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.   5. [player_tooltip player_id='1850526' first='Tristan' last='Reed'] | 6'9" Center | Link Academy | MOKAN   Reed is yet another highly touted prospect at Link Academy who will have his pick of top college programs. A physically dominant interior presence, he thrives in the paint -- carving out space, establishing deep position, and operating efficiently with either hand around the rim. When given the chance, he finishes with authority, always looking to deliver powerful dunks that set the tone. Tristan runs the floor hard in transition, creating early post-up opportunities and quick one-on-one chances that lead to easy buckets. He also has a strong grasp of the pick-and-roll game -- setting solid screens and rolling with purpose, often sealing defenders and finding soft spots in the defense. What truly sets Tristan apart is his defensive impact. With pro-level length and strong instincts, he alters shots at a high rate and racks up blocks without sacrificing positioning. His ability to anchor the paint on both ends makes him one of the most intriguing bigs in the state. All eyes will be on Reed this winter as he continues to elevate his game and prepares to make a decision on where he'll take his talents at the next level.   4. [player_tooltip player_id='2352805' first='Quentin' last='Coleman'] | 6'3" Guard | Principia | [program_tooltip program_id='2075324' first='Brad' last='Beal Elite']   Quentin is a rapidly rising prospect whose game has taken a major leap in recent months. His stock continues to climb, thanks in part to the noticeable strength he's added to his frame -- allowing him to play through contact and control the pace of games with greater confidence. A dynamic ball handler, Quentin has a natural ability to keep defenders off balance. He uses quick changes of direction and pace to create space, then takes full advantage with a smooth and efficient scoring touch. He's deadly from both the mid-range and perimeter, rarely needing much room to get his shot off. His high shooting efficiency, paired with soft touch and agility around the rim, makes him a constant scoring threat -- able to convert even the toughest finishes in traffic. As the leader and floor general for a Principia team looking to defend its state title, Quentin will be the catalyst behind another championship push. With his growth and production trending upward, he's a name to watch closely throughout the season.   3. [player_tooltip player_id='1793650' first='Carlos' last='Medlock Jr']. | 6'0" Guard | Link Academy | Phenom United   Carlos will take the reins as Link Academy's lead guard this winter, carrying momentum from a standout summer into what's expected to be a big senior season. An elite ball handler, Medlock plays with exceptional control -- smooth and composed, even at top speed. He's constantly in attack mode, using quick changes of direction and pace to keep defenders off balance. Around the rim, Carlos is crafty and fearless. He finishes a variety of tough layups and floaters in traffic, and despite his size, he shows surprising explosiveness -- rising above the rim when the opportunity presents itself. While he excels shooting off the dribble, he's also reliable in catch-and-shoot situations and won't hesitate when given space. Defensively, Medlock brings an aggressive, disruptive presence -- consistently pressuring ball handlers and forcing mistakes. His combination of offensive creativity and defensive tenacity makes him one of the most complete guards in the country. With a commitment to Michigan State already in place, all eyes will be on Medlock this season as he looks to lead Link and continue proving why he's one of the top lead guards in his class.   2. Luca Foster | 6'5" Wing | Link Academy | Team Final   Luca is a dynamic asset to any roster, bringing an impressive blend of size, length, and athleticism. Known for his toughness, he competes relentlessly on the glass and consistently battles for second-chance opportunities -- two traits that immediately stand out and elevate his overall impact on the game. Offensively, Foster is a versatile threat. He's a smooth and reliable shooter, especially effective coming off screens, and also serves as a consistent lob target and finisher around the rim. He thrives in an up-tempo system, regularly showcasing his ability to run the floor, play above the rim, and finish in transition. On the defensive end, his athleticism translates just as well -- he's a capable rim protector who alters and denies shots at a high level, anchoring the paint with intensity and timing. Firmly established as a top-40 player nationally, Foster enters his senior season at Link Academy with major momentum and the freedom to choose from elite programs at the next level.   1. Ethan Taylor | 7'0" Center | Link Academy | MOKAN   My number 1 player in Missouri is Ethan Taylor -- a title that doesn't come lightly in a state full of elite talent. His recent rise, combined with his long-term projection, makes him the top prospect heading into this season. Taylor's size is his most immediately noticeable asset. He boasts a massive frame and a plus wingspan that naturally takes up space on both ends of the floor. As he continues to develop physically, it's clear we haven't seen anywhere near his full potential. His upside is enormous. Offensively, he's comfortable operating with his back to the basket, showing patience, poise, and advanced footwork. What separates him, though, is his vision -- he reads the floor extremely well and consistently finds cutters and open shooters, making him a true offensive hub. As a scorer, he finishes through contact with power, plays over both shoulders, and rises to dunk whenever possible. Defensively, Taylor is a force. He dominates the glass, clears space with physicality, and erases shots at the rim with timing and strength. His presence alone alters opponents' game plans. Ethan will be the centerpiece of a loaded Link Academy roster this winter -- and as he continues to develop, he's on track to become one of the most dominant frontcourt prospects in the country.

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.