Which 2028s Are Poised to Make Noise This Season?

The 2028 class in Colorado is shaping up to be one of the deepest in recent memory, particularly with the number of versatile, emerging prospects making early impressions. While some names are already gaining recognition across the state, this spotlight focuses on a group of underclassmen whose freshman campaigns laid a strong foundation. With continued development, these players are expected to make significant strides heading into their sophomore seasons.    Zach Summeril stands out not just because of his production, but also for being one of the few featured 3A players in this class. At 6'4, he uses his frame exceptionally well to impact the game on both ends. He averaged 13.7 points and 6.7 rebounds per game, among the best statistical seasons for a 2028 prospect. Summeril plays with a nonstop motor, carving out extra possessions for his team through hustle plays and offensive rebounds. His physicality in the paint made him a consistent mismatch for smaller defenders, while his ability to finish through contact showed real polish for a freshman. What's most impressive is that he led by example and took on a heavy scoring load without forcing the action. As Woodland Park builds its identity, Summeril is emerging as the cornerstone and if his development continues at this rate, he'll soon be one of the most talked-about players in his classification statewide.     [player_tooltip player_id='2470673' first='Demetrius' last='Lambert'] provided a spark for the gritty Overland program, which prides itself on intensity and toughness. Standing at 6'3 with long arms and a wiry frame, Lambert showed glimpses of the kind of impact player he could become. He averaged 5.6 points and nearly three rebounds per game, mainly coming off the bench, but his contributions often exceeded the stat sheet. Lambert understands his role, doesn't try to do too much, and plays with purpose. His game is still raw, but the foundation is there: high motor, defensive awareness, and the ability to swing momentum with hustle plays. What separates him is his poise; he doesn't chase highlights, he makes the right plays, and those highlights just come. As he continues to add polish to his offensive game and grows into his body, Lambert has a real shot to elevate his role next season. He's the kind of player who, once it clicks, becomes a problem, and we're seeing that with a stellar start to grassroots.     [player_tooltip player_id='2724172' first='Javaree' last='Paris'] might be one of the most intriguing risers in the class. He's a rugged athlete who plays with a chip on his shoulder and a nonstop motor. Paris had a strong freshman campaign, putting up 9.1 points and 7.6 rebounds per game. These are eye-opening numbers for a first-year varsity player. He consistently played bigger than his size, attacking the glass, defending multiple positions, and doing the dirty work that doesn't always show up in highlight reels. His offensive game is still evolving, but his confidence is never in question. Paris embraces physicality and brings energy to every possession. With help on the way to Regis Groff's roster this year, expect the game to come even easier for him, opening up more opportunities to showcase his skill. His effort and toughness alone keep him on the floor, but if his touch and decision-making continue to improve, he's going to be a key piece on a team looking to make real noise.     [player_tooltip player_id='2396584' first='Bahati' last='Langford'] is a player who excels in a variety of areas and does it well. He brings a uniquely balanced game that continues to evolve with each step he takes on the court. At his best when attacking downhill, Langford uses his strength and body control to finish through contact and create problems for defenders in space. But don't overlook his ability to stretch the floor he has shown flashes of range that keep defenses honest. What stands out most is his ability to sense mismatches and capitalize on them quickly. Whether bringing the ball up, defending multiple positions, or crashing the glass, Langford's versatility gives coaches a lot to work with. He's steadily earning his way into more responsibility at George Washington, and if his confidence keeps trending up, he could take a significant step forward this season. Langford has all the tools, now it's about stringing it all together consistently.     [player_tooltip player_id='2381951' first='Clayton' last='Kalimba'] is the kind of two-way player every winning team needs. With a smooth midrange pull-up, the ability to create off the dribble, and a growing reputation as a tough-shot maker, Kalimba's offensive game is hard to contain. He's confident with the ball in his hands, finishes through contact with either hand, and thrives in catch-and-shoot scenarios. Defensively, he brings energy and anticipation, turning turnovers into instant offense. His skill set allows him to exploit mismatches, and he plays with a competitive edge that's hard to teach. Coming off a state championship season, Eaglecrest will have a target on its back, and Kalimba's ability to provide scoring, spacing, and defensive pressure will be critical. With opponents keying in on the returning stars, players like Kalimba will have opportunities to step into bigger roles. If he continues to develop on both ends, expect his name to rise in conversations about the class's top combo guards.     [player_tooltip player_id='2391203' first='Grant' last='Lewis'] emerged as one of the most productive and consistent freshman guards on the Western Slope. On a Grand Junction team that leaned on upperclassmen, Lewis still carved out a major role, averaging 9.3 points per game while shooting an impressive 37% from three. He moves exceptionally well without the ball, finding open seams and cutting into scoring lanes. As a catch-and-shoot threat, he demands defensive attention, but he's also shown the ability to put the ball on the floor and make reads when chased off the line. His spacing and shooting ability create a gravitational pull that makes life easier for his teammates, and he already plays with a mature understanding of offensive flow. Grand Junction is expected to take a step forward this season, and Lewis will be a big reason why. If his trajectory continues, he's likely to establish himself as one of the most dependable and dangerous perimeter players in the class.

The 2028 class in Colorado is shaping up to be one of the deepest in recent memory, particularly with the number of versatile, emerging prospects making early impressions. While some names are already gaining recognition across the state, this spotlight focuses on a group of underclassmen whose freshman campaigns laid a strong foundation. With continued development, these players are expected to make significant strides heading into their sophomore seasons.