Power Moves: 2026 Forwards & Bigs Boosting Their stock

With the high school season now in the books, it's the perfect time to spotlight some of the players who took their game to the next level. Whether it was stepping into bigger roles, expanding their skill sets, or turning heads with consistent production, these prospects made real strides throughout the year and raised their stock in a noticeable way.    He showed all year that physical play didn't bother him. Finishing the season with over 400 points, he consistently played through contact and gave his team a strong interior presence. Scored effectively with his back to the basket, rebounded well, and stretched the floor with both mid-range jumpers and some threes. His toughness and versatility stood out throughout the season.     A lefty prospect with good size and great length, he made his mark as a shot blocker and shot alterer all season-long. He helped anchor Highland's defense, consistently protecting the rim and making it tough for opponents to score inside. Ran the floor well in transition and showed a nice touch from the high post, adding value on both ends.     Brought a solid frame and physical presence inside, finishing efficiently around the rim with soft touches and dunks inside. Controlled the glass throughout the season and even showed flashes of range by stepping out and knocking down the three.     A physical forward who embraced the dirty work all season long, he was a key piece on both ends of the floor. He showed the ability to score from multiple levels—knocking down mid-range jumpers, stretching the floor with the three, and finishing strong around the rim. His toughness stood out inside, where he battled for boards and consistently came up with second-chance opportunities. Defensively, he made his presence felt with blocking shots, altering attempts, and cleaning up defensive breakdowns. He stayed active on both ends, running the floor in transition and consistently putting himself in position to make impact plays.     One of the most complete players I've seen in this class. He truly does it all—rebounding, handling the ball, and defending both on the perimeter and in the paint. Offensively, he's a three-level scorer who can knock down threes, hit mid-range jumpers, and finish athletic attacks at the rim. His court vision stands out as well, often creating opportunities for others. In transition, he's a major threat—pushing the pace and making smart decisions that lead to easy buckets. His all-around impact was on full display all season long.     An impact player on both ends of the floor, he consistently brought energy and production throughout the season. He rebounded the ball well, often securing key boards to start transition opportunities. Offensively, he was a threat from deep—knocking down threes at a 38% clip and spacing the floor effectively. His ability to contribute on both sides made him a valuable piece in his team's success this year.     A smooth operator with the ball in his hands, he showed great control both in the half-court and in transition. With a strong, solid frame, he was able to absorb contact on downhill drives and still finish plays. Offensively, he scored it from all three levels—knocking down threes, hitting mid-range shots, and finishing above the rim.     A skilled lefty with a soft touch around the basket, he scored effectively with his back to the rim—using hooks, layups, and great footwork to get quality looks. This season, he also showed the ability to stretch the floor, knocking down threes and keeping defenses honest. His blend of inside presence and emerging perimeter game made him a reliable offensive option throughout the year.

With the high school season now in the books, it's the perfect time to spotlight some of the players who took their game to the next level. Whether it was stepping into bigger roles, expanding their skill sets, or turning heads with consistent production, these prospects made real strides throughout the year and raised their stock in a noticeable way.