These 2026 Guards Have My Attention As The Season Approaches

After some standout summers and eye opening fall league performances, this group of guards has officially grabbed my attention. They've shown flashes and have the upside that makes you circle dates on the calendar just to watch them hoop. As we get that much closer to tipoff these are the players I can't wait to see again in person. If you're looking for the next wave of backcourt talent to keep your eyes on, this is the group you don't want to overlook.    Clark is one of those players who instantly stands out because of how naturally he reads the game. As a passer he has the vision and timing that make everyone around him better. In fall league with Denver South he saw cutters before they even broke open and delivered the ball right where it needed to be. When he decides to attack he gets to the hoop with purpose, using his quickness and instincts to slice through defenders and finish strong. What really makes Clark special is how active he is on every possession. He never drifts, never slows down and is always finding a way to impact the play. I'm excited to watch him this season because he's the type of guard who can control a game quietly, confidently and consistently     Nitzel had an impressive summer and is primed for a huge season at University, and his all around game is a big reason why. He plays bigger than his frame, never shying away from contact and constantly looking to impose himself inside. He's also just as comfortable stepping out and knocking down shots, giving him a versatile scoring package that keeps defenders guessing. His floater is smooth, his hustle is nonstop and he always seems to be involved in the play, whether he's crashing the lane or tracking down loose balls. On defense Nitzel brings an aggressive edge, pressuring opponents and making every touch difficult. With his effort, versatility and confidence trending up, he's set to be a major presence for this season     Starr is lined up for a massive season at St. Mary's, and his skill set fits perfectly with what the team needs. He's a smooth, reliable shooter who can knock down the three and stretch the floor, forcing defenses to stay honest and creating valuable spacing for the offense. His handles are controlled and effective and he doesn't play wild or rushed, always staying poised and making smart decisions with the ball. That balance of discipline and confidence makes him tough to guard. On the defensive end Starr flips the switch and gets right into opponents, playing intense, in your face defense that disrupts rhythm and forces mistakes. With his shooting, composure and gritty mindset, Starr is set to be a major difference maker this year     Vandermeer is set to be a true anchor this season, bringing a defensive presence that instantly changes the feel of the game. He applies pressure from the opening tip, using active hands to disrupt passing lanes, poke balls loose and make opponents uncomfortable. What makes him so valuable is how well he holds his ground and doesn't get pushed around, doesn't bite on fakes and forces players into tough shots or turnovers. On top of that his guard instincts really stand out. He sees opportunities developing before they happen, turning stops into scoring chances and jump starting the offense with smart decisions. Vandermeer's toughness, awareness and relentless defensive mindset make him a key piece who will elevate Lewis Palmer all year     Hemme had a big summer of growth and a huge reason he's expected to be a major piece for Timnath this season. He impacts the game everywhere from scoring, defending, pushing the pace and keeping the ball moving with sharp passes and strong vision. He can shoot it when he's in rhythm, finish in transition and make the right read when defenses collapse. On the defensive end he brings energy and versatility, sliding his feet, contesting shots and jumping into passing lanes. Hemme just has that “do everything” feel to his game, the type of player who fills gaps and elevates everyone around him. With his confidence rising and his skill set rounding out, Hemme is ready for a big year

After some standout summers and eye opening fall league performances, this group of guards has officially grabbed my attention. They've shown flashes and have the upside that makes you circle dates on the calendar just to watch them hoop. As we get that much closer to tipoff these are the players I can't wait to see again in person. If you're looking for the next wave of backcourt talent to keep your eyes on, this is the group you don't want to overlook.