My Top 25: Breaking Down the 2026 Class

As the class of 2026 prepares for the upcoming high school season, a number of standout prospects are entering what could be the most pivotal stretch of their basketball careers so far. With recruitment heating up at every level, these players are aiming to raise their stock -- whether through breakout performances, stepping into leadership roles, or embracing expanded responsibilities on both ends of the floor.   This winter presents a key opportunity for athletes to display their growth, consistency, and long-term potential to coaches and scouts alike.   In this breakdown, I take a deep dive into my Top 25 players in the class of 2026 — highlighting what sets each of them apart and what to keep an eye on in the months ahead. Note: This list does not include post-grad players.   25. [player_tooltip player_id='2211342' first='Dawson' last='Ruder'] | 6'6" Forward | Hays   A throwback big with a modern touch, Dawson is a true back-to-the-basket player whose skill set sets him apart in today's game. He thrives in the post, showcasing excellent footwork, balance, and an advanced feel for scoring in tight spaces. Utilizing a variety of shot fakes, pivots, and counter moves, he consistently creates separation and finds ways to finish with touch using either hand. What makes Ruder especially unique is his ability to blend traditional post play with perimeter skill. He can confidently step out and knock down mid-range shots and perimeter jumpers, forcing defenders to respect him outside the paint and opening up space for others. Physically, he uses his strength and wide frame to carve out space inside, making him a highly effective rebounder — especially on the defensive end, where he routinely finishes possessions and clears the glass. With his blend of post skill, shooting touch, and physical presence, Ruder is a tough cover and a valuable asset in any system.   24. [player_tooltip player_id='2328078' first='Arley' last='Morrell'] | 6'6" Forward | Pratt | SSA Elite   Morrell is a high-impact, multi-sport athlete whose combination of size, strength, and athleticism makes him a difficult matchup on both ends of the floor. In the paint, he's a powerful presence — capable of finishing through contact, using his frame to seal defenders, and showing solid footwork to create easy scoring opportunities around the rim. Defensively, Morrell brings the same physicality and presence. He's an effective rim protector, regularly blocking or altering shots with his timing and length. Just as impactful on the glass, he consistently controls the boards, often dominating with his ability to rebound outside of his area and create second-chance opportunities or close out defensive possessions. As he continues to refine his overall skillset, Morrell's athletic tools and two-way impact give him a very high ceiling.   23. [player_tooltip player_id='2209782' first='Lovell' last='Autry'] | 5'10" Guard | Junction City | SSA Elite   Lovell is a strong, athletic guard who thrives with the ball in his hands. A true playmaker, he excels in the open floor — pushing the pace with confidence and consistently making the right reads in transition. His court vision stands out, as he regularly finds teammates in stride or threads passes through tight windows for easy buckets. In the half court, Autry's tight handle allows him to break down defenders off the dribble, creating driving lanes where he finishes with flair. He's a creative, acrobatic finisher around the rim — using his body control, touch, and athleticism to score through and around contact. One of the most notable areas of growth in his game is his perimeter shooting. Autry has shown steady improvement from beyond the arc, shooting with more confidence, volume, and efficiency. As he continues to develop as a three-level scorer, his ability to keep defenses honest will make him even more dangerous as a lead guard.   22. [player_tooltip player_id='2211348' first='Kelan' last='Gruver'] | 6'2" Guard | Bonner Springs | 816 Hoops   Gruver is a high-IQ, two-way player who consistently impacts winning with his smart and unselfish approach to the game. Defensively, he stands out with his awareness and anticipation — often stepping up to take charges, wall up in the paint, or make timely rotations that shift momentum. His discipline and positioning allow him to defend without fouling while still being disruptive. On the offensive end, Gruver plays with a pass-first mentality. He has a great feel for the game and excels at setting up teammates with crisp, on-time passes, particularly in the half-court. He's comfortable handling the ball in transition, using change of pace and direction to create separation and break pressure. A known perimeter threat, Gruver shoots the ball efficiently from beyond the arc. His shooting ability forces hard closeouts, which he routinely takes advantage of — attacking off the dribble and using his length and touch to finish through traffic at the rim. His balanced skill set, court vision, and understanding of the game make him one of the more complete and reliable guards in his class.   21. [player_tooltip player_id='2211347' first='Gavin' last='Popik'] | 6'0" Guard | Olathe Northwest | SSA Elite   Gavin has emerged as one of the hotter names on the recruiting trail this summer — and for good reason. A dynamic offensive weapon, Popik is at his best when attacking off the dribble, utilizing a quick and crafty first step to gain separation and get defenders on his hip. Once downhill, he excels at reading help defenders and finishing through or around contact, often using creative angles and body control to score over length. What's been most noticeable in his development is the improvement in his perimeter shooting. He now consistently knocks down open looks, especially in catch-and-shoot or drive-and-kick situations, adding a key layer of versatility to his offensive arsenal. With his continued growth as a shooter and ability to break down defenses off the bounce, Popik is positioning himself as one of the most well-rounded offensive guards in his class.

As the class of 2026 prepares for the upcoming high school season, a number of standout prospects are entering what could be the most pivotal stretch of their basketball careers so far. With recruitment heating up at every level, these players are aiming to raise their stock -- whether through breakout performances, stepping into leadership roles, or embracing expanded responsibilities on both ends of the floor.