2026 Rankings Update: Players Forcing Their Way Into The Mix

The Class of 2026 update is coming this week, and the movement is real. A group of players has elevated their games with dynamic, confident play that's impossible to ignore. These players are impacting wins, setting the tone and making nightly statements. Here are the names whose recent performances are forcing their way into the rankings and demanding a closer look when the update drops.    Schott's rise in the rankings is being fueled by winning, production and impact on both ends of the floor. As the floor general behind Holy Family's undefeated start, he's averaging 14.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 3.1 steals while setting the tone every night. His game starts on the defensive end, where his tough, physical on ball defense disrupts opponents, forces turnovers and ignites transition opportunities. Offensively he plays with poise and control, showing excellent ball handling and the ability to score from anywhere on the court. What separates Schott is his decision making as he consistently finds open cutters and shooters, keeps teammates involved and elevates everyone around him. His complete, winning approach is driving his rankings jump     Evans has been another major piece of Holy Family's success, impacting games in a way that goes beyond the box score. Like his teammates, his presence starts on the defensive end where his physicality, speed and anticipation create problems for opposing guards. He's averaging 12.2 points and 4.3 rebounds per game, but his real value comes in how he plays. Evans is a dangerous shooter, and when he gets hot from deep he can change the momentum of a game in a hurry. What truly separates him is the vision and unselfishness he plays with by consistently making the right read, finding open teammates and keeping the offense flowing. His two way impact and team first approach are pushing his stock higher     Thornton has been a steady force behind Denver North's surprising strong start, bringing leadership and confidence to the guard spot. He's averaging 14.1 points per game and plays bigger than his size, consistently making tough plays in key moments. As a shooter, he spaces the floor, but he's just as effective attacking inside where his toughness and body control show up. He mixes in a reliable floater that makes him hard to contain in the lane. Add in his nonstop hustle and willingness to do the dirty work, and Thornton sets the tone for his team on both ends. That combination of production, versatility and leadership is what's driving Denver North's rise and pushing Thornton firmly into the rankings conversation     Chavez has stepped into the role of senior leader that Horizon has needed, and his impact has been consistent all season. He's averaging 14.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game while serving as a reliable presence with the ball in his hands. As a scorer he's confident and composed, knocking down jumpers and stretching the defense with his three point shooting. What stands out most is his trustworthiness as a ball handler where he makes smart decisions, limits mistakes and keeps the offense organized. His ability to balance scoring with playmaking, especially in pressure moments, is translating to wins and steady production. That combination of leadership, efficiency and shot making is why Chavez's play is pushing him firmly into the rankings conversation     Sandoval is coming on fast and has taken a noticeable jump this season, increasing his production across the board for Bear Creek. He's averaging 14.1 points, 3.1 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game, and he's at his best with the ball in his hands. Sandoval plays with pace but stays under control, using tight handles to break down defenders and get downhill where he finishes through contact. He's a true three level scorer who can hurt defenses from anywhere on the floor. On the other end his defensive instincts stand out, as he anticipates passing lanes and competes every possession. That blend of improved numbers, offensive versatility and two way impact is why Sandoval's stock is rising quickly

The Class of 2026 update is coming this week, and the movement is real. A group of players has elevated their games with dynamic, confident play that's impossible to ignore. These players are impacting wins, setting the tone and making nightly statements. Here are the names whose recent performances are forcing their way into the rankings and demanding a closer look when the update drops.