The 2027 Frontline: Wings Who Change Games

From inside‑out scorers to long, mobile defenders to high‑IQ shooters, this group gives the class real depth and real ceiling. If the guards set the pace, the wings and forwards are the ones who tilt the game in their favor. Keep us updated on ALL prospects over on “X“ and “Instagram,” just tag @PrepHoops_AR & @VortexSportsArkansas.   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='2223809' first='Jamal' last='Holden'] – Conway</h3>   #1 Overall • Class of 2027 <a href="https://x.com/rimuhbuser">https://x.com/rimuhbuser</a>   [player_tooltip player_id='2223809' first='Jamal' last='Holden'] is the prototype modern wing. A 6'7 inside‑out scorer with a well‑rounded game, true small‑forward upside, and the versatility to impact every layer of the floor. He's the kind of prospect who immediately stands out because of how fluid he is at his size. Holden can handle it, shoot it, post smaller defenders, and create mismatches all over the court. Conway uses him everywhere: as a scorer, a connector, a rebounder, and a defensive presence who covers ground with ease.   What makes Jamal special is how naturally he blends skill with feel. He's comfortable initiating offense, attacking closeouts, and making reads on the move. His jumper continues to tighten, his mid‑range touch is reliable too, and he finishes with confidence around and above the rim. Defensively, he has the tools to guard multiple positions: length, mobility, and instincts that project extremely well long‑term.   Holden's combination of size, versatility, and current skill set, coupled with the current upward trajectory, gives him one of the highest ceilings in the entire state. He's the definition of a modern SF prospect and the clear #1 overall player in Arkansas' 2027 class.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='2300101' first='DeMarion' last='Lee'] – Bentonville</h3>   #2 Overall • #1 Shooting Guard (2027) RECENT UPDATE: <a href="https://x.com/Bville_Hoops1/status/2014021211747909945?s=20">https://x.com/Bville_Hoops1/status/2014021211747909945?s=20</a>   Mar Lee is one of the most polished, paced, and complete guards in Arkansas' 2027 class. He's an all‑around, three‑level scorer who plays the game with a controlled rhythm. Bentonville leans on him as both a stabilizer and a go‑to bucket, and he delivers with a maturity that stands out. He picks his spots, manipulates defenders with pace changes, and scores efficiently at every level.   Lee's footwork, balance, and shot creation give him a natural advantage as a scorer. He's comfortable pulling up, getting to his floater, or looking to finish above the rim. When defenders crowd him, he gets downhill, and when they sag, he shoots over the top or finds teammates with precision. His ability to slide between on‑ball and off‑ball roles makes him a true prospect with long‑term value.   Defensively, he's disciplined and competitive. He uses length to contest, stays in front, and understands team concepts at a high level. As he continues to grow physically, his two‑way ceiling becomes even more intriguing.   Lee brings poise, mature IQ, and scoring versatility, the exact traits that make him the #1 shooting guard and a top‑tier prospect in the 2027 class.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='2393218' first='JJ' last='Wise'] - Sylvan Hills</h3>   #3 Overall • #1 Combo Guard (2027) RECENT UPDATE: <a href="https://x.com/JJWise27/status/2008925098028487115?s=20">https://x.com/JJWise27/status/2008925098028487115?s=20</a>   [player_tooltip player_id='2393218' first='JJ' last='Wise'] is a smart wing who brings a productive and expanding game to the 2027 class. He's a natural shooter and a high‑motor player who can rebound from the guard spot, two traits that immediately translate and make him valuable in any lineup.   His shooting touch is clean and repeatable, whether he's spotting up, relocating, or stepping into pull-up rhythm jumpers. What's really elevating his stock is how quickly he's growing as a playmaker and defender. Wise is becoming more comfortable putting the ball on the floor, making reads, and creating advantages off straight‑line drives. Defensively, he's taking pride in guarding the ball, using his frame to absorb contact, and showing improved leadership in understanding and applying team concepts.   The combination of shooting, toughness, rebounding, and developing perimeter skills gives Wise real upside as a versatile CG/SG who can fit multiple roles. His trajectory is pointing up, and his current recruiting trail is red hot already.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='2382014' first='Lleyton' last='Weaver'] - Jonesboro</h3>   #8 Overall • #2 Shooting Guard (2027) RECENT UPDATE: <a href="https://x.com/jb_hurricanebb/status/2000399513392148949?s=20">https://x.com/jb_hurricanebb/status/2000399513392148949?s=20</a>   [player_tooltip player_id='2382014' first='Lleyton' last='Weaver'] is one of the most efficient and consistent three‑level scorers in Arkansas' 2027 class. A smooth, poised guard who wastes no movement and plays with a sharp, instinctive feel on both ends. His scoring profile is built on efficiency: clean mechanics, smart shot selection, and the ability to get to his spots without forcing the issue. Whether it's a catch‑and‑shoot three, a controlled pull‑up from a pitch back or DHO, or a crafty finish in the lane, Weaver delivers points with maturity beyond his age.   What's elevating his stock even more is how quickly he's growing into lead‑guard responsibilities. Weaver is becoming more comfortable initiating offense, reading ball screens, and making the right play when defenses collapse. His IQ shows up everywhere, timing, spacing, decision‑making, and the ability to process the game at a high level. Defensively, he's locked in and improving fast. Weaver anticipates well, rotates on time, and uses his length to contest without fouling. His two‑way awareness gives him real value as a guard who can score efficiently and make winning plays.   Weaver's blend of efficiency, IQ, and expanding playmaking makes him one of the most complete and upward‑trending guards in the 2027 class, hence his #2 SG status.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1893319' first='Vatan' last='Paydak'] - Pulaski Academy</h3>   #10 Overall • #3 Shooting Guard (2027) RECENT UPDATE: <a href="https://x.com/vatanpaydak/status/2008973344146960704?s=20">https://x.com/vatanpaydak/status/2008973344146960704?s=20</a>   Vatan brings a new‑age style built on skill, fundamentals, and a high‑level understanding of the game. At his size, he plays with a fluid inside‑out approach that makes him one of the most intriguing wings in the class. Paydak is comfortable handling the ball, making reads, spacing the floor, and attacking closeouts with balance and control.   What separates him is how naturally he processes the game. He sees actions early, moves the ball with purpose, and plays with a calmness that keeps possessions steady. His footwork, shooting touch, and ability to finish through contact continue to grow, and his endurance allows him to impact both ends for long stretches.   Defensively, he uses length and anticipation to guard multiple spots. As he adds strength and sharpens his physical tools, his versatility becomes even more valuable.   Paydak's blend of skill, intelligence, and endurance gives him a modern wing profile with real long‑term upside. His well-rounded impact and current rise leave room for him to quickly rise in the rankings.

From inside‑out scorers to long, mobile defenders to high‑IQ shooters, this group gives the class real depth and real ceiling. If the guards set the pace, the wings and forwards are the ones who tilt the game in their favor. Keep us updated on ALL prospects over on “X“ and “Instagram,” just tag @PrepHoops_AR & @VortexSportsArkansas.