to every matchup. He's a productive post scorer with footwork, a developing midrange touch, and strong instincts as a help-side defender. Wesley's versatility allows him to slide between the 3 and 4 spots depending on the matchup. A hard-nosed competitor with winning intangibles.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Post Scoring & Footwork ✅ Defensive Grit ✅ Versatile Matchup Ability     [player_tooltip player_id='2284806' first='Steven' last='McLeod'] is a smooth, skilled forward who excels in face-up situations and can stretch the floor with his jumper. His length gives him defensive range, and he has real potential as a pick-and-pop option. McLeod has the tools to play in modern offensive systems that value space and pace.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Shooting Touch ✅ Face-Up Game ✅ Length & Defensive Mobility     [player_tooltip player_id='1560932' first='Landon' last='Veal'] is an intriguing long-term prospect with elite size, coordination, and flashes of perimeter skill. He finishes well around the rim, rebounds in traffic, and shows glimpses of ball-handling on the break. As he continues to fill out, Veal could become one of the most versatile bigs in the region.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Size & Mobility ✅ Rim Protection ✅ Emerging Offensive Skill     [player_tooltip player_id='2252018' first='Sean' last='Mayberry'] is a rugged interior player who thrives on contact and physical play. He brings toughness to the frontcourt, cleans up the glass, and provides second-chance opportunities. Mayberry's motor and willingness to do the dirty work make him a key glue guy in any lineup.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Rebounding & Physicality ✅ Paint Presence ✅ Energy & Hustle     [player_tooltip player_id='2382175' first='Xavier' last=''] Muhammad may be slightly undersized at the position, but he makes up for it with power, quickness, and relentless effort. He excels at defending the post, is a tough cover on short drives, and finishes well through contact. His physical brand of basketball makes him an X-factor.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Strength & Interior Defense ✅ Short-Area Burst ✅ Finishing Through Contact     [player_tooltip player_id='2251119' first='Shae' last='McCarty'] is a smart, physical forward who understands positioning and how to impact winning. He plays bigger than his size, boxing out well and contesting shots without fouling. Offensively, he's efficient around the basket and a capable passer from the high post.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Basketball IQ ✅ Rebounding Fundamentals ✅ High Post Playmaking     [player_tooltip player_id='2252903' first='Elijah' last='Yarbrough'] is a developing big with strong upside due to his frame, athleticism, and defensive instincts. He moves well laterally, shows flashes of perimeter defense, and has the bounce to protect the rim. Yarbrough's game is still raw, but his physical tools are undeniable.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Defensive Range ✅ Vertical Rim Protection ✅ Mobility     [player_tooltip player_id='2686414' first='Moses' last='Obudo'] is a versatile forward who brings a mix of power and finesse. He can shoot it from midrange, put it on the floor in straight lines, and defend multiple positions. His adaptability allows him to fit different schemes, and his steady motor helps him impact the game even without scoring.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Two-Way Versatility ✅ Midrange Scoring ✅ Switchability

The power forward spot is evolving—and Texas' 2027 class is a prime example of that evolution. No longer limited to the paint, today's forwards are expected to stretch the floor, guard multiple positions, and handle the ball in space. This group features a dynamic mix of physical enforcers, high-motor rebounders, and face-up forwards with real perimeter skill. Whether they're rim-running athletes or skilled playmakers in the high post, these power forwards are carving out their roles as modern-day frontcourt anchors with big-time upside.