Which Prospects Are Starting 2026 On A Strong Note?

The year 2026 has begun on a promising note, with numerous stock risers showing potential for significant growth. In this article, I will highlight five stock risers that have demonstrated strong performances in the early part of the year, making them promising prospects for the future.    Jordan Ugochukwu is a key player on Clements High School's defensive line, particularly in the paint. His performance against Hightower High School showcased his skills. At the moment he leads his district in blocks per game, averaging just above 3 blocks per game. This impressive stat is a result of his great timing and anticipation, allowing him to anticipate opponents movements before they reach the paint. Jordan's 6'7 frame further enhances his defensive capabilities. As a current sophomore, he has the potential to make significant strides in his development and become an even more formidable player in the future.     [player_tooltip player_id='2555774' first='Landon' last='Shotlow'] has been making a high difference for Hightower High School this season, primarily taking on a huge role in the interior. Offensively, Landon is a strong play finisher for Hightower, primarily on the right side of the basket. In his attempts at the basket, he made a good percentage of his finishes against Clements High School. On both ends, he is a strong rebounder, securing them despite being up against bigger opponents in the paint. At the end of the game, Landon resulted with 23 points and has picked up an offer since I last saw him play to start the year!     [player_tooltip player_id='2557514' first='Cash' last='Davis'] was a pivotal player in Foster High School's victory over Elsik High School. Throughout the game, he made significant contributions on both ends of the court. He finished with a team high scoring 14 points, but his defensive prowess was equally impressive. He displayed solid defense in transition and on the ball. Recently, Cash was honored as the Houston Chronicle Athlete of the Week for his contributions to Foster High School's success. His consistent improvement and performance have rightfully earned him this recognition.     CJ Williams has been one of my favorite guards to watch play since his freshman year at Bellaire High School. Ever since the first time I watched him play, I knew he would be a special player and a D1 prospect. As of 2026, CJ has proven me right, picking up an offer from Saint Louis University recently and making significant improvements since I first watched him. Currently at Stratford High School, CJ is carrying a huge offensive load with multiple high-scoring games along with getting teammates involved, orchestrating the offense as the starting guard. Against Cy Falls High School, CJ scored 20 of the team's 39 total points in a loss. Despite the loss, CJ's impact was very evident.     My first encounter with [player_tooltip player_id='2345556' first='Daniel' last='Patton'] was during the GASO Houston Fall Tour, where his high-energy play immediately caught my attention. As a highly active interior presence, Daniel relentlessly pursues the ball after it leaves the rim. His infectious passion for the game motivates his teammates positively, boosting the team's morale. Offensively, he effectively backs down his opponents in the post, creating clear scoring opportunities at the basket. Additionally, he demonstrates his mid-range shooting prowess by making short-range jumpers. Notably, during the game against Stratford High School, Daniel's 18 points were instrumental in securing a victory for Cypress Falls High School. Daniel has recently picked up offers from SFA and Louisiana Tech this month!

The year 2026 has begun on a promising note, with numerous stock risers showing potential for significant growth. In this article, I will highlight five stock risers that have demonstrated strong performances in the early part of the year, making them promising prospects for the future.