2026 Forwards/Centers Standing Out During Preseason

As the preseason ramps up, several forwards and centers are starting to peak at just the right time, showing polish, poise, and confidence that signal big things ahead. From rim protectors anchoring defenses to versatile forwards stretching the floor and finishing through contact, this group has used the fall to elevate their production and presence.    The 6'7” forward embodies toughness and defensive intensity. He brings a high motor and fearless mindset, willing to challenge anyone at the rim or on the boards. Burri defends with physicality and purpose, whether switching onto guards, walling up inside, or fighting through contact for rebounds. His combination of effort, energy, and versatility allows him to make a tangible impact in every defensive possession while setting the tone for his team with pure competitiveness.     [player_tooltip player_id='2445866' first='Mateo' last='Rico'] possesses the kind of length and reach that automatically gives him an edge on the offensive glass. He consistently cleans up missed shots, generating second and even third-chance opportunities through relentless pursuit and positioning. His instincts for tracking the ball's trajectory allow him to time his jumps perfectly, and his motor ensures that no rebound in his area goes uncontested. Rico's activity level and timing make him a constant presence around the basket who wears opponents down with effort plays.     At 7 feet tall, Baye is an elite interior force whose sheer length and physical presence instantly command attention. He dunks with ease in traffic, often finishing from a standstill by simply extending upward, and punishes defenders with powerful drop-step flushes. His combination of size, coordination, and soft touch around the rim make him a dominant paint finisher. Despite his towering frame, he moves fluidly end to end, running the floor with impressive mobility and playing well above the rim on both ends. His rim protection, rebounding range, and vertical gravity make him a true two-way anchor with rare athletic tools.     At 6-foot-11, Atem is a stand-alone rim protector with exceptional timing and discipline. He goes up vertically with both arms extended, swatting away shots cleanly without fouling. His ability to read the offensive player's gather and meet them at the rim separates him as an elite interior defender. Atem's long frame and anticipation allow him to alter nearly every shot in his vicinity, anchoring the paint and deterring drives before they even happen.     Mikus plays with downhill force and physicality, keeping his off-hand up to seal or absorb contact on drives. He thrives on initiating and finishing through contact, using his body control to stay balanced while powering to the rim. An explosive leaper, Mikus consistently elevates above the crowd in rebounding battles, snatching boards at their apex. His blend of strength, athleticism, and aggressiveness makes him a problem in transition, attacking the glass, or finishing plays through defenders.     A lethal three-point marksman with a quick, compact release and deep range. He's equally dangerous spotting up off the catch or pulling up in transition, forcing defenses to extend beyond their comfort zone. Once he sees one go down, he becomes virtually unstoppable, knocking down shots in rapid succession. Bennett's shooting gravity opens driving lanes for teammates and adds a high-level scoring punch that stretches the floor and keeps defenders guessing at all times.

As the preseason ramps up, several forwards and centers are starting to peak at just the right time, showing polish, poise, and confidence that signal big things ahead. From rim protectors anchoring defenses to versatile forwards stretching the floor and finishing through contact, this group has used the fall to elevate their production and presence.