Midseason Check-In: 2026 Guards Gaining Traction

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2046215' first='Owen' last='McLaughlin'] | W | 2026 | New Smyrna Beach | @OwenMcL2026</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>McLaughlin brings good size and athleticism on the wing and has been productive through the first stretch of the season. He scores within the flow, rebounds his position well, and uses his length to contest shots and disrupt passing lanes. When he plays with confidence and stays consistent, his impact shows on both ends. Trending toward a solid breakout year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1770030' first='JT' last='Tipton'] | G | 2026 | Lecanto | @jttipton10</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Tipton plays with composure and a strong feel for the game. Had a solid 33 point game the other night. He shoots it well from the perimeter, sees the floor clearly, and does a good job keeping teammates involved. Competes defensively and isn't afraid of late-game moments.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1633083' first='Kristopher' last='Foote'] | CG | 2026 | Clearwater | @KrisFoote2026</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Foote's versatility stands out. He brings steady effort, physicality, and two-way production. Capable of scoring in multiple ways while also rebounding and defending his position. His strength and competitiveness provide value on both ends, and his confidence as a scorer continues to grow as the season moves along.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1633098' first='Devan' last='Jones'] | G | 2026 | Charlotte | @Devanjones_5</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Jones is a tough, downhill guard who plays with pace and physicality. He absorbs contact, pressures the rim, and brings consistent energy defensively. At 6-2, he makes smart reads and impacts the game beyond the box score. A reliable guard who helps this program win.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2420848' first='Braylen' last='Moore'] | G | 2026 | Lecanto | @Braaylenn</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Moore's athleticism and aggressiveness make him a constant factor. He attacks the basket hard, draws fouls, and finishes through contact. Effective in transition and comfortable creating off the bounce. One of Lecanto's go-to options when momentum is needed.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1633108' first='Brody' last='Church'] | CG | 2026 | CCC | @thebrodychurch</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Church has taken steps forward as a combo guard. He shoots it well from deep, continues to improve as a decision-maker, and can manage the tempo when needed. At 6-3, his size and shot-making give him flexibility in the backcourt. A steady piece with continued upside.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->