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<p>The Class of 2027 is loaded with talent across all classifications and schools. In this five-part series, I take an in-depth look at my top 25 players -- regardless of position -- breaking down what makes each prospect stand out.</p>
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<p><strong><em>10. Teke Deng | 6'11" Forward | Olathe North | VWBA Elite</em></strong></p>
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<p>Teke is a rising prospect in the 2027 class, boasting pro-level length and defensive instincts that immediately stand out. He consistently impacts games around the rim, using his timing and reach to block and alter shots with ease. His versatility on the defensive end also allows him to guard the perimeter effectively, using his length to disrupt passing lanes and challenge shots. Offensively, Teke is a strong finisher around the basket, playing with power and purpose. He shows a solid understanding of ball screen actions, excelling as a roll threat with good timing and awareness. With his defensive presence and developing offensive game, Teke is quickly becoming one of the more intriguing long-term prospects in his class.</p>
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<p><strong><em>9. Blaise Dalian | 6'5" Wing | Kapaun Mt. Carmel | PAC</em></strong></p>
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<p>Blaise is an under-the-radar prospect who brings consistency, intelligence, and versatility to the floor. A hybrid forward, Blaise can stretch the defense with his perimeter shooting -- featuring a smooth, repeatable shooting motion that allows him to get shots off quickly in a variety of situations. He also plays with strength and balance on the interior, often getting to two feet to finish through contact or make smart drive-and-kick decisions. Blaise's feel for the game extends to his passing, where he regularly makes the right read and knows how to exploit defensive rotations. With his combination of shooting, strength, and basketball IQ, Blaise is a valuable two-way contributor with strong upside.</p>
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<p><strong><em>8. [player_tooltip player_id='2205706' first='Avant' last='Riley'] | 5'10" Guard | Derby | Team One of Us</em></strong></p>
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<p>Avant is a highly skilled offensive talent with the ability to break down a variety of defensive looks. He's an elite shooter with deep range, capable of getting his shot off against aggressive, tight coverage thanks to his quick release and confident stroke. Avant has also made noticeable strides as a ball handler, showing poise under pressure and the ability to initiate offense as a lead guard. He's especially effective in ball screen situations -- recognizing advantages, making sharp reads, and delivering high-level passes. With his shooting ability and evolving playmaking skills, Avant is a dynamic offensive weapon with a high ceiling.</p>
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<p><strong><em>7. Ben Dzabatou | 6'8" Forward | Sunrise Christian | Oakland Soldiers</em></strong></p>
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<p>Another name to know this winter is Ben Dzabatou, who will suit up for a highly competitive Sunrise Christian squad. Dzabatou is a long, athletic forward with a strong frame that makes him a force on the defensive end. He's a natural disruptor -- blocking shots, contesting at the rim, and using his length to wall up and alter opponents' looks in the paint. Offensively, Ben's game continues to evolve. He finishes with power around the rim and plays well within the flow of the offense, excelling as a screener and in dribble hand-off actions that allow guards to attack. With his blend of athleticism, physical tools, and growing offensive impact, Dzabatou is a prospect to keep close tabs on this season.</p>
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<p><strong><em>6. [player_tooltip player_id='2866725' first='Brendan' last='Walsh'] | 6'2" Guard | Blue Valley | [program_tooltip program_id='2078454' first='KC' last='Run GMC']</em></strong></p>
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<p>Walsh has emerged as one of the top players in the state, showcasing a high-level understanding of the game and the ability to dictate pace with poise. As a true point guard, he does a little bit of everything -- running offense, analyzing defenses, and consistently making the right basketball play. An unselfish and flashy passer, Walsh excels at getting teammates involved and creating easy opportunities. He's also a strong perimeter shooter with deep range and a quick release, making him a threat off the catch or dribble. When attacking the basket, he plays off two feet, using a variety of pivots, fakes, and footwork to create space and finish. His blend of IQ, skill, and leadership makes him a premier floor general and one of the most impactful players in the state.</p>
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The Class of 2027 is loaded with talent across all classifications and schools. In this five-part series, I take an in-depth look at my top 25 players -- regardless of position -- breaking down what makes each prospect stand out.
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