Louisiana Big Men Stepping Up: The Next Wave of Post Dominance

Donald Tatum July 7, 2025 @ 10:03 PM

<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   June in Louisiana marks a crucial period for high school athletes to step back from AAU competition and refocus on their high school programs and teammates. Over the coming weeks, I will be highlighting standout players across various positions and class levels, showcasing those who can anchor a team with their presence in the paint. We'll start with the top bigs in the state—players capable of providing a dominant post presence, securing rebounds, and protecting the rim with shot-blocking ability. These players are essential ingredients for turning good teams into championship contenders.     [player_tooltip player_id='2894330' first='Joab' last='Trosclair'] (Catholic New Iberia)   At 6'10” and packed with athleticism, [player_tooltip player_id='2894330' first='Joab' last='Trosclair'] is one of the most exciting bigs in the state. He checks every box — long, strong, and skilled. He's has the frame to bang with the best of them but can also step out and stroke mid-range jumpers with ease. Joab's combination of physical tools and developing skill set makes him a must-watch this season, as he looks poised to leave his mark at the next level.   D'Nharayane Vital (St. Louis Catholic)   D-Ray Vital, standing at 6'11” and around 235 pounds he turned heads at the recent JSE Event, and for good reason. His size alone is enough to get scouts' attention, but what makes him interesting is how much he uses that size. Strong, fast, and poised, D-Ray patrols the paint with an intimidating presence—blocking shots, grabbing rebounds, and altering opponents' attempts. He has a soft touch around the rim and has already picked up offers from Arizona State, La Tech and Southern along with interest from University of North Carolina and Wake Forest. He's a game-changer for his team.   [player_tooltip player_id='2471569' first='Konner' last='Mason'] (Neville)   Looking quickly like one of the top rising big men in the 2027 class, Mason is a relentless energy force. He controls the paint with athleticism and a never-quit attitude, always working hard around the glass and facilitating for teammates. As his basketball IQ and skill set continue to improve, the hype around Mason is only going to grow—he's destined to move up the ranks with his high motor and developing game.   [player_tooltip player_id='2529529' first='Brennon' last='Moreno'] (St. Thomas More)   Brennan Moreno plays like a throwback – a true big who's just as comfortable battling for rebounds as he is finishing around the rim. He's got the size, the frame, and the skill to dominate inside, and watching him work in Houston recently proved he can handle the physicality required at the next level. With his growth trajectory, Moreno is on track to be a key piece for his team for years to come.   [player_tooltip player_id='2471566' first='Triston' last='Naquin'] (Archbishop Shaw)   Naquin's rise is undeniable. His recent offer from Arizona State shows his stock is climbing fast, and he's earned every bit of the recognition. Over the past couple of seasons, he's been trusted as a role player, but now he's ready to take on more responsibility—scoring, rebounding, and defending with authority. His size and athleticism make him a nightmare on the offensive glass, and his ability to extend possessions could make him a major contributor at the next level.