5th Region's Small School Standouts

While some of these programs have seen top-tier talent transfer to schools outside the Bluegrass or elsewhere in the Fifth Region, this group still features as much talent as any small-school list in the state. Several key players have also transferred in, adding to the depth. Caverna looks loaded, Green County returns multiple big-name contributors, and there are plenty of others on this list worth keeping an eye on.    [player_tooltip player_id='1902675' first='Jaylin' last='Craine'] is one of Kentucky's top point guards, holding offers from EKU, Jacksonville State, Georgetown, and Campbellsville. With elite speed and a quick first step, he consistently gets into the paint to finish with either hand, draw contact, or kick out to shooters. He scores at all three levels with a smooth pull-up jumper and reliable spot-up three, while also creating for teammates as a playmaker. On the defensive end, Craine's toughness and motor stand out as he guards 94 feet and takes pride in locking down the opponent's best guard.     [player_tooltip player_id='1406953' first='Eric' last='James Jr.'] is one of the most explosive athletes in Kentucky, a physical guard who excels at playing downhill and finishing through contact. A violent leaper and highlight dunker, he constantly pressures defenses by attacking the paint, drawing fouls, and creating opportunities for his team. After shooting 32% from three as a junior, he clearly worked to expand his perimeter game, making him a more complete scorer and tougher cover for defenders. With his size, strength, and athleticism, James brings impact on both ends of the floor and projects as a strong two-way guard at the next level.     [player_tooltip player_id='2528380' first='Jaciyon' last='Graves'] is a skilled forward with size, length, and versatility that make him a tough matchup on both ends of the floor. At Danville last season, he averaged 9.3 points and 9.1 rebounds in 16 games, narrowly missing a double-double. Graves can step out and knock down threes at a 36% clip, use his length to finish in traffic, and impact the game above the rim as both a scorer and rebounder. His ability to stretch the floor while also providing a strong presence inside gives him true dual-threat potential. Defensively, he alters shots with his length and brings consistent energy on the glass. With his athleticism, perimeter touch, and developing all-around game, Graves is a high-ceiling prospect still tapping into his best basketball.     [player_tooltip player_id='2628796' first='Modi' last='Kouyate'], a Division I prospect, is a versatile and skilled big man who continues to improve with each outing. Last season, he averaged seven points and led his team with 7.6 rebounds per game. An explosive athlete, Kouyate rises high and can finish over defenders with authority, while also getting his shot off quickly in traffic. A capable shot-blocker with the agility to defend multiple positions, he combines size, athleticism, and versatility, making him a highly coveted player at the next level.     Tyson Martin, a standout football player, brings athleticism, strength, and versatility to the basketball court. Last season, he averaged 12.4 points per game on 62% shooting while leading his team with 8.5 rebounds. Martin is a physical presence who can score, rebound, pass, and defend effectively, using his agility and quick hands to impact both ends of the floor. He can also rise above the rim and throw it down with ease, adding an explosive element to his game.     [player_tooltip player_id='2125710' first='Jack' last='Bradley'] has the tools to be among the top players in the 5th Region. A dynamic scorer, he can attack the rim, stretch the defense with deep-range shooting, and score efficiently from all three levels. Following Nicholas Osborne's graduation, Bradley will be the lead returning scorer with 11.7 points per game on 51% shooting and also paced the squad with 7.5 rebounds last season. Beyond basketball, he showcases his athleticism and leadership as the team's quarterback in football.     Evan McIlvoy is a strong, well-built forward with good size and a smooth touch around the basket. He excels at finishing in traffic, using spins and post moves to create scoring opportunities, and consistently follows misses. Last season, McIlvoy led Washington County with 16.7 points per game on 55% shooting while also grabbing a team-high 11.7 rebounds, showcasing his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor.    More standouts:   Keaton Hord, Campbellsville   Jalen Gribbens, Campbellsville   Gavin Lightning, Caverna   Kenyon Martin, Caverna   Lance Coulter, Washington County

While some of these programs have seen top-tier talent transfer to schools outside the Bluegrass or elsewhere in the Fifth Region, this group still features as much talent as any small-school list in the state. Several key players have also transferred in, adding to the depth. Caverna looks loaded, Green County returns multiple big-name contributors, and there are plenty of others on this list worth keeping an eye on.