New England’s 2028 Small Forwards

Will Armishaw May 5, 2025 @ 05:16 PM

Rankings coverage continues for the Class of 2028 with a look at the Small Forward spot.   Below are five prospects of note at the Small Forward position in New England's Class of 2028.   [player_tooltip player_id='2689518' first='Isaac' last='Olaniba']   A 6'8" wing from Mount Saint Charles, Olaniba shines as one of the most impressive physical prospects in the class, combining elite positional size with a big frame, terrific length, and plus athleticism. He has the chance to be an elite defender, guarding up and down a lineup with the ability to make plays in passing lanes and protect the rim as a shot blocker. He's a fluid athlete that runs the floor well in transition and finishes impressively at, and above, the rim.   [player_tooltip player_id='2594613' first='Derek' last='Swartz']   A 6'4" wing from Portsmouth, Swartz was one of the most impactful first years in the public ranks this winter, averaging over 17 points per game. With a well-rounded game on both ends of the floor, he stands out with impressive athleticism and a high basketball IQ. He can score at all three levels, does a nice job of finishing through contact at the rim, and is capable of knocking down shots in catch and shoot situations. He's an impressive rebounder that uses his athleticism and strength to his advantage to make an impact on the defensive glass.   [player_tooltip player_id='2510362' first='Quintin' last='Eason']   A 6'5" wing from St. Paul's, Eason has a versatile offensive game and the tools needed to be an elite defender down the road. He's long and lean, has an impressive wingspan, and looks to have added some strength to his frame this winter. A good athlete, he does a nice job of making plays with the ball in his hands, both as a scorer and facilitator. He can make shots as an off-ball shooter, finishes above the rim as a slasher, and does a nice job of making reads out of ball screens. Defensively, he moves his feet to stay in front of the ball and has the ability to create turnovers at a high rate.   [player_tooltip player_id='2832786' first='Jamaul' last='Padilla']   A 6'2" wing from East Catholic, Padilla burst onto the scene this winter while showing an impressive skill-set and the ability to make tough shots. He's a rugged and strong 6'2", using his physical frame to his advantange as a finisher around the rim. He can get to his spots off the bounce, makes tough shots in the mid-range, and shows an advanced feel as a decision maker out of ball screens. He has good instincts on the defensive end of the floor and the ability to guard up and down a position, while also making an impact as a physical rebounder.   [player_tooltip player_id='2571893' first='Michael' last='Leese']   A 6'3" wing from Newton South, Leese stood out in his first year of high school with his ability to put the ball in the basket, amassing multiple 20+ point games along the way. A 40%+ shooter from behind the arc, he does a great job of getting open without the basketball, utilizing screens as a cutter and showing a good motor as a mover. He makes good decisions with the ball in his hands, playing off two feet, and doing a nice job of limiting his turnovers. He can finish with length at the rim, makes plays as a scorer in the mid-range, and keeps the offense flowing as a passer.   Later this week we'll take a look at the Power Forwards!

Rankings coverage continues for the Class of 2028 with a look at the Small Forward spot.