2026 Watch: Fast-Rising Prospects Making Moves

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1420408' first='Jacob' last='Pleyer'] | G | The Rock | @PleyerJacob</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Pleyer has transformed his frame and output, helping The Rock jump out to a 2-0 start at The Hoop Vibe Fall League. A proven shooter, he's now added strength to finish through contact at the rim while locking in defensively. His ability to score without needing plays run for him makes him a valuable piece in any system.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2522744' first='Justus-Dylan' last='Herbert'] | F | Cardinal Gibbons | @_justusdylan</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Herbert brings athleticism and activity to the frontcourt. He rebounds at a high rate, finishes above the rim, and has the touch to stretch defenses. That blend of inside-out ability makes him one of the more intriguing stretch-forward options in his class.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1633116' first='Michael' last='Madueme'] | Wing | Lake Highland Prep | @MaduemeMichael</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Madueme stands out with his two-way versatility. The 6-4 wing impacts the game on both ends, rebounding in traffic, pushing the break, and attacking the basket with power. He has the tools to be one of the more underrated but consistent threats in Florida's 2026 class.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2299674' first='Thok' last='Gol'] | F | Victory Christian | @thok_Gol</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Gol has made steady strides since returning from injury. The 6-7 forward is showing confidence in his jumper, putting the ball on the floor, and staying aggressive around the rim. His length and mobility allow him to impact both ends, and his long-term upside remains very intriguing.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2415592' first='Jacari' last='Lofton'] | F | Edgewater | @Cariwitda3</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Lofton's athleticism and energy give him the ability to swing games. He's quick off his feet, relentless on the glass, and finishes strong above the rim. Offensively, he's starting to add more to his game by attacking closeouts and handling contact better around the basket.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2217915' first='Jayden' last='Aristile'] | G | Seminole | @iayden7</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Aristile has seen his confidence and production grow this offseason. He uses his quickness and footwork to create separation, with a pull-up jumper that's becoming more reliable. As he strings together complete outings, his stock continues to rise.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2415600' first='Felix' last='Buroz'] | G | North Broward Prep | @Felixburoz</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Buroz is one of the more dependable perimeter creators in this class. He thrives in up-tempo play, where his vision and timing allow him to set up teammates or get his own shot. His motor and high basketball IQ consistently shine.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1660037' first='Willie' last='Piggot Jr.'] | Wing | Tampa Catholic</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Piggot's athleticism jumps off the floor. He runs hard in transition, finishes above the rim, and is showing flashes of secondary playmaking. As his handle and reads continue to improve, his ceiling only gets higher.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Joshua Skinner | G | Miramar | @JoshuaCSkinner</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Skinner has proven to be one of the more complete guards in the class. He shoots it well from deep, finishes with authority, and plays fearless defense. His ability to create shots and score in different ways makes him a tough matchup.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->