Austin Sophomore Guards Poised for Playoff Impact

The Class of 2028 is beginning to carve out a clear identity in the [player_tooltip player_id='2854586' first='Austin' last=''] area. While district play is still unfolding, several sophomore guards have already established themselves as meaningful contributors on teams trending toward postseason runs. These are not just young players logging minutes; they are guards impacting winning at a high level, and their roles figure to expand as the stakes rise in playoff basketball. Below are a handful of [player_tooltip player_id='2854586' first='Austin' last='']-area sophomores worth tracking closely as postseason play approaches.    Varma has taken a noticeable step forward in his overall game this season. Long regarded as one of the premier perimeter shooters in the city, his ability to stretch the floor remains elite—but it's the growth in the rest of his offensive package that has elevated his impact. His first step and attack dribble are rock solid, allowing him to get downhill and finish through contact. Add in a confident mid-range pull-up, and defenders are forced to pick their poison. When Varma gets into a rhythm, he can heat up quickly from beyond the arc. What stands out most is his willingness to do whatever the game requires. He defends his position, rebounds his area, and consistently handles the in-between plays that don't show up in the box score. With St. Michael's positioned for a potential deep playoff run, Varma is set to play a key role in how far they go.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />     Hawthorne brings a well-rounded, versatile skill set to an LBJ program known for postseason success. He has a legitimate range from the three-point line, pairs it with strong off-the-dribble moves, and finishes plays with confidence around the rim. His activity on the glass stands out for a guard, frequently creating second- and third-chance opportunities for the Jaguars. Defensively, his length allows him to guard multiple positions, whether pressuring smaller guards or challenging bigger wings. LBJ expects to be playing meaningful games late into the season, and Hawthorne's ability to impact the game in multiple areas should only increase as the competition stiffens. His stock continues to rise alongside team success.     Mathis is an energy guard who plays hard from tip to buzzer. He combines athleticism with genuine ball skills and has been a major contributor to Lake Travis' undefeated district run to this point. Fearless attacking the rim, Mathis can finish with either hand and thrives in traffic. He complements that with a reliable perimeter shot and a functional handle that keeps defenders off balance. Just as important, he has bought fully into the team concept, defending, making the extra pass, and embracing his role within the system. With district play winding down, Mathis looks more than ready for the heightened intensity of playoff basketball.     On a Round Rock roster loaded with experienced seniors, Lipnisky has carved out a meaningful role through speed, poise, and feel. He is extremely quick off the bounce, allowing him to access scoring spots at all three levels. Beyond scoring, Lipnisky consistently sets up teammates with accurate passing in both the open floor and half-court settings. His willingness to defend has also been a key factor in Round Rock winning tight games in a challenging district. As the Dragons enter postseason play, Lipnisky has the makeup of a guard capable of delivering timely moments when they're needed most.     Samuel is a steady, reliable presence on a guard-heavy Hendrickson squad. He shoots it well from the perimeter and mid-range, finishes effectively at the rim, and brings a calm approach on both ends of the floor. Defensively, he holds his own in individual matchups and within team concepts. Offensively, he's comfortable pushing the pace and helping initiate transition opportunities. Hendrickson's four-guard system works because of collective buy-in, and Samuel embodies that mentality. With the Hawks on pace to win the district outright, expect Samuel to make his mark once playoff play begins.

The Class of 2028 is beginning to carve out a clear identity in the Austin Austin 6'2" | CG Covenant Classical | 2027 TX area. While district play is still unfolding, several sophomore guards have already established themselves as meaningful contributors on teams trending toward postseason runs. These are not just young players logging minutes; they are guards impacting winning at a high level, and their roles figure to expand as the stakes rise in playoff basketball. Below are a handful of Austin Austin 6'2" | CG Covenant Classical | 2027 TX -area sophomores worth tracking closely as postseason play approaches.