Evaluator's Notebook: Who's Making Moves? - Part 2

We continue our look at several Missouri prospects who are poised to elevate their game and make a significant impact this coming season.    It's hard to imagine Boyd making a bigger impact than he did last winter, when he led his team across multiple statistical categories and delivered several standout scoring performances. But he managed to raise the bar even higher this summer, turning in one of the most impressive offseasons of any player in the region. Now committed to Northern Iowa, Boyd is poised for an elite senior campaign. A dynamic guard, Boyd is explosive off the dribble, especially when attacking the rim -- using a mix of spin moves and physicality to create separation. He's also highly efficient as a shooter, both from mid-range and beyond the arc. In transition, he thrives with a crafty handle and the athleticism to finish above the rim. Expectations are sky-high heading into the season, with Boyd projected to elevate his production even further in scoring, playmaking, and rebounding.     Tre is coming off a strong junior season at Lee's Summit North and an equally impressive summer that saw him earn offers from Rockhurst and Washburn. A versatile wing with great length and a solid frame, Paulding consistently created mismatches throughout the year. He's a skilled shot-creator off the bounce, using a crafty handle and knocking down perimeter shots with consistency -- whether off the catch or in dribble handoff actions. This summer, he showcased an aggressive mindset, attacking the rim in both transition and half-court sets. He excelled finishing above the rim, especially on lobs, and even flashed a developing back-to-the-basket game. For Lee's Summit North to make a serious run this winter, Paulding will need to lead the way -- elevating his scoring and asserting himself on both ends of the floor with his combination of size, skill, and athleticism     Stone put together a solid junior season as a key contributor for a Staley squad that remained competitive throughout the year, picking up several quality wins along the way. This summer, he took another step forward -- emerging as a strong two-way presence and showcasing noticeable development in his overall game. He plays with relentless energy, especially on the defensive end, where he consistently creates deflections, forces turnovers, and displays sharp instincts both on and off the ball. His athleticism and length make him especially dangerous in transition and when attacking closeouts from the wing, often leading to highlight-reel dunks and creative finishes around the rim. Heading into his senior season, Stone will be tasked with taking on a bigger offensive role -- creating more with the ball in his hands and becoming a consistent scoring threat, all while continuing to set the tone defensively with his trademark intensity.     Adam played a pivotal role in Oak Park's state championship run last season, doing whatever it took to help his team win -- whether it was defending, facilitating, scoring when needed, or making high-IQ plays in key moments. This summer, he elevated his game even further by adding new layers to his offensive arsenal. Tanner was highly effective in ball screen situations, showing the ability to navigate various defensive coverages while scoring efficiently and making smart reads as a distributor. He also showcased a more consistent perimeter jumper, featuring a smooth and efficient shooting motion that he hit at a high rate. For Oak Park to repeat as state champions this winter, Tanner will need to carry that improved offensive presence into the season while continuing to lead with his elite basketball IQ, defensive tenacity, and steady leadership -- traits that have defined his high school career.     Mav was the driving force behind Pembroke Hill's strong finish last season, leading the team as they hit their stride late and played their best basketball down the stretch. He filled the stat sheet across the board -- scoring, rebounding, and distributing -- while showcasing a complete, all-around game. Hawkins carried that momentum into the summer, where his athleticism truly stood out. He made an impact on both ends of the floor, with his quick change of direction, ability to play above the rim, and consistent defensive presence. Offensively, he proved to be a versatile scorer -- knocking down shots in a variety of situations and coverages, while also excelling in transition. His ability to push the ball coast to coast and make smart decisions -- whether finishing himself or finding teammates -- was a consistent highlight. With high expectations for Pembroke Hill this coming season, Hawkins will be the centerpiece. For the team to reach its full potential, he'll need to raise his production, embrace a leadership role, and continue to set the tone on both ends of the court.

We continue our look at several Missouri prospects who are poised to elevate their game and make a significant impact this coming season.

Jordan Boyd

MO #5

SF #1

HEIGHT 6'4"

POS SF

CLASS 2026

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Jordan Boyd

State: Missouri

School: De Smet Jesuit

Club: MidPro South

It's hard to imagine Boyd making a bigger impact than he did last winter, when he led his team across multiple statistical categories and delivered several standout scoring performances. But he managed to raise the bar even higher this summer, turning in one of the most impressive offseasons of any player in the region. Now committed to Northern Iowa, Boyd is poised for an elite senior campaign. A dynamic guard, Boyd is explosive off the dribble, especially when attacking the rim -- using a mix of spin moves and physicality to create separation. He's also highly efficient as a shooter, both from mid-range and beyond the arc. In transition, he thrives with a crafty handle and the athleticism to finish above the rim. Expectations are sky-high heading into the season, with Boyd projected to elevate his production even further in scoring, playmaking, and rebounding.

Highlights

Tre Paulding

MO #8

SG/SF #1

HEIGHT 6'5"

POS SG/SF

CLASS 2026

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Tre Paulding

State: Missouri

School: Lee's Summit North

Club: MPJ Elite

Tre is coming off a strong junior season at Lee's Summit North and an equally impressive summer that saw him earn offers from Rockhurst and Washburn. A versatile wing with great length and a solid frame, Paulding consistently created mismatches throughout the year. He's a skilled shot-creator off the bounce, using a crafty handle and knocking down perimeter shots with consistency -- whether off the catch or in dribble handoff actions. This summer, he showcased an aggressive mindset, attacking the rim in both transition and half-court sets. He excelled finishing above the rim, especially on lobs, and even flashed a developing back-to-the-basket game. For Lee's Summit North to make a serious run this winter, Paulding will need to lead the way -- elevating his scoring and asserting himself on both ends of the floor with his combination of size, skill, and athleticism

Highlights

Kenison Stone

MO #33

SG #7

HEIGHT 6'4"

POS SG

CLASS 2026

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Kenison Stone

State: Missouri

School: Staley

Stone put together a solid junior season as a key contributor for a Staley squad that remained competitive throughout the year, picking up several quality wins along the way. This summer, he took another step forward -- emerging as a strong two-way presence and showcasing noticeable development in his overall game. He plays with relentless energy, especially on the defensive end, where he consistently creates deflections, forces turnovers, and displays sharp instincts both on and off the ball. His athleticism and length make him especially dangerous in transition and when attacking closeouts from the wing, often leading to highlight-reel dunks and creative finishes around the rim. Heading into his senior season, Stone will be tasked with taking on a bigger offensive role -- creating more with the ball in his hands and becoming a consistent scoring threat, all while continuing to set the tone defensively with his trademark intensity.