The Showcase Recap, Part II — Notable 2026s Still Available

<p>As we continue our coverage of The Showcase in Kansas City, there are several more 2026 prospects who have a lot to offer at the next level, and many of their recruitments remain wide open. As they sort through growing interest and evaluate their options, it's worth highlighting a group of under-the-radar players who proved on Saturday that they can compete with older, more experienced talent from higher levels.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2039558' first='Simon' last='Rowley'] | 6'1" Guard | Washburn Rural (KS)</em></h3>   <p>Rowley's size and quick first step were noticeable on Saturday at The Showcase. He played well off the catch, reading closeouts and understanding driving angles as he attacked. He also got to the rim with explosiveness and finished around the basket with soft touch. Physically, he looked the part and held his own on both ends, using his strength effectively in different situations. </p>   <p>Simon was assertive with the ball in his hands, whether attacking to score or drawing multiple defenders and kicking out. He showed a strong understanding of advantage situations throughout. He also embraced contact, showing the ability to drive through physicality and finish through multiple bodies.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2090492' first='Isaiah' last='Caston'] | 5'11" Guard | Park Hill (MO)</em></h3>   <p>Caston held his own against a plethora of junior college guards, showing he can compete at the next level. His commitment on both ends was evident as he turned ball handlers and worked his way through screens to stay connected defensively. His low center of gravity and versatility to defend different body types also showed up.</p>   <p>Isaiah also handled the ball in the full court and initiated offensive actions. His change of pace and use of his body while probing defenses worked to his advantage, keeping defenders off balance and allowing him to stay in control of the play.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2245740' first='Kael' last='Williams'] | 6'2" Guard | Atchison (KS)</em></h3>   <p>Long and active describes Williams in a nutshell over the weekend. His length and quick twitch allowed him to consistently find himself around the ball, making an impact by keeping it in front and using his long arms to contest the dribble. His ability to contest shots and recover in a variety of situations also stood out, showing his true value on the defensive end.</p>   <p>Kael flashed some perimeter shooting but looked most comfortable slashing and moving around the basket, where he was able to build momentum toward the rim and play with aggression. He also demonstrated strong rebounding ability and instincts, tracking down a number of basketballs outside of his area.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>[player_tooltip player_id='2966437' first='AJ' last='Mason'] | 6'0" Guard | Smithville (MO)</em></h3>   <p>Mason's recruiting continues to heat up as he evaluates his options and looks for the ideal situation. AJ was another primary ball handler and creator, communicating well and picking his spots efficiently throughout play.</p>   <p>Playing bigger than his size, Mason showed he could also operate effectively off the ball at the next level. His understanding of teammates was evident, as he positioned himself to complement others and take advantage of their strengths. After a very productive and influential final year in high school, AJ should continue trending upward at the next level.</p>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><em>Elliott Berry, Jr. | 6'0" Guard | Washington (KS)</em></h3>   <p>Berry, coming off a productive year — particularly offensively at Washington — continued his assertive approach on that end of the floor. With deep-range shooting in his arsenal, EJ also showed he could put the ball on the floor and get by defenders.</p>   <p>Finding creases in the defense, his ability to navigate tight, contested areas highlighted how adept he is at creating or exploiting openings. He's definitely a name to watch, as his offensive skill set should put him in the mix for a number of programs at the next level.</p>

As we continue our coverage of The Showcase in Kansas City, there are several more 2026 prospects who have a lot to offer at the next level, and many of their recruitments remain wide open. As they sort through growing interest and evaluate their options, it's worth highlighting a group of under-the-radar players who proved on Saturday that they can compete with older, more experienced talent from higher levels.