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19 More Early Season Standouts

19 More Early Season Standouts
Michael Herrick
Michael Herrick December 28, 2025 @ 08:25 PM
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In this article:

Noah Luthemers
Noah Luthemers 6'3" | PG | 2027
SD
Julian Tonche
Julian Tonche 5'10" | CG | 2026
SD
Brady Nelson
Brady Nelson 6'2" | PF | 2027
ND
Eli Maack
Eli Maack 6'1" | SF | 2028
ND
Andrew Zimmerman
Andrew Zimmerman 6'6" | PF | 2028
SD
Will Aderhold
Will Aderhold 6'5" | C/PF | 2028
SD
Ben Brodina
Ben Brodina 6'3" | CG | 2028
ND
Leonard Wernke
Leonard Wernke 6'6" | C | 2026
SD
Hayden Enger
Hayden Enger 6'6" | SF/PF | 2027
ND
Brooks Crockett
Brooks Crockett 6'0" | SG | 2028
ND
James Schindler
James Schindler 5'10" | PG | 2027
ND
Jesse Zephier
Jesse Zephier 6'1" | PG/SG | 2027
SD
Keaton Batke
Keaton Batke 6'2" | CG | 2027
ND
Braylon Little
Braylon Little 6'0" | CG | 2026
SD
Collin Swenson
Collin Swenson 5'11" | SF/SG | 2026
ND
Ethan Retterath
Ethan Retterath 6'2" | SF | 2027
ND
Cameron Cordero
Cameron Cordero 5'9" | CG | 2026
ND
Brooks Bakko
Brooks Bakko 6'6" | CG | 2027
ND
Collin Williams
Collin Williams 6'5" | PF | 2026
ND
<!-- wp:paragraph {"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size">The high school basketball season is still in its early stages, but many players across North Dakota and South Dakota are making their mark. Through strong performances, clutch playmaking, and splashy production, these athletes have stood out early and shown the ability to impact games.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"style":{"typography":{"fontStyle":"normal","fontWeight":"100"}},"fontSize":"medium"} --> <p class="has-medium-font-size" style="font-style:normal;font-weight:100">In <em>More Early Season Standouts</em>, Prep Hoops Dakotas highlights another group of players who have looked sharp out of the gate. From established contributors to emerging names, these players have played at a high level early and are worth keeping an eye on as the season moves forward.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":3273753,"width":"248px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"full","linkDestination":"media"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/12/image_9f5a07.png"><img src="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/12/image_9f5a07.png" alt="" class="wp-image-3273753" style="width:248px;height:auto" /></a></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2545290"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-695189ea6f0d4"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-Had a hot start on opening weekend against Aberdeen Central</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Went for an impressive 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 blocks vs. Aberdeen</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Youngster to keep eyes on w/ length &amp; the ability to change the game inside</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2415382"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6951e691524dd"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-Has helped the #1 Firebirds to a perfect 5-0 record</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Stepped up his scoring ability from all levels</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Accepting the role of defending the opposing team's top player</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Bring ubiquitous intensity and a high-octane competitiveness to the team </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2897488"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6951aeb89b48b"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-Solid role guy for the 2-0 Cardinals, southpaw</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-Has taken a step forward this season, plays bigger than his height</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Productive at securing rebounds, has a quality post-game</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Also does a good job of bringing humor to the team and keeping things light</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1842419"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6951cf1572df6"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-Helped Crusaders win the LNI Championship, currently have a 5-0 record</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Leading the team on &amp; off the court</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Pure playmaker, smart/clever/skilled</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Makes correct plays at the perfect time, everyone is better w/ Braylon on the court</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1484338"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6951aeb89b4eb"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-A generational athlete we rarely see in ND</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Star for the Vikings who are 2-0 &amp; ranked #3</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Averaging around 23 ppg &amp; 9 rpg</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Do-it-all player who will get a ton of attention from the D &amp; still produce</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2276696"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6951cf1572e7a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-Showed that he can really score the rock, legit threat from all over the court</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Recently put up 29 points and grabbed 10 rebounds vs. Cass Lake-Bena</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-The Jags must love getting a Double-Double from a soph!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1541300"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69518db6ea1af"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-Lead guard for the 4-0 Broncos</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-3 year varsity starter, has elevated his overall play in his senior season</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Scores from every level &amp; has improved his ability to find the open man for open shots</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Gets to the basket to finish or kicks for an open three</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-His D-game has taken off, leads transition by being a thief on defense</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1632699"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6951cf1572ee3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-Plays super hard, ultra competitive, gives great effort</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Shooting the ball extremely well &amp; putting up points</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-The ultimate teammate and he hoops with a high basketball IQ</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1327798"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6951cf1572f2a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-A workhorse so far this season, at this rate, Williams will be an All-State player</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-On Friday in St. Cloud against a 4A MN squad, Collin recorded a Double-Double</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-26 points &amp; 21 rebounds, and a wild 10 offensive boards vs. Champlin Park</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2573805"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6951aeb89b55e"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-Solid start for the #3 ranked Vikings (2-0 record)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-15 ppg &amp; 6 rpg, cice complementary player to Bakko</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Lefty who is shooting very well, rebounding better than expected</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1542352"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6951aeb89b5ab"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Helped the Cards to a 2-0 record, exceeding expectations</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Averaging 20+ ppg &amp; is still a monster on defense</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Has become an all-around ball player</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Brings quality shooting, great leadership, and tough defense to the floor </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2277851"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69518db6ea20d"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-Returned from an ACL that cost him his soph season, now leading the charge for the Broncs </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-4-0 record, averaging 16 ppg &amp; 11 rpg, Double-Double machine</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-His gmae is fire right now, scores from all 3 levels, dominates the glass, controls the game</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Defensively his game is getting better every day, does a great job defending the rim as well</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2237807"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6951cf1572fc4"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-Looking tough to start the year, shooting/scoring well</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-22 pp, 3.8 rpg, 2 apg, 46.9 FG%, 40.6 3FG%</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Impressive/creative finisher, confident/accurate shooter, sets his feet quickly &amp; lets it fly with a soft release</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Great footwork &amp; handles, scores w/ both hands at the hoop, crafty playmaker</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2132820"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-695174ef401ce"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-The Red Raiders are 2-0 on the season &amp; Zephier is shining bright</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Went for 25 points in the first game of the season</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Averaging 18 ppg, 3 rpg, 3 apg, 2 spg</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Creative slasher, smooth/accurate from 3pt land, crafty in the paint, soft shot</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["3274021"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6951cf1573028"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-Helped the Crusaders win the LNI Championship, currently have a 5-0 record</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Looking good early in the season, new name for PHD, player to watch</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-He changes the game on the defensive end of the floor</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Can also score the rock when the team needs a bucket</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2132776"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6951cf1573070"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-PHD watched yesterday &amp; Keaton was impressive, went off for 29 points</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Averaging around 28 ppg, 8 rpg, 5 spg, 5 apg, 46 3FG%</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Has the ball in his hands a ton &amp; is aggressive, but only averaging 1 TO per game</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Doing everything the coaching staff has asked, growing into his body &amp; thriving</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Physically strong, skilled, creative, shot-maker, scores through contact, good at getting to the line, three-level scorer</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2343444"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6951936baf9a8"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-Has helped the Warriors to a perfect 2-0 record</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Averaging a solid 12.5 ppg &amp; 8.6 rpg</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>He &amp; Aderhold make up twin towers for the Class B powerhouse</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Strong &amp; tough, likely a future college football player</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["3274239"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6951e9703b669"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-PG for the 3-0 Bulldogs and they have beat 3 very solid teams</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Averaging 22 ppg, 5 rpg, 3 apg, playing GREAT</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Improved a ton since last season, upgraded his scoring through contact &amp; is excelling at getting down the paint &amp; to the rim</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Consistent 3-shooter, has hit clutch shots against tough teams</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Excellent rebounder for a PG, Luthemers is a fierce ball player and a name to know in Class B basketball</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2433399"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-69518ec7b7f76"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">-2-0 on the year and averaging 13 ppg</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-Three DUNKs in two games, does all his scoring in the paint</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>-He is all over the boards, explosive athlete, huge upside, next-level potential</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:image {"id":2950876,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"media"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/08/NDSD.jpg"><img src="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/08/NDSD.jpg?w=865" alt="" class="wp-image-2950876" /></a></figure> <!-- /wp:image -->

The high school basketball season is still in its early stages, but many players across North Dakota and South Dakota are making their mark. Through strong performances, clutch playmaking, and splashy production, these athletes have stood out early and shown the ability to impact games.

Andrew Zimmerman

Andrew Zimmerman

SD
PF
HEIGHT 6'6"
POS PF
CLASS 2028
View Player
​
Andrew
Zimmerman PF
Class
2028
Height
6'6"
HS
Rapid City Stevens
|
SD
19 More Early Season Standouts
-Had a hot start on opening weekend against Aberdeen Central -Went for an impressive 18 points, 10 rebounds,...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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Andrew Zimmerman

State: South Dakota
School: Rapid City Stevens
Club: Sanford Sports Academy SF
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Highlights

Ben Brodina

Ben Brodina

ND
CG
HEIGHT 6'3"
POS CG
CLASS 2028
View Player
​
Ben
Brodina CG
Class
2028
Height
6'3"
HS
Devils Lake
|
ND
19 More Early Season Standouts
-Has helped the #1 Firebirds to a perfect 5-0 record -Stepped up his scoring ability from all levels...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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Ben Brodina

State: North Dakota
School: Devils Lake
Club: Sanford Sports Academy ND
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Highlights

Brady Nelson

Brady Nelson

HEIGHT 6'2"
POS PF
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Brady
Nelson PF
Class
2027
Height
6'2"
HS
Washburn
|
ND
19 More Early Season Standouts
-Solid role guy for the 2-0 Cardinals, southpaw -Has taken a step forward this season, plays bigger than...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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Brady Nelson

Instagram
State: North Dakota
School: Washburn
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Highlights

Braylon Little

Braylon Little

SD
CG
HEIGHT 6'0"
POS CG
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Braylon
Little CG
Class
2026
Height
6'0"
HS
Mahpiya Luta(Red Cloud)
|
SD
19 More Early Season Standouts
-Helped Crusaders win the LNI Championship, currently have a 5-0 record -Leading the team on & off the...
Written by Michael Herrick
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Braylon Little

Instagram Twitter
State: South Dakota
School: Mahpiya Luta(Red Cloud)
Club: Network Elite Basketball
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Highlights

Brooks Bakko

Brooks Bakko

ND
CG
HEIGHT 6'6"
POS CG
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Brooks
Bakko CG
Class
2027
Height
6'6"
HS
Kindred
|
ND
19 More Early Season Standouts
-A generational athlete we rarely see in ND -Star for the Vikings who are 2-0 & ranked #3...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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Brooks Bakko

State: North Dakota
School: Kindred
Club: ND Phenom
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Highlights

Brooks Crockett

Brooks Crockett

ND
SG
HEIGHT 6'0"
POS SG
CLASS 2028
View Player
​
Brooks
Crockett SG
Class
2028
Height
6'0"
HS
Northern Cass
|
ND
19 More Early Season Standouts
-Showed that he can really score the rock, legit threat from all over the court -Recently put up...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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Brooks Crockett

State: North Dakota
School: Northern Cass
Club: West Central United
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Highlights

Mayville State
Cameron Cordero

Cameron Cordero

ND
CG
HEIGHT 5'9"
POS CG
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Cameron
Cordero CG
Class
2026
Height
5'9"
HS
Lisbon
|
ND
19 More Early Season Standouts
-Lead guard for the 4-0 Broncos -3 year varsity starter, has elevated his overall play in his senior...
Written by Michael Herrick
Mayville State
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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Cameron Cordero

Instagram Twitter
State: North Dakota
School: Lisbon
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Highlights

Collin Swenson

Collin Swenson

ND
SF/SG
HEIGHT 5'11"
POS SF/SG
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Collin
Swenson SF/SG
Class
2026
Height
5'11"
HS
Our Redeemer's
|
ND
19 More Early Season Standouts
-Plays super hard, ultra competitive, gives great effort -Shooting the ball extremely well & putting up points -The...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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Collin Swenson

Instagram
State: North Dakota
School: Our Redeemer's
Club: ND Attack
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Highlights

Collin Williams

Collin Williams

ND
PF
HEIGHT 6'5"
POS PF
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Collin
Williams PF
Class
2026
Height
6'5"
HS
Fargo Davies
|
ND
19 More Early Season Standouts
-A workhorse so far this season, at this rate, Williams will be an All-State player -On Friday in...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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Collin Williams

Twitter
State: North Dakota
School: Fargo Davies
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Highlights

Eli Maack

Eli Maack

ND
SF
HEIGHT 6'1"
POS SF
CLASS 2028
View Player
​
Eli
Maack SF
Class
2028
Height
6'1"
HS
Kindred
|
ND
19 More Early Season Standouts
-Solid start for the #3 ranked Vikings (2-0 record) -15 ppg & 6 rpg, cice complementary player to...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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Eli Maack

State: North Dakota
School: Kindred
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Highlights

Ethan Retterath

Ethan Retterath

ND
SF
HEIGHT 6'2"
POS SF
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Ethan
Retterath SF
Class
2027
Height
6'2"
HS
Washburn
|
ND
19 More Early Season Standouts
-Helped the Cards to a 2-0 record, exceeding expectations -Averaging 20+ ppg & is still a monster on...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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Ethan Retterath

State: North Dakota
School: Washburn
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Highlights

Hayden Enger

Hayden Enger

ND
SF/PF
HEIGHT 6'6"
POS SF/PF
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Hayden
Enger SF/PF
Class
2027
Height
6'6"
HS
Lisbon
|
ND
19 More Early Season Standouts
-Returned from an ACL that cost him his soph season, now leading the charge for the Broncs -4-0...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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Hayden Enger

Instagram Twitter
State: North Dakota
School: Lisbon
Club: ND Attack
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Highlights

James Schindler

James Schindler

ND
PG
HEIGHT 5'10"
POS PG
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
James
Schindler PG
Class
2027
Height
5'10"
HS
Grand Forks Red River
|
ND
19 More Early Season Standouts
-Looking tough to start the year, shooting/scoring well -22 pp, 3.8 rpg, 2 apg, 46.9 FG%, 40.6 3FG%...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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James Schindler

State: North Dakota
School: Grand Forks Red River
Club: Sanford Sports Academy ND
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Highlights

Jesse Zephier

Jesse Zephier

SD
PG/SG
HEIGHT 6'1"
POS PG/SG
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Jesse
Zephier PG/SG
Class
2027
Height
6'1"
HS
Wagner
|
SD
19 More Early Season Standouts
-The Red Raiders are 2-0 on the season & Zephier is shining bright -Went for 25 points in...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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Jesse Zephier

State: South Dakota
School: Wagner
Club: Sanford Sports Academy SF
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Highlights

Julian Tonche

Julian Tonche

HEIGHT 5'10"
POS CG
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Julian
Tonche CG
Class
2026
Height
5'10"
HS
Mahpíya-Red Cloud
|
SD
19 More Early Season Standouts
-Helped the Crusaders win the LNI Championship, currently have a 5-0 record -Looking good early in the season,...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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Julian Tonche

State: South Dakota
School: Mahpíya-Red Cloud
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Highlights

Keaton Batke

Keaton Batke

ND
CG
HEIGHT 6'2"
POS CG
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Keaton
Batke CG
Class
2027
Height
6'2"
HS
Hazen
|
ND
19 More Early Season Standouts
-PHD watched yesterday & Keaton was impressive, went off for 29 points -Averaging around 28 ppg, 8 rpg,...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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Keaton Batke

State: North Dakota
School: Hazen
Club: Bears Tail Basketball
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Highlights

Leonard Wernke

Leonard Wernke

SD
C
HEIGHT 6'6"
POS C
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Leonard
Wernke C
Class
2026
Height
6'6"
HS
Castlewood
|
SD
19 More Early Season Standouts
-Has helped the Warriors to a perfect 2-0 record -Averaging a solid 12.5 ppg & 8.6 rpg He...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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Leonard Wernke

State: South Dakota
School: Castlewood
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Highlights

Noah Luthemers

Noah Luthemers

HEIGHT 6'3"
POS PG
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Noah
Luthemers PG
Class
2027
Height
6'3"
HS
DeSmet
|
SD
19 More Early Season Standouts
-PG for the 3-0 Bulldogs and they have beat 3 very solid teams -Averaging 22 ppg, 5 rpg,...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
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Noah Luthemers

State: South Dakota
School: DeSmet
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Highlights

Will Aderhold

Will Aderhold

SD
C/PF
HEIGHT 6'5"
POS C/PF
CLASS 2028
View Player
​
Will
Aderhold C/PF
Class
2028
Height
6'5"
HS
Castlewood
|
SD
19 More Early Season Standouts
-2-0 on the year and averaging 13 ppg -Three DUNKs in two games, does all his scoring in...
Written by Michael Herrick
Read more at PrepHoops.com
Prep Hoops

Will Aderhold

State: South Dakota
School: Castlewood
Club: Dakota Niners
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Highlights

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