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<p>Virginia continues to produce high-level basketball talent across every class, and the 2027 group is no exception. Several names have already earned attention on the recruiting trail. Meanwhile, a number of players are quietly developing. Their stock could rise significantly over the next year. Here are some under-the-radar 2027 prospects in Virginia. College coaches should keep an eye on them. Recruiting services should watch as the spring and summer circuits begin.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Tré Smith may be a new name to many in recruiting circles, but that could change quickly this summer. The 6'6 guard brings a combination of length, athleticism, and elite shooting ability that immediately stands out. Smith is a true scoring threat. He can light it up from beyond the arc. He gets to his spots in the mid-range. He attacks the rim when defenders close out.</p>
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<p>What separates Smith is his motor and long-term upside. He plays hard on both ends and has the physical tools that project well to the next level. Smith is versatile in scoring. His ability to stretch the floor makes him the type of player college coaches desire in a wing. Expect his name to gain traction this summer as he suits up with [program_tooltip program_id='3424568' first='Team' last='Loaded Gold'].</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='2815291' first='Justin' last='Huang'] has been a key piece for a talented Blue Ridge squad. He continues to demonstrate why he's a guard worth tracking in the 2027 class. Huang plays with excellent pace and poise, consistently making smart decisions with the ball in his hands. He's particularly effective attacking downhill, using changes of speed and direction to break down defenders and get into the paint.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Huang is also a very strong ball handler and facilitator, doing a great job putting teammates in positions to succeed. One of the most impressive parts of his game, however, is on the defensive end. He's an aggressive on-ball defender who competes on every possession and handles ball screen coverage well. After playing with Local Legends last year, Huang will be another guard to watch this spring and summer closely.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='2422471' first='Derrius' last='Jones'] is a versatile and physical athlete who brings toughness and production to the floor. At 6'6, Jones uses his strength well when attacking the rim and does a great job finishing through contact. His physical style of play and college-ready frame make him an intriguing prospect moving forward.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Jones has been a major contributor and leader for a strong Blue Ridge team that enjoyed a successful season. He impacts the game in multiple ways. He excels particularly as a rebounder and defender. His length and strength allow him to control the glass and guard multiple positions. With continued offensive development, Jones could draw significant attention from college programs. Like Huang, he played with Local Legends last summer.</p>
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<p>[player_tooltip player_id='2898053' first='Shane' last='McAfee'] is one of the more intriguing big men in Virginia's 2027 class. The St. Michael the Archangel standout brings size, length, and athleticism. These qualities make him a valuable presence on both ends of the floor.</p>
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<p>Offensively, McAfee is very effective around the basket. He finishes strong above and around the rim. He also serves as a reliable screen-and-roll option. He also shows flashes of a developing jumper, adding another dimension to his offensive game. Defensively, McAfee provides rim protection and rebounding, while consistently communicating and helping organize his team.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">What stands out most about McAfee is his willingness to do the little things that help teams win. He sets screens and hustles for extra possessions. He also makes winning plays even when the ball isn't in his hands.</p>
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<p>As the spring and summer AAU season approaches, these players will have opportunities to compete against top-level competition. They will continue developing their games. If they build on what they've shown so far, these names will gain traction on the recruiting trail. Don't be surprised if this happens in the near future.</p>
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<p>The Virginia 2027 class is deeper than many realize — and these under-the-radar prospects are a big reason why.</p>
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<p></p>
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Virginia continues to produce high-level basketball talent across every class, and the 2027 group is no exception. Several names have already earned attention on the recruiting trail. Meanwhile, a number of players are quietly developing. Their stock could rise significantly over the next year. Here are some under-the-radar 2027 prospects in Virginia. College coaches should keep an eye on them. Recruiting services should watch as the spring and summer circuits begin.
HEIGHT
6'6"
POS
SG
CLASS
2027
School:
Liberty Christian Academy
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HEIGHT
6'3"
POS
CG
CLASS
2027
State:
Virginia
School:
Blue Ridge
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HEIGHT
6'6"
POS
SF
CLASS
2027
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HEIGHT
6'8"
POS
C
CLASS
2027
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