On the Rise: 2028 Forwards Ready to Climb the Rankings

These forwards have already proven they belong in the conversation with the skills that makes them standouts on the floor. What makes this group exciting is that they're just scratching the surface. Each one has the tools to climb even higher and make a real statement this season. Here's what to watch for as they take the next step in their development and look to elevate their spot into the rankings.    Cappellucci has shown flashes of why he's a name to keep an eye on heading into the season. He rebounds well for his size, using his long arms and instincts to track down loose balls and extend possessions. Offensively he's smooth and confident getting to his spots, rising up over defenders to knock down mid range and perimeter shots with ease. For him to take that next step and make the ranked list, consistency and assertiveness will be key. When he stays aggressive within the offensive flow and looks to create his own looks, he becomes a real scoring threat. Continuing to demand the ball, attack mismatches and stay active off the ball will help him solidify himself as a go to option and show he can produce at a high level night in and night out     Zubeck brings a strong interior presence with his 6'7 frame and physical style of play. He uses his size and strength to elevate over defenders for rebounds and finishes efficiently around the rim. What makes him even more dangerous is his ability to step out and knock down the mid range jumper, forcing defenders to respect him beyond the paint. Heading into the season, Zubeck's next step is to fully embrace his size and continue asserting himself as a dominant paint presence on both ends. By consistently sealing off defenders, demanding the ball inside and controlling the boards, he can become a true interior force. Defensively maintaining that same energy by protecting the rim, altering shots and keeping the lane clean will help him separate himself and make a strong case for the ranked list     Salsbery made a strong impression over the summer, proving he's a real threat every time he steps on the court. His shooting range was on full display, confidently knocking down shots from deep, and his combination of length and quickness allowed him to blow by defenders and finish strong at the rim. As he heads into the season, the next step in his development is fully utilizing his 6'5 frame to dominate both ends of the floor. Offensively continuing to rise up and shoot over smaller defenders will make him even tougher to guard. Defensively by using his length to disrupt passing lanes, close out on shooters and contest shots at the rim will make it tough on opponents. If he locks in on becoming a two way force, Salsbery has all the makings of a player ready to break into the ranked list     Kourouma brings an explosive scoring presence to the floor, using his speed, quickness and strength to relentlessly attack the rim. He moves well without the ball, cutting into open lanes and using his body to seal off defenders for easy finishes. His aggressiveness and motor make him a constant threat inside and in transition. To continue elevating his game, continuing to develop his mid range and perimeter shot will make him a complete offensive weapon and much harder to defend. On the other end channeling that same energy and intensity into his defense can help him become a true two way player. If he rounds out those areas, Kourouma has all the tools to push his way onto the ranked list     Ibrahim showed plenty of promise this summer, flashing a smooth and confident mid range jumper that makes him a tough cover. He consistently found ways to get to his spots, rise up and knock down shots with rhythm. He also displayed the ability to beat defenders off the dribble and get to the lane, showing a nice mix of control and poise in traffic. Heading into the season, the focus will be on expanding his offensive arsenal and continuing to grow under tougher defensive pressure. As he learns to read defenses, adjust to tighter coverage and make plays in high intensity moments, his overall game will elevate to the next level. With continued confidence and development, Ibrahim has the tools to become a reliable scoring option and a strong candidate for the ranked list

These forwards have already proven they belong in the conversation with the skills that makes them standouts on the floor. What makes this group exciting is that they're just scratching the surface. Each one has the tools to climb even higher and make a real statement this season. Here's what to watch for as they take the next step in their development and look to elevate their spot into the rankings.