My Top 25: Breaking Down the 2028 Class – Part 1

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The rising 2028 class in Kansas is set to take center stage this season, with several emerging names poised to make an impact -- some stepping into key roles, while others look to become primary options for their respective programs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>25. [player_tooltip player_id='2403733' first='Aaron' last='Hall'] | 6'0" Wing | Wichita Heights | Team One of Us</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Aaron is an aggressive, physical player who consistently plays bigger than his 6'0" frame. Defensively, he brings high energy and toughness -- capable of guarding multiple positions and disrupting offensive rhythm with his pressure and intensity. On the offensive end, Hall is equally dynamic. He attacks the basket fearlessly, embracing contact and finishing through it, while also knocking down perimeter shots with confidence. His two-way impact and physical approach make him a standout in the rising 2028 class.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>24. Jaylen Johnson | 6'4" Forward | Bishop Miege | VWBA Elite</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Jaylen is a rising under-the-radar prospect with his best basketball still ahead of him. An athletic forward with a high motor, Johnson consistently impacts the game with his energy and effort. Defensively, he's a difference-maker -- using his length and athleticism to guard all five positions and protect the rim at a high level. He's also a strong rebounder who can grab boards and immediately push the ball in transition, where he attacks the rim with power and a versatile finishing package. Johnson's blend of athleticism, defensive versatility, and upside makes him a name to watch closely in the coming years.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>23. Jayden Williams | 6'0" Guard | Lawrence Free State | VWBA Elite</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Williams is an athletic, quick two-way guard and a rising prospect to watch in the state. Offensively, he's a constant driving threat thanks to his explosive first step and ability to attack long closeouts. He finishes effectively around the rim, especially when getting to two feet—maintaining balance and absorbing contact with control. On the defensive end, Williams brings consistent pressure on the ball, disrupting ball handlers and generating turnovers with his active hands and quick feet. His speed, toughness, and ability to impact both ends make him a valuable asset with strong upside.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>22. [player_tooltip player_id='2820900' first='Vinny' last='Matteoni'] | 6'4" Forward | Blue Valley Northwest | PAC</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Matteoni is a long, athletic forward with his best basketball still ahead of him. He excels as a rim protector and competes well on the glass, holding his own against physical opponents and securing key rebounds. Offensively, he finishes efficiently around the rim and frequently plays above it, using his athleticism to his advantage. His skill set continues to evolve -- now showing flashes of perimeter ability, including the confidence to attack mismatches off the dribble. With continued development, Matteoni has the tools to become a versatile and impactful frontcourt presence.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>21. [player_tooltip player_id='2796552' first='Kolt' last='Becker'] | 6'5" Forward | Abilene | SSA Elite</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Becker is a big, strong forward who brings versatility to the floor with his ability to play both inside and out. He can stretch the defense with his shooting range, consistently knocking down open threes from the perimeter. In the paint, Becker makes a significant impact defensively -- using his strength to defend without fouling, blocking shots, and securing rebounds with two hands to finish possessions. Offensively, he's skilled around the rim, showing soft touch with both hands and the ability to maneuver through traffic to score. His physical presence and well-rounded game make him a valuable asset on both ends of the floor.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->