My Top 25: Missouri's Best in the 2026 Class - Part 1

Missouri's class of 2026 is stacked with talent — a deep group of prospects with clear next-level potential. From versatile playmakers to dominant interior forces, these athletes are set to leave their mark this winter. I break down the top 25 players in the class, highlighting what makes each one special and how they're expected to impact games in a big way this season. Note: This list does not include post-grad players.   25. [player_tooltip player_id='1872286' first='Chase' last='Rackers'] | 6'2" Guard | Southern Boone | COMO TNT   Chase is a rapidly emerging prospect who has drawn significant attention over the summer, collecting multiple offers. A quick and dynamic guard with solid size, Rackers possesses a versatile scoring arsenal. He excels at using change of pace and direction to create separation off the dribble, making him a tough cover in isolation. As a finisher, Rackers shows great body control -- capable of hanging in the air to absorb contact or using fades and creative angles to score around the rim. He's also a confident perimeter shooter, showing the ability to knock down shots both off the bounce and in catch-and-shoot situations. His quick release and sudden elevation make him a threat from deep at any moment. Heading into the upcoming season, Rackers will be the clear go-to option for Southern Boone. Expect him to take on a leadership role while continuing to expand his impact on both ends of the floor. With his combination of skill, feel, and athleticism, Rackers is poised for a breakout year.   24. [player_tooltip player_id='1850445' first='Adam' last='Tanner'] | 5'10" Guard | Oak Park | MOKAN   Tanner is a proven winner -- his greatest asset as a player is his ability to impact winning in every facet of the game. A battle-tested guard with years of experience, he played a pivotal role in Oak Park's state championship run last winter, showcasing his toughness, leadership, and winning mentality. Adam thrives on making the plays that don't always show up in the box score: applying relentless on-ball pressure, creating deflections and steals, securing 50/50 balls, and consistently making high-IQ decisions on both ends of the floor. His understanding of the game and commitment to doing the dirty work set him apart. This summer, he took noticeable strides in his offensive game -- particularly with an improved perimeter shot, which he now takes with increased confidence and volume. As a floor general, Tanner continues to excel: he's steady with the ball, attacks the basket with purpose, finishes creatively in traffic, and delivers timely, on-target passes to set up his teammates. Heading into this season, Tanner will be one of Oak Park's primary offensive initiators. As he looks to elevate his scoring output, his leadership and all-around play will be crucial for another deep postseason run.   23. [player_tooltip player_id='1790004' first='Jaylen' last='Edwards'] | 6'1" Guard | Cardinal Ritter | Gateway Knights   An extremely athletic and fluid guard, Jaylen plays with a rare blend of explosiveness and control. He consistently operates with poise, showing a mature feel for the game well beyond his years. In transition, he's a force -- pushing the pace and putting constant pressure on defenses. Whether it's finishing above the rim with highlight-reel dunks or using crafty, elusive finishes around defenders, Edwards is a dynamic threat in the open floor. He also brings versatility as a shot-maker. With a quick trigger and smooth release, Edwards can score off a variety of sets and actions -- whether spotting up or pulling up off the dribble. His perimeter shooting continues to evolve, making him a dangerous three-level scorer. As the leader of a talented Cardinal Ritter squad, Edwards will be counted on to shoulder a significant load this season. His ability to both score and facilitate will be key if his team hopes to take a major step forward and emerge as a true contender come spring.   22. [player_tooltip player_id='1790002' first='John' last='Fleeman'] | 6'11" Center | Kingsville | ETG Midwest   John is a true next-level big, recently committing to Chattanooga after attracting multiple offers this summer. His development over his high school career has been impressive -- particularly in his agility and lateral mobility, which have elevated his overall impact on both ends of the floor. With his rare combination of size, length, and improved footwork, Fleeman consistently alters plays and anchors the paint. Offensively, he's a powerful finisher around the basket, often throwing down two-handed dunks through contact. He's also comfortable with his back to the basket, showing impressive patience in the post -- utilizing shot fakes, pivots, and strong footwork to create high-percentage looks. On the glass, he's relentless on the offensive end, actively pursuing rebounds, keeping the ball high, and converting second-chance opportunities without hesitation. Fleeman was the centerpiece of a highly competitive Kingsville team last winter. For the program to take the next step and make a deep postseason run, he'll need to assert himself even more -- consistently dominating the paint and producing at a high level each night.   21. [player_tooltip player_id='1872264' first='Oliver' last='Puljic'] | 6'8" Forward | Rockwood Summit | [program_tooltip program_id='2075283' first='Arsenal' last='Hoops']   Oliver has been one of the breakout names of the summer, turning heads with his versatility and presence on both ends of the floor. The Rockwood Summit big man anchors play with a combination of size, strength, and evolving skill that makes him a true two-way impact player. Offensively, Puljic possesses a well-developed post game, showing comfort with his back to the basket and the ability to finish through contact with either hand. He's equally effective facing up -- attacking off the dribble and finishing with power at the rim. What sets him apart is his continued growth as a perimeter threat. He's shown improved shooting range, knocking down threes with confidence, and has demonstrated the ability to initiate offense and distribute effectively out of the high post or short roll. Last season, Puljic led Rockwood Summit while averaging a double-double, but the team had an up-and-down year. For them to take the next step and become true contenders, Puljic will need to elevate his game even further -- dominating consistently and asserting his presence on both ends of the floor.

Missouri's class of 2026 is stacked with talent — a deep group of prospects with clear next-level potential. From versatile playmakers to dominant interior forces, these athletes are set to leave their mark this winter. I break down the top 25 players in the class, highlighting what makes each one special and how they're expected to impact games in a big way this season. Note: This list does not include post-grad players.