SD Upgraded and Improved

The jump from one season to the next—or even from month to month—can say a lot about a basketball player. Improvement doesn't always show up the same way for everyone. Sometimes it's a stat jump, sometimes it's expanded responsibility, and other times it's the little things that help teams win.   In “Upgraded & Improved,” Prep Hoops Dakotas shines a spotlight on players who have taken a noticeable step forward this season. That growth can come from added confidence, refined skills, increased production, or embracing a role that impacts winning in meaningful ways. Whether it's a featured scorer raising their ceiling or a depth piece carving out a bigger presence, these are the players who are trending up.   The names below reflect coaches' insight, film evaluation, and on-court impact. These ballers have put in the work and it's showing.   <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><a href="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/08/UpgradedImproved.jpg"><img src="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/08/UpgradedImproved.jpg?w=865" alt="" class="wp-image-2525433" style="width:314px;height:auto" /></a></figure>   [player_tooltip player_id='2250339' first='Bennett' last='Jensen'] (2027) |6'0 G| Harrisburg   WHY?   Bennett is a textbook Upgraded & Improved candidate, and this Tiger is absolutely on the prowl! Given the opportunity to step into a lead-guard role, Jensen has done more than just fill the spot, he's thriving. All he needed was a chance, and he's taken full advantage. Jensen is playing with confidence on full display, handling the ball with poise and precision while calmly breaking down pressure defense. He's shown impressive patience, consistently taking quality shots within the flow of the offense, and his ability to knock down jumpers makes him a true sniper. In transition, he is decisive and productive, turning opportunities into positive plays. He's off to a hot start this season, and the way Jensen's hooping suggests it's no fluke. If this level of play continues, don't be surprised if Jensen starts to find himself firmly in the All-State conversation.   [player_tooltip player_id='2370747' first='Colt' last='Keiser'] (2026) |6'6 F| Gregory   WHY?   Colt averaged 9.7 ppg and 4.4 rpg last year as a junior. As a senior this season, he is averaging 20 ppg and 10 rpg, Keiser is a walking Double-Double. The biggest change from Colt's junior to senior season is a shift in mindset and what the team needs. Last year, the Gorillas had more balance all around. This year, Keiser has had to step up and provide a big chunk of the scoring. The mindset is more in the rebounding aspect. Colt is a gifted athlete at 6'6" and he puts himself in a position to use his athleticism on the boards. On top of increasing his scoring production, Colt is a great defender who can defend every position on the floor. He is often asked to defend the opponent's top scorer, no matter what position on the floor. Gregory currently has a 4-4 record.   [player_tooltip player_id='2052801' first='Erik' last='Losure'] (2026) |6'0 G| Leola-Frederick   WHY?   Erick spent many hours in the weight room this summer. His decision-making has noticeably improved, and he is playing within himself. Losure can get to his spot on the floor, where he is best offensively and is strong and physical on the glass. The Titans are having a very nice season and have an 8-2 record.   [player_tooltip player_id='3427044' first='Jacob' last='Cole'] (2026) |6'4 F| Alcester-Hudson   WHY?   Last season Jacob averaged 6 points and 5 rebounds per game. This season, Cole has averaged 15 points and 10 rebounds. He is a Double-Double machine. He has become a big force inside, where his size and athleticism get him a lot of baskets. Jacob has realized that the team needs him to score and he does a great job of attacking on almost every opportunity he gets. The Cubs currently have a 5-6 record.   [player_tooltip player_id='3028024' first='Mason' last='Karst'] (2026) |6'5 C| Mt. Vernon-Plankinton   WHY?   Mason is a perfect fit for the Upgraded & Improved feature, as his journey has been defined by perseverance and steady growth. His sophomore season was derailed by a significant knee injury, and much of his junior year was spent working his way back, limiting his varsity impact until he found his stride late in the season and earned a starting role. This year, Karst has taken a major leap, emerging as a consistent Double-Double threat with multiple games of double-figure points and rebounds. His biggest improvement has come on the defensive end, where he now provides real rim protection and a physical presence in the paint. He has also grown into a quiet but respected vocal leader, and his dedication to the weight room during his rehab has clearly paid off for the MVP Titans. The squad currently has a 5-5 record.   [player_tooltip player_id='2565904' first='Oliver' last='Waltner'] (2027) |6'4 F| Freeman   WHY?   Oliver has made noticeable strides as a dependable interior presence and a consistent force on the glass. His effort level and improved skill set have had a clear impact on his team's success. Waltner continues to be a positive contributor for the Flyers, who are off to a strong 8–2 start and currently sit ranked No. 8 in Class B.   [player_tooltip player_id='2253896' first='Tayden' last='Kerrigan'] (2028) |6'0 G| Freeman   WHY?   Tayden has stepped up his leadership as the point guard for the Flyers. He has improved his ball-handling, shooting, and overall feel for the game. However, it's his effort on defense that has been upgraded and improved the most. The Flyers are ranked #8 in Class B and have a 8-2 record.   [player_tooltip player_id='1551734' first='Kale' last='Knudson'] (2027) |6'2 G| & [player_tooltip player_id='2362037' first='Shooter' last='Frederick'] (2027) |6'5 G| Mobridge-Pollack    WHY?   Kale and Shooter have taken major steps forward this season for the MoPo Tigers, both literally and figuratively, after adding inches and elevating their overall games. The duo has emerged as the team's leading scorers, with Knudson averaging 17 points per game and Frederick close behind at 13 ppg, consistently filling the stat sheet on a nightly basis. Knudson's commitment in the weight room has paid off in a big way, as he's now dunking and creating difficult matchup problems for opponents. Knudson has been the Tigers' go-to option when it's time to get downhill, making plays at the rim, knocking down mid-range shots, and creating opportunities for others. Shooter has also boosted his athleticism, improving his vertical and finishing with authority above the rim, while making a strong impact on the defensive end, most notably holding Miller's stud player, [player_tooltip player_id='1548639' first='Isaak' last='Hunter'], to just seven points. Frederick's shooting and interior scoring will be key as the season progresses. At 6–3 on the year, MoPo enters a pivotal stretch with a monster matchup looming Thursday against Aberdeen Christian, and Knudson and Frederick will be central to the Tigers' success moving forward.   [player_tooltip player_id='3427143' first='William' last='Jorgensen'] (2027) |6'2 F| & [player_tooltip player_id='3043022' first='Carter' last='Foster'] (2027) |6'4 F| Winner   WHY?   William and Carter have taken on expanded roles for Winner after entering the season with limited varsity experience, stepping up to help fill the void left by Shawn Hammerbeck's graduation. Both juniors bring different strengths to the floor but have been equally impactful. Jorgensen has emerged as a steady interior presence, defending the paint and rebounding well from the five spot, while Foster adds athleticism and soft touch around the basket. Their growth has been key to Winner's early-season success and highlights the strides both have made this year. Winner has a 5-4 record on the season.   <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/01/image_565bc9.png"><img src="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/01/image_565bc9.png" alt="" class="wp-image-3425985" /></a></figure>

The jump from one season to the next—or even from month to month—can say a lot about a basketball player. Improvement doesn't always show up the same way for everyone. Sometimes it's a stat jump, sometimes it's expanded responsibility, and other times it's the little things that help teams win.