SWFL 2026’s To Keep An Eye On This Summer, First Five

With high school season now well behind us, let's take a closer look at some of the area's top players who will look to make a name for themselves over the summer. The 2026 class is loaded with talent and it will be on full display this travel season, not only in SWFL but across the entire state. Keep an eye on these prospects as they continue to grow their game and look to build their stock this offseason and throughout their senior year.    A dual-sport athlete, Powell, has shined both on the field and on the hardwood. The 6'4" CG has great size and strength which allows him to guard multiple positions on defense and and also be a huge asset on the boards. He is a 3-level scorer, who can finish down low through contact, but can also be deadly from deep where he shoots the 3-ball at a very high-rate. Powell is a tremendous 2-way player who just plays the game hard.     Jones is an aggressive guard who's willing to do whatever it takes to get the win. He has excellent handles and can create his own shot, but also has a smooth stroke from the outside to keep the defense honest. Jones plays with a high motor and gives it 100% each time he steps on the floor. The 6'2" SG is a quick, gritty defender, who also rebounds the ball very well from the guard position.     This high-flyer from Port Charlotte seems to have fun every time he steps on the court. He plays the game with energy and passion and never takes a play off. Lambert is a tremendous rebounder on both ends of the floor and won't back down from any assignment on defense. He has the ability to score on all 3-levels, and really excels in the transition game, where he likes to get out and run and play above the rim.     Habing is a force in the middle. The 6'9" big man has tremendous strength, and makes it very difficult for opposing teams to score down low in the paint. He rebounds the ball very well on both ends of the court, and is still continuing to grow as a player. He has the ability to finish down low while absorbing contact with either hand, and also has a soft stroke from the outside for a player his size.     Ettiene has a tremendous basketball IQ and plays the game with a cool, clam demeanor. He is a hardworking prospect who continues to elevate his game. He has great court vision and is always looking to get his teammates involved. The 6'0" CG handles the ball very well and can create his own shot, but is also very efficient playing off the ball, where he has the ability to catch and shoot with little to no space.

With high school season now well behind us, let's take a closer look at some of the area's top players who will look to make a name for themselves over the summer. The 2026 class is loaded with talent and it will be on full display this travel season, not only in SWFL but across the entire state. Keep an eye on these prospects as they continue to grow their game and look to build their stock this offseason and throughout their senior year.