My Top 25: Missouri’s Best in the 2026 Class

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.   10. [player_tooltip player_id='1775703' first='Eli' last='Herbert'] | 6'4" Guard | Grain Valley | KC Run GMC   Herbert is widely regarded as the best pure shooter in the state. With limitless range and a smooth, effortless stroke, Eli can pull up from virtually anywhere on the floor. As with any elite shooter, he thrives in catch-and-shoot situations -- but what sets him apart is his ability to create shots off the dribble. He utilizes a wide variety of step-backs, fades, and subtle bump moves to generate space and get clean looks from all areas of the court. His basketball IQ is high-level, especially when it comes to reading defenses and navigating off-ball actions. He consistently uses screens and movement to free himself, making him extremely tough to guard. Over the past year, Herbert has also expanded his game as a slasher -- finishing stronger at the rim and using extended finishes to score through size and contact. As he continues to fill out his long frame, his ceiling only rises. Committed to Liberty, Herbert is focused on closing out his high school career on a high note, aiming to lead Grain Valley on a deep postseason run.   9. [player_tooltip player_id='2111114' first='Tre' last='Paulding'] | 6'5" Wing | Lee's Summit North | [program_tooltip program_id='2075378' first='MPJ' last='Elite']   With elite size and athleticism, Tre is a rising wing who's beginning to draw serious attention as he enters his senior year at Lee's Summit North. He brings intensity on both ends of the floor -- defending with purpose and finishing plays at the rim with authority. Paulding excels at attacking the basket, especially in transition, where he lowers his shoulders and powers through contact. He's a high flyer who looks to finish above the rim every chance he gets, often electrifying crowds with highlight dunks. Offensively, he's more than just a slasher -- he's capable of initiating offense from the perimeter, showing solid ball-handling and advanced vision that allows him to make next-level passes and read the floor as a playmaker. He competes on the glass as well, boxing out and pursuing rebounds on both ends, adding another valuable layer to his all-around game. As he steps into a primary role this winter, Paulding will look to lead Lee's Summit North to a breakout season -- one where his increased production and leadership could turn the program into a legitimate contender.   8. [player_tooltip player_id='2241508' first='Keonte' last='Greybear'] | 6'3" Guard | Link Academy | MOKAN   Keonte is another elite prospect playing for powerhouse Link Academy, coming off a season where he carved out a key role as an energy guy -- consistently making momentum-shifting plays to ignite his team. A gifted athlete, he's known for his explosive finishes above the rim, often delivering highlight-worthy dunks with flair and creativity. While his ability to attack the basket in the half court stands out, Greybear also brings value as a floor spacer. He's a highly efficient perimeter shooter who understands spacing at a high level, particularly in transition where he sprints the wings and consistently finds catch-and-shoot opportunities. His shooting touch, combined with his athleticism, makes him a versatile threat offensively. Heading into this season, Greybear is set to take on a larger role for Link, and he's more than ready for the spotlight. With numerous Power 5 offers already in hand, he'll be looking to make a major statement this winter as he continues preparing for the next level.   7. [player_tooltip player_id='1790000' first='Ethan' last='Brown'] | 6'4" Guard | Rolla | Gateway Knights   The only shooter in Missouri who may rival [player_tooltip player_id='1775703' first='Eli' last='Herbert'] from Grain Valley is [player_tooltip player_id='1790000' first='Ethan' last='Brown'] -- a long, athletic guard with deep, consistent range and the confidence to let it fly from anywhere on the floor. Whether spotting up or pulling up off the dribble, Brown is comfortable shooting under pressure and has the ability to heat up quickly. While his shooting draws attention, Brown is far from one-dimensional. He's a high-IQ, pass-first player who keeps his head up and consistently creates for others. He excels in transition, scanning the floor and probing defenses to find the right play. His length gives him an advantage around the basket, where he uses floaters, crafty finishes, and body control to score over defenders in the paint. After a tough end to last season for Rolla, Brown is locked in on making a statement this winter. With his scoring ability and playmaking instincts, he'll be the engine behind a team looking to make a serious push toward Columbia and a shot at postseason redemption.   6. [player_tooltip player_id='1560903' first='Trent' last='Perry'] | 6'4" Wing | Link Academy | MOKAN   Perry is a player who could easily rank higher on this list -- and for good reason. Coming off a strong summer and holding multiple Power 5 offers, he's a prospect with elite athleticism, sharp instincts, and a nonstop motor that impacts every part of the game. Defensively, Trent is a nightmare for opposing guards. He defends the ball with discipline, rarely fouling, and constantly turning ball handlers to disrupt rhythm. His long arms and anticipation allow him to jump passing lanes and generate turnovers, turning defense into immediate offense. In transition, Perry is electric -- attacking the rim with power and intensity that not only finishes plays but injects energy into his team. In the half court, he keeps defenders off balance with a controlled shot fake and a strong first step, allowing him to consistently get downhill. He's also shown steady growth as a passer, often threading creative assists through tight windows with advanced vision and feel. With another season at Link Academy ahead, all eyes will be on Perry as he continues to rise -- and it will be exciting to see where he lands next at the collegiate level.

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.