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<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>
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<p><strong><em>15. (tie) Nash Ferguson | 6'7" Wing | Blue Valley Southwest | PAC</em></strong></p>
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<p>Ferguson continues to make noise as a unique and rapidly developing prospect. With impressive length and a versatile skill set, he's able to operate effectively on the wing or take advantage of mismatches with his back to the basket. Defensively, Ferguson is a major asset -- consistently protecting the rim and blocking shots with timing and reach. He also rebounds well, using his length to secure boards and either push the break himself or sprint the floor in transition. His blend of size, skill, and two-way versatility makes him one of the more intriguing prospects in his class.</p>
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<p><strong><em>15. (tie) [player_tooltip player_id='2820786' first='Grant' last='Nehls'] | 6'4" Wing | Thomas More Prep-Marian</em></strong></p>
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<p>Nehls is a multi-sport athlete who continues to turn heads -- especially on the basketball court -- following a standout freshman season. He consistently impacted games in a variety of ways, showing the ability to score, defend, rebound, and facilitate at a high level. His combination of size, strength, and athleticism makes him a tough matchup for opponents. Grant controls the game around the rim, but also runs the floor exceptionally well, using his motor and versatility to leave his mark on both ends. As he continues to develop, his all-around game makes him one of the more intriguing young talents to watch.</p>
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<p><strong><em>14. [player_tooltip player_id='2821566' first='Zach' last='Dashiell'] | 6'5" Wing | Sunrise Christian | SBA</em></strong></p>
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<p>Now at Sunrise Christian, Zach looks poised for a breakout season. While he's highly effective with the ball in his hands, it's his off-ball IQ that truly sets him apart -- consistently creating opportunities through smart cuts, timely movement, and strong reads. Dashiell pairs that feel for the game with the ability to score from all three levels, making him a versatile offensive threat. His size also allows him to contribute on the glass, rebounding well on both ends of the floor. With his combination of skill, intelligence, and toughness, Dashiell is a name to watch closely this season.</p>
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<p><strong><em>13. [player_tooltip player_id='2815780' first='Kaden' last='Williams'] | 5'11" Guard | Campus | Team One of Us</em></strong></p>
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<p>Williams is a guard known for his tenacious defensive approach, showing a strong ability to disrupt offensive flow and consistently pressure ball handlers. His defensive instincts allow him to anticipate plays, contest passing lanes, and force turnovers, making him a valuable asset on that end of the floor. Offensively, Kaden is a skilled ball-handler who excels at breaking down defenses with a quick first step and sharp change of direction. He's effective attacking closeouts and can navigate traffic to create scoring opportunities for himself and others. In addition to his driving ability, Williams is a reliable perimeter shooter, consistently knocking down shots from beyond the arc and keeping defenses honest.</p>
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<p><strong><em>12. [player_tooltip player_id='2948828' first='Gaige' last='Navarro'] | 6'5" Forward | Burlington | SSA Elite</em></strong></p>
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<p>Navarro is a rising name who made a strong impression this summer. A tall, long forward with plenty of upside, Gaige is still developing physically -- but his skill set and motor already make him a standout. As he continues to fill out his frame, his long-term potential points toward him becoming one of the top prospects in his class. He's a high-level rebounder who consistently tracks down boards outside of his area on both ends of the floor. Offensively, Navarro excels at attacking the basket—finishing above or around defenders—and has also shown the ability to stretch the floor with a reliable perimeter shot. With his length, athleticism, and evolving skill, Navarro is definitely a player to keep close tabs on in the years ahead.</p>
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<p><strong><em>11. [player_tooltip player_id='2829765' first='Ja'Myias' last='Caldwell'] | 5'10" Guard | Campus | Team One of Us</em></strong></p>
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<p>Arguably the best on-ball defender in the state, Caldwell brings relentless intensity and energy every time he steps on the floor. He consistently disrupts opposing ball handlers by picking up full court and applying pressure, turning defense into instant offense. What makes Ja'Myias even more impactful is his continued growth on the offensive end. He's shown an improved perimeter jumper and the ability to handle the ball with confidence, initiating offense and creating for others. With his elite defensive presence and evolving offensive skill set, Caldwell is one of the most impactful two-way players to watch this season. </p>
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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.
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