South Dakota 2026 Rankings: Marv reaches the top

Spencer Christenson

April 15, 2025 @ 07:35 PM

My thoughts on prospects are ever-changing. I wasn't sure how to view Marvin Richard III Marvin Richard III 6'1" | CG Pine Ridge | 2026 State SD at the beginning of the season. I'm now all-in on his Division I status. I don't want to overreact to one tournament, but Marv looked really special on the court. He's now Prep Hoops Dakotas' #1 ranked South Dakota 2026 prospect.

It was a difficult decision and it's pick your flavor with Ellwein and Marvin. If you need one of the top scoring guards in the nation, then Marv is your guy. If you need a rare 6'9” prospect with guard skills, then Ellwein takes the cake home.

Richard III has had a historic Junior year in South Dakota basketball history, scoring nearly 35 points a game and a 62-point outburst this season at Pine Ridge High School. He already holds a Division I offer from in-state University of South Dakota, along with DII Northern Sate University and new Head Coach Matt Wilber. Wilber may give Marvin the full-court-press treatment and recruit him very hard. I think it's a program-changing move for him, so it's a smart move.

Of all the things he's done, Marvin's first tournament with Hoop City South Dakota at the Heartland Hoopfest may have been his most stock-rising feat. He was unstoppable and smooth, putting up an easy 42-point game. See how impressive Marv was in the 8:40 highlight video above.

He was pulling from three, pull-up game, and finished at contact. He did much more than scoring, as he was a high-level passer and assister. He's one of those scoring guards that will still look to pass, especially when he sees a scoring opportunity for his teammates.

Marv looked quick and explosive on the court. It was evident in his transition play and defensive ability and defensive playmaking. He was able to separate from the defense with speed in transition. He defended the ball-handler hard, looking to take the ball or force errant action. Quick defensive hands and elite instincts.

The top scorer and shot-maker in the state.

The sky is the limit with Marvin Richard III Marvin Richard III 6'1" | CG Pine Ridge | 2026 State SD