Difference Makers: SD Sophomore Ballers

The South Dakota 2028 Prospect Rankings were updated on Friday, but in this article, we are talking about difference-makers. This piece does not reflect on rankings or college potential. Instead, we're highlighting players who excel at the little things, make winning plays, knock down shots, set up teammates, showcase impressive athleticism, or simply have a style of play that stands out.   See below for player comments…   Difference Makers    Aderhold is an athletic and explosive difference-maker who looks primed to be a stud this winter. He's an impressive finisher at the rim and more than capable of putting opponents on a poster with his high-flying scores. On the glass, he's a strong and productive rebounder, and defensively, he oozes upside as a lockdown defender. Aderhold protects the paint, plays with relentless energy, and consistently impacts winning. With his combination of size, athleticism, and motor, it's no surprise he's already drawing interest from Division II programs—and his stock only looks to be on the rise.     PHD admires the way Strande plays the game. He passes the “eye test” with his length, poise, and skill, showcasing a mature game well beyond his years and that undeniable “it factor.” Strande is the kind of player who can create offense, facilitate, and manage the game, yet when needed, he can also score from all three levels—and make it look smooth doing so. Add in his toughness on the defensive end, and it's clear Strande is a real-deal ball player with the complete package.     Ellwein is a true difference-maker because of his shooting, already establishing himself as one of the premier marksmen in the Class of 2028. While his perimeter game is his calling card, he also shows the ability to share the ball and create scoring opportunities for his teammates. The young guard has the potential to earn a starting role this winter and contribute as a double-digit scorer. With his skill set and confidence, it will be exciting to watch Myles and his big brother Blake, on the floor together, forming a dangerous duo.     Veenhof is a big, strong, and athletic guard who brings a physical presence to the backcourt. He executes well, attacks the rim with confidence, and can finish with either hand, making him a productive slasher and scorer. Offensively, he shows versatility—knocking down the pull-up jumper and proving he's capable from three when defenders sag off. With his size, strength, and skill set, the sophomore looks primed for a breakout season with the Bulldogs.     Kudera turned heads at the Prep Hoops Soph ID Camp, showcasing a well-rounded and polished game. He moves with purpose, makes sharp cuts, and knows how to finish strong at the rim while also knocking down triples with confidence. He's a good passer who keeps teammates involved, and in transition, he plays smoothly and efficiently. On defense, Jackson forces turnovers with his activity and awareness. Add in his quality ball skills and a jump shot that's both accurate and reliable, and it's clear Kudera is a Yankton baller to keep close tabs on.     Physically, Jones stands out as a man amongst boys, using his size, strength, and athleticism to control the paint. Payton makes a big impact as a rim protector and shot-blocker. With his impressive length, mobility, and relentless pursuit of rebounds, he consistently changes the flow of a game. Most of his scoring currently comes around the basket; Jones is a force inside. This winter could be the season he puts it all together and solidifies himself as a difference-maker for the Spartans.     Brewer stands out as a difference-maker with his scoring and offensive skill set. A good-sized guard in the Class of 2028, he brings a complete package to the floor—all the moves, natural feel, quick trigger, and unwavering confidence. He plays with a true scorer's mentality, showing deep shooting range and the short memory all great shot-makers need. With his ability to fill it up from anywhere on the court, Memphis looks ready for a dynamite season with the Crusaders.     Holscher is set to be a major difference-maker for the Bulldogs this winter. Already an experienced varsity player, he's expected to stuff the stat sheet throughout the 2025–26 season. PHD is intrigued by his length and versatility, which allow him to impact the game in a variety of ways. Offensively, he's a smooth jump shooter, finishes well at the rim, and runs the floor with purpose. On defense, his size and activity cause problems for opponents. With the ability to do a little bit of everything, Holscher is poised for a breakout soph campaign.     Prep Hoops Dakotas is intrigued by Vietor's length and height, and after a strong offseason of hard work, there's plenty of excitement about what he can bring to the floor. With his size, Vietor is a true difference-maker, impacting the game on both ends. Offensively, he's capable of scoring inside and stepping out to hit shots, giving him versatility as a scorer. Defensively, he uses his frame to clog the paint and anchor the Brave defense, making life difficult for opponents around the rim. Vietor's growth and development will be key to his team's success this season.     Rasmussen has the tools and upside to be a difference-maker. PHD came away impressed with his showing at the Prep Hoops Frosh Expo, where he stood out as an excellent passer with vision as sharp as a Tiger on the prowl. He thrives as a playmaker in pick-and-roll situations, consistently making the right reads and creating opportunities for his teammates. Rasmussen plays with great pace—hard, fast, and under control—while flashing a quality skill set that should only continue to develop. He's a young talent to keep a close eye on moving forward.     Kieffer is a difference-maker because he brings high-level athleticism to the floor and thrives as a true hustle player. His energy and effort translate most on the glass and the defensive end, where rebounding and stopping opponents are currently his biggest strengths. This winter, he'll step into the role as the Raiders' primary post presence, anchoring the paint on both ends. With Kieffer's motor and physical tools, Lyman looks poised to be one of the stronger squads in Class B.     Martin comes from a basketball family, and it shows in the way he approaches the game. As a freshman last season, he earned a starting role and held his own, proving he belonged on the floor. He's a high-IQ player who puts in the work, with a productive offseason that has only elevated his skill set. Martin combines solid defensive instincts with a well-rounded skill level, giving the Broncs a young playmaker ready to take another leap. Expect him to emerge as a difference-maker this season as he continues to grow and refine his game.

The South Dakota 2028 Prospect Rankings were updated on Friday, but in this article, we are talking about difference-makers. This piece does not reflect on rankings or college potential. Instead, we're highlighting players who excel at the little things, make winning plays, knock down shots, set up teammates, showcase impressive athleticism, or simply have a style of play that stands out.