Top Uncommitted Texas Prospects: 6'1" and Under

In a class loaded with size and athleticism, the smaller guards continue to prove that impact isn't measured in inches. The 2026 group of uncommitted prospects standing 6'1" and under brings toughness, pace control, and shot-making that translate at every level of the game. These guards compete with energy, guard the ball with intent, and consistently create advantages off the dribble. What sets them apart is their feel—each one can initiate offense, close possessions with poise, and shift momentum through sheer competitiveness. As recruiting boards tighten, these undersized playmakers remain some of the most intriguing available backcourt pieces in the country.    [player_tooltip player_id='2144879' first='Kamden' last='McGilveary'] is an athletic playmaker whose physical profile far exceeds his 6'1” frame. He plays with an elastic explosiveness, elevating off two feet with hang time that lets him finish above or around length. His long wingspan allows him to defend up a position and create deflections in passing lanes. Offensively, he's an assertive downhill driver who combines burst with control—able to stop on a dime for his pull-up or find a cutter on the collapse. McGilveary's jumper mechanics are consistent both off the catch and off the bounce, making him a dual-level threat in secondary actions.   ✅ Explosive downhill creation and rim pressure ✅ Consistent mid-range and spot-up shooting mechanics ✅ Length and activity as an on-ball defender     [player_tooltip player_id='2077355' first='Elijah' last='Garrett'] is a smooth, skilled offensive guard capable of toggling between playmaker and scorer roles. He shows comfort handling in tight spaces, using controlled footwork and vision to find cutters or shooters. Garrett's shooting mechanics are consistent from the perimeter, and he can operate effectively out of ball screens. Defensively, he holds his ground in space and uses anticipation to disrupt rhythm dribblers. His versatility and feel make him a strong backcourt asset in modern pace-and-space systems.   ✅ Playmaking versatility between guard spots ✅ Reliable shooting mechanics and decision-making ✅ Defensive discipline and spatial awareness     [player_tooltip player_id='1593256' first='Jaylen' last='Crittendon'] is a tenacious lead guard who thrives on playmaking and relentless pace. He consistently probes the defense, using his handle and burst to create separation and find open teammates. Crittendon's three-level scoring ability makes him a constant threat—he can finish creatively at the rim, hit floaters, or pull up from deep with confidence. His activity and competitiveness spark runs, and he plays with a motor that sets the tone for his team. Coaches will appreciate his energy, toughness, and ability to initiate offense under pressure.   ✅ Three-level scoring versatility ✅ Dynamic handle and creation for others ✅ High motor and competitive edge     Johnathan Williams is a strong, explosive guard with a compact frame built for physical play. He gets downhill with power, absorbing contact while finishing through traffic. Williams is comfortable pulling up off the dribble and shows reliable mechanics in the mid-range area. His physicality extends to the defensive end, where he takes pride in cutting off driving lanes and contesting without fouling. He projects as a high-effort two-way guard who impacts games with toughness and energy.   ✅ Strength and contact balance on drives ✅ Mid-range scoring and controlled pull-up game ✅ Defensive toughness and effort     [player_tooltip player_id='1560923' first='Kingston' last='Willis'] is a mature floor leader who commands pace and tempo like a veteran. He can shift gears in transition or in the half court, always maintaining control of the game's rhythm. His ability to read coverages and manipulate defenders allows him to create efficient looks for himself and teammates. Willis is a shot creator who thrives in clutch situations, showing poise and confidence beyond his age. Defensively, he's disciplined in space and communicates effectively, anchoring the guard line with leadership and grit. He's attending Crowley high school for his senior year.   ✅ Leadership and command of pace ✅ Shot creation and playmaking versatility ✅ Defensive composure and communication in space     [player_tooltip player_id='2077362' first='Xavion' last='Lawson-Kennedy'] is a gritty, multipurpose guard who impacts the game well beyond the box score. He guards the best opposing player regardless of position, using strong lateral movement and anticipation. Lawson-Kennedy brings a steady shooting stroke from the perimeter and understands spacing and timing within offensive flow. His willingness to do the small things—box out, rotate, communicate—makes him a valuable teammate. He's a guard whose presence raises the floor for any unit he's part of.   ✅ Perimeter shooting and floor spacing ✅ On-ball defense and competitive toughness ✅ High-IQ team play and intangible impact     Theo Brannan is a high-IQ playmaker with a strong understanding of tempo, spacing, and situational decision-making. He scores at all three levels with confidence, using a balanced base and efficient release to convert under pressure. Brannan excels late in games where poise and reads matter most, often closing possessions with smart choices rather than forced shots. His defensive awareness allows him to anticipate passing lanes and turn stops into instant transition opportunities. He's a well-rounded guard who impacts winning through control, leadership, and defensive engagement. He's attending South Central Prep in Oklahoma for his senior year.   ✅ Three-level scoring and late-game poise ✅ Advanced decision-making and pace control ✅ Defensive awareness and extra-possession creation     [player_tooltip player_id='1560943' first='Michael' last='Gatewood'] is an explosive playmaking guard with the ability to take over games as a scorer when he finds rhythm. His quick first step separates him from defenders, allowing him to create paint touches and open looks for himself or teammates. Gatewood can get hot in a hurry, thriving in transition or isolation settings where his confidence and shot-making come alive. He brings energy and tempo to his team, constantly putting pressure on opposing defenses. Defensively, he's active and disruptive on the ball, jumping passing lanes and igniting fast breaks with his anticipation. Gatewood projects as a high-upside piece for programs that thrive in pace-and-space systems.   ✅ Explosive first step and creation burst ✅ Scoring versatility with microwave ability ✅ Active on-ball defense and transition energy     [player_tooltip player_id='1560939' first='Jacoby' last='Lovings'] is an electric offensive point guard built to excel in uptempo systems. He combines shiftiness and pace, constantly putting pressure on defenders with his ability to change speeds and directions. Lovings can score at all three levels—finishing with touch at the rim, pulling up with balance in the mid-range, and stretching defenses with consistent perimeter shooting. His vision and timing as a passer elevate those around him, making him equally dangerous as a facilitator. With his blend of scoring and creativity, Lovings projects as a dynamic lead guard who can both initiate and finish possessions at the next level.   ✅ Three-level scoring with confident shot creation ✅ Dynamic handle and change-of-pace playmaking ✅ Offensive versatility suited for uptempo systems

In a class loaded with size and athleticism, the smaller guards continue to prove that impact isn't measured in inches. The 2026 group of uncommitted prospects standing 6'1" and under brings toughness, pace control, and shot-making that translate at every level of the game. These guards compete with energy, guard the ball with intent, and consistently create advantages off the dribble. What sets them apart is their feel—each one can initiate offense, close possessions with poise, and shift momentum through sheer competitiveness. As recruiting boards tighten, these undersized playmakers remain some of the most intriguing available backcourt pieces in the country.