Class A Region 1: Breakout Ballers

A new season brings fresh storylines — a chance for emerging talent to step into the spotlight and for returning standouts to raise the bar. Class A Region 1 is home to tradition-rich programs and exciting teams ready to make their mark. Who will seize the moment in 2025–26? Time will tell, but one thing's certain — it's going to be a season worth watching.   At Prep Hoops Dakotas, we've highlighted one player from each program who's on the rise — athletes with the tools, drive, and opportunity to make a bigger impact this winter. Whether they're poised to become primary scorers, steady leaders, or versatile game-changers, these are the players to keep an eye on.   These are Region 1's breakout candidates — ready to rise when it matters most.   See below for baller comments...   Class A Region 1: Breakout Ballers   Central Cass    [player_tooltip player_id='2412094' first='Kole' last='Buhr'] is poised to be Central Cass's breakout player this season. While it remains to be seen whether he will start, he is expected to play heavy minutes and have a significant role for the Squirrels. Buhr is a pure shooter with excellent off-ball movement, creating space and opportunities for teammates with his range and ability to exploit weakside defenders. Over the past few months, he's added noticeable length and strength, a boost for a team that doesn't have a lot of size. With his shooting ability and improved physical tools, Buhr is set to be one of the top three-point threats in Region 1.    Kindred    [player_tooltip player_id='1632736' first='Gabe' last='Whipple'] is Kindred's breakout candidate this season as the Vikings transition after losing several key seniors. Currently, he is having a sensational football season as the team's quarterback. Whipple should enter the basketball season brimming with confidence. On the court, he's a capable and efficient shooter who spaces the floor, keeps defenses honest, and is deadly in catch-and-shoot situations. Whipple hustles for rebounds, demonstrates strong court vision, and delivers accurate passes, making him a versatile offensive threat. Under Coach Woehl, he's expected to become a tough, impactful defender, rounding out his all-around game.    Lisbon    [player_tooltip player_id='2277851' first='Hayden' last='Enger'] is Lisbon's breakout candidate this season after an impressive showing at The Expo and a solid club campaign with [program_tooltip program_id='2075723' first='ND' last='Attack']. He demonstrated his versatility by scoring inside and out, defending multiple positions, and creating turnovers that led to transition opportunities. Enger's smooth three-point stroke was on full display, and his confidence in catch-and-shoot situations makes him a consistent scoring threat from anywhere on the floor. With notable length, a fluid jumper, and reliable free-throw touch, he's poised for an expanded role with the Broncs this season. A dedicated worker whose skills continue to sharpen, Enger has the tools to make a significant impact on both ends of the court. Do he have what it takes to be an All-Region baller?    Northern Cass    [player_tooltip player_id='2276696' first='Brooks' last='Crockett'] is PHD's pick for Northern Cass's breakout player. He made a strong impression multiple times this offseason on the Prep Hoops Circuit. His standout traits are his defensive IQ, his ability to guard bigger players at the 4 and 5 spots, and his rebounding prowess for a guard — all crucial for a smaller team like Northern Cass. Offensively, Crockett has become a reliable shooter, added strength over the summer, and can now finish through contact on his drives. With his all-around game, Brooks will definitely be in the conversation for All-Region honors this season.    Oak Grove    [player_tooltip player_id='2237756' first='Pierce' last='Thomsen'] is Oak Grove's clear breakout candidate, and the sky is the limit for him. To take that next step, he needs more consistency and a stronger commitment to defense and rebounding. A gifted athlete, Thomsen can impact the game without relying solely on scoring. By attacking the boards and using his athleticism to disrupt opponents, he can shift momentum in Oak Grove's favor. At times he focuses too much on offense, but when he embraces the energy and effort plays his team needs, everything else falls into place. If he continues to grow throughout the season, Thomsen has the tools to elevate Oak Grove and play a major role down the stretch.    Valley City    Finn Doctor is Valley City's breakout candidate this season after an impressive offseason and a strong club campaign with Sanford Sports. He will be a vital part of the Hi-Liners, expected to start and play all three guard positions when needed, with the versatility to slide into the small forward spot at times. Dr. Finn's ball-handling skills will be key in bringing the ball up the court and navigating any full-court pressure the team faces. Offensively, he can score in multiple ways — from spot-up shooting to creating off the dribble and finishing at the rim. Finn can also post up smaller defenders effectively, making him a versatile scoring threat. He'll be counted on to score consistently in double figures. Arguably, the strongest part of his game is his defense. Finn takes great pride in shutting down opponents and will be tasked with guarding the other team's top player, serving as a defensive leader and anchor for the Hi-Liners.    Wahpeton    After missing part of last season with a knee injury, [player_tooltip player_id='2573831' first='Treyton' last='King'] didn't return to practice until late January and was just starting to crack the lineup by March. Now fully healthy, he's poised for a breakout year with the Huskies. King has added strength to his already solid frame, giving the Huskies a physical presence in the paint and a force on the glass alongside [player_tooltip player_id='2751295' first='Alex' last='Comings']. Defensively, he takes up space and brings toughness, while offensively, King is versatile. He can step out and hit the open three, attack the rim, and finish through contact. With defenses keying in on Wahpeton's guards, King is expected to provide an inside scoring punch that could make a major difference this season.    <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/12/ClassABasketball.jpg"><img src="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/12/ClassABasketball.jpg?w=865" alt="" class="wp-image-2713048" /></a></figure>

A new season brings fresh storylines — a chance for emerging talent to step into the spotlight and for returning standouts to raise the bar. Class A Region 1 is home to tradition-rich programs and exciting teams ready to make their mark. Who will seize the moment in 2025–26? Time will tell, but one thing's certain — it's going to be a season worth watching.