Rankings Update: 2028 Underrated High IQ Point Guards

As a group, these guards—Zach, Maurice, Dre, Dallan, and Sunjay—bring a high level of basketball IQ that often flies under the radar. Each of them sees the game with clarity and makes the right reads in real time, whether it's setting up teammates, anticipating defensive rotations, or staying composed under pressure. Their decision-making, poise, and understanding of the game elevate their teams in ways that don't always show up on the stat sheet. Though they might be slightly underrated, their impact is undeniable—true floor generals who make everyone around them better.    [player_tooltip player_id='2625154' first='Zach' last='Payne'] may be a small guard for Midtown, but he plays with heart and hustle well beyond his size. Known for his gritty on-ball defense, Zach takes pride in locking down opposing guards and setting the tone on that end of the floor. Offensively, he's a true pass-first point guard who looks to get his teammates involved early and often, keeping the ball moving and making smart decisions. His leadership, unselfish play, and defensive intensity make him a key piece of Midtown's backcourt.     [player_tooltip player_id='2788913' first='Maurice' last='Hall'] plays the game with a smooth, effortless rhythm that sets him apart. He has a natural flow to his game, moving with purpose and poise whether he's handling the ball or working off it. What makes Maurice special is his basketball IQ—he's always thinking a step ahead, reading the defense and anticipating what comes next. That vision allows him to consistently make the right plays, whether it's setting up a teammate, finding an open lane, or making a smart defensive rotation. Calm under pressure and sharp in decision-making, Maurice brings a composed, cerebral presence to the floor.     Dre plays the game with unmatched passion and heart, bringing energy to every possession for his HOH team. He leaves it all on the floor, leading by example and inspiring those around him with his relentless effort. But Dre isn't just about intensity—he's a thinker, always analyzing the game and staying ten steps ahead of the competition. Whether it's anticipating a defensive rotation, setting up the perfect play, or outsmarting his matchup, Dre plays with a high-level understanding that elevates his entire team. His mix of fire and foresight makes him the heartbeat of HOH.       Dallan, a crafty lefty with a high basketball IQ, brings a sharp mind and smooth skillset to both ends of the floor. Offensively, he sees the game at a high level, making smart decisions and creating opportunities with patience and precision. On the defensive end, his intelligence really shines—he reads plays before they happen, beats opponents to their spots, and has a knack for stripping the ball clean with quick hands. Whether he's setting up a play or shutting one down, Dallan uses his IQ to stay a step ahead and make a major impact every time he's on the court.     Sunjay plays with control and discipline, always taking care of the ball and making smart, efficient decisions. He values each possession, rarely forcing plays and always looking to keep his team steady. On the defensive end, he brings focus and effort, staying locked in and making life difficult for his matchup. But when it's time to score, Sunjay knows exactly how to pick his moments—getting to his spots with confidence and knocking down shots when it counts. His balance of composure, defense, and timely scoring makes him a reliable presence on the floor.

As a group, these guards—Zach, Maurice, Dre, Dallan, and Sunjay—bring a high level of basketball IQ that often flies under the radar. Each of them sees the game with clarity and makes the right reads in real time, whether it's setting up teammates, anticipating defensive rotations, or staying composed under pressure. Their decision-making, poise, and understanding of the game elevate their teams in ways that don't always show up on the stat sheet. Though they might be slightly underrated, their impact is undeniable—true floor generals who make everyone around them better.