Middle of the Pack Guards 2028 Rankings Updates

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Some guards don't jump off the page yet, but they're building the kind of foundation that matters long‑term. Get a look at a few who are adding layers to their game and positioning themselves for a real climb as the class of 2028 continues to take shape. Keep us updated on ALL prospects over on “X“ and “Instagram,” just tag @PrepHoops_AR &amp; @VortexSportsArkansas.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2948754' first='Darnell' last='Manuel Jr'] - Manuel continues to sit firmly in the middle tier, showing steady improvement as a tough, downhill guard who competes on both ends. His ability to pressure the ball and create advantages is trending upward, and as his perimeter consistency tightens, he becomes a real candidate to climb.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>KJ Addison - Addison brings pace and a natural feel for making plays in space. He's active off the ball and shows flashes as a secondary creator. With continued growth in the weight room as well as decision‑making and shot selection, he has the tools to rise out of the middle group.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2851129' first='Charles' last='Mooney'] - Mooney is a rugged yet composed guard who plays with force and toughness. His mid‑range touch and ability to operate in ball screens give him a reliable identity. Adding more finesse, ball-handling under pressure, and 3pt shooting will determine how quickly he moves up.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2750475' first='Donovan' last='Mitchell'] - Mitchell is a competitive, quick guard who impacts games with energy and willingness to do the little things. His offensive game is expanding, and his defense has improved. As he grows into his confidence and skillset, he becomes a stock‑watch prospect.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='3073480' first='Trey' last='Simmons'] - Simmons shows flashes as a shot‑maker and rhythm scorer who can heat up quickly. He's learning how to impact possessions beyond scoring, and when he's locked in, he looks like a riser. Consistency in defending game‑to‑game is the next step.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2969632' first='Ford' last='Mills'] - Mills brings size, feel, and a steady approach that fits well in a middle‑tier evaluation. He makes the right reads, plays unselfishly, and shows early signs of being a reliable connector‑type guard. As he grows from a defensive standpoint and adds more wiggle with the ball, his ceiling becomes clearer.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2406088' first='Jacari' last='Cherry'] - Cherry is an athletic guard who thrives in transition and attacking gaps. His activity and ability to pressure defenses stand out. Continued development as a shooter and half‑court creator will help him climb the list.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2799337' first='Jathan' last='Ashcraft'] - Ashcraft is a confident, offensively skilled guard with a strong mentality. He's comfortable creating his own shot and shows flashes of shot‑making versatility. Hitting the weights heavily will be key as he is starting to grow in height. Improving efficiency and decision‑making will be key to unlocking his long‑term trajectory.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->