2027 Breakouts: Players Who Forced Their Way Into the Rankings

The 2027 class has seen some big risers, with players moving from the watch list or being entirely off the radar that has jumped into the rankings. These guys have clearly been putting in the work, and it shows in their growth and performances on the court. From standout performances at showcases to summer ball, they've made it clear they belong, and they're now names we're excited to keep tracking.    Horizon had no shortage of size this season, and 6'4" wing/forward [player_tooltip player_id='2120949' first='Nate' last='Susi'] quietly became a key piece. He's an elite rebounder who battles for position, keeps possessions alive, and creates second-chance points with pure effort. Susi competes hard, jumps passing lanes, and brought real value to the team. Heading into next season, Horizon will look to him for more consistency, and based on his growth, there's good reason to believe he'll provide it. He was not ranked the last time around but jumps onto the rankings with his play.     [player_tooltip player_id='2048136' first='James' last='Murdock'] might be the most productive player in the class based off of stats last season that people aren't talking about. He averaged an impressive 23.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.7 steals per game, carrying his team on both ends. Murdock scores at all three levels, rebounds over bigger defenders, and pushes the break. This summer, he's been adjusting to playing with other scorers and while it has altered his game a bit, he has still looked productive. When he and his teammates click, Regis Groff will be dangerous.     For Falcon, this past season was about [player_tooltip player_id='2530506' first='Kamrin' last='Lane'] finding his rhythm, and by year's end, he did. Lane is a combo guard who can play on or off the ball, and became a reliable scorer who spaces the floor, pushes tempo, and thrives in transition. Defensively, he stays active and creates plays. He's gone from watch list name to a player making real noise heading into this season and has some momentum.     Centaurus brings back a promising core, and [player_tooltip player_id='2395567' first='Jack' last='Lyle'] will again be a key contributor. One of the team's top rebounders and enforcers down low, Lyle runs the floor hard and finishes well around the rim. He had several standout performances last season and is poised to take another step. Consistency will be key, but Lyle looks ready to keep elevating his game and his role and that is why we had him jump into the rankings from the watch list.     As a two-year varsity player, [player_tooltip player_id='2120966' first='Trace' last='Cook'] showed flashes of breakout potential for one of the conference's top teams. Cook is a versatile scorer, can hit threes, finish in transition, and spark runs with his energy. Cook gives you a little of everything, and his ability to push the break and score with either hand stands out. He's moved from the watch list into the Top 100 for good reason.

The 2027 class has seen some big risers, with players moving from the watch list or being entirely off the radar that has jumped into the rankings. These guys have clearly been putting in the work, and it shows in their growth and performances on the court. From standout performances at showcases to summer ball, they've made it clear they belong, and they're now names we're excited to keep tracking.