9 Breakout Ballers: AA/A

With basketball season fast approaching and practices set to begin in November, it's time to take a closer look at this year's Breakout Ballers — players primed to take significant steps forward. Some are preparing for expanded varsity roles, others are shifting into new positions, some are at new schools, and many are simply ready to showcase the growth they've put in during the offseason.   From AA to A — this group stands out for its talent, skill, athleticism, improvement, and upside. Each player brings a distinct combination of skill, mobility, size, and competitive edge that coaches value. As the 2025–26 season nears, anticipation is high to see which of these rising standouts will seize the spotlight.   <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/10/image_2f1917.png"><img src="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/10/image_2f1917.png" alt="" class="wp-image-3027847" style="width:276px;height:auto" /></a></figure>   <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/10/image_cc6a01.png"><img src="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/10/image_cc6a01.png" alt="" class="wp-image-3027848" style="width:276px;height:auto" /></a></figure>    Athletic guard [player_tooltip player_id='2475686' first='Ben' last='Berg'] is poised to be a breakout baller for the Bulldogs this season. Following a strong growth spurt, Ben's quickness, first step, and strength make him one of the best rebounding guards on the team and a key asset off the bench. Ben can knock down open threes, run the floor in transition, and has already shown he can handle big moments, stepping into a starting role last season with poise. With another year of development, his athleticism, scoring ability, and versatility will be vital to the Bulldogs' success in 2025–26.     [player_tooltip player_id='2250315' first='Collin' last='Weier'] made a strong impression this summer with his hard work and consistent effort, and PHD expects him to be a breakout contributor for the Kernels this season. Long, athletic, and now stronger after adding muscle in the off-season, Collin is a versatile presence on both ends of the floor. Defensively, he's exceptional — locking down opponents and controlling the boards. Offensively, he can score inside and step out when needed, providing flexibility for his team. A true role player and glue guy, Collin does the little things that help teams win: moving without the ball, setting solid screens, and making smart plays. His combination of effort, toughness, and basketball IQ makes him a player to watch this season.     After a strong season with Lincoln, [player_tooltip player_id='2137320' first='Deondre' last='Painter'] makes the move to Roosevelt, where he's expected to be a major factor for the Rough Riders this year. Painter brings a relentless motor and an attacking mindset that immediately elevates the team's energy and tempo. He's dangerous off the bounce, constantly pressuring defenses and creating scoring chances for both himself and his teammates. Add in his smooth midrange game and consistent three-point shot, and he becomes a tough matchup for any defender. Painter recently showcased his scoring ability at The Expo in Sioux Falls, proving once again that he's ready to be one of the Riders' breakout ballers and a key piece in their push for success this season.     Junior guard [player_tooltip player_id='2747532' first='Joseph' last='Nibbe'] made a big impact last season as ELB's sixth man, averaging 10.5 points and 3.6 rebounds per game — an impressive stat line for a sophomore coming off the bench. He finished as the Elks' second-leading scorer and proved he can heat up in a hurry, with several games topping the 20-point mark. As he steps into a larger role this season, Nibbe is poised to build on that momentum and take his game to another level. His scoring instincts, confidence, and ability to produce in bunches make him a key player to watch for the Elks in 2025–26.     Senior guard [player_tooltip player_id='1950332' first='Justin' last='Bilal'] is set to make a major impact in his first season with Roosevelt after transferring from Lincoln. Long, athletic, fast up the court, and bouncy, Bilal has all the tools to be a breakout performer for the Rough Riders. His combination of shooting ability and rim-attacking power makes him a nightmare matchup for defenders. Expect Roosevelt to feature him early and often — his athleticism and flair for highlight-reel plays will give the Riders a spark on both ends of the floor. With his skill set and confidence, Bilal looks poised for a big senior season.     Junior guard [player_tooltip player_id='2132568' first='Lincoln' last='Bottum'] could be one of Mitchell's breakout ballers this season. A skilled and confident scorer, Bottum has deep shooting range that extends well beyond the high school three-point line. He's a crafty offensive player with an instinctive feel for scoring, whether it's knocking down jumpers, creating off the dribble, or finishing through contact. With his shooting touch and natural scoring ability, Bottum is poised to be a key piece for the Kernels this year and a player capable of putting up points in a hurry.     Senior forward [player_tooltip player_id='3028024' first='Mason' last='Karst'] is poised to be a breakout player for the Titans this season. He showed significant growth at the end of last year, finishing strong with two Double-Doubles and demonstrating his potential as a force inside. After working on his game over the summer, Karst looks like he is ready to elevate his impact on both ends of the floor. With his size, upgraded skill, and improved consistency, he could be a key player for MVP this season.     Poindexter gave the Elks valuable minutes last year, and after a strong off-season, he's poised to take on a larger role for ELB this year. The athletic senior has made noticeable strides in his game, showing major improvement over the past months. With his combination of athleticism, effort, and growing confidence, Poindexter is expected to step into the starting lineup and provide a boost in both scoring and rebounding. After an impressive summer, he looks ready to make a big impact for the Elks in the 2025–26 season.     [player_tooltip player_id='3028027' first='Trysten' last='Eide'] is a young talent ready to make a name for himself this season with the Titans. An up-and-comer who had a standout offseason, Eide has shown he could push for varsity minutes with his consistent work and growth. Over the course of the summer, he emerged as one of the best shooters in the MVP program. The Titans hope he can light up the scoreboard this winter. With his shooting ability and confidence, Eide has the potential to be a breakout baller in 2025–26.    <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><a href="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2021/08/PHD.jpg"><img src="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2021/08/PHD.jpg?w=400" alt="" class="wp-image-1272514" style="width:176px;height:auto" /></a></figure>

With basketball season fast approaching and practices set to begin in November, it's time to take a closer look at this year's Breakout Ballers — players primed to take significant steps forward. Some are preparing for expanded varsity roles, others are shifting into new positions, some are at new schools, and many are simply ready to showcase the growth they've put in during the offseason.