18 Ballers to Watch in the Club Season

This year's watchlist features ballers from both North Dakota and South Dakota, representing multiple programs across the region. That variety brings a unique edge—different styles of play, different systems, and a wide range of skill sets all colliding on the same stage. It's a true showcase of the depth of talent coming out of the Dakotas.   Club basketball is where reputations are built—where players rise to the occasion against top competition and prove they belong among the best. It's not just about stats; it's about impact, energy, and the ability to elevate a team when it matters most. This season promises plenty of breakout performances, statement games, and moments that will have everyone talking.   In this feature, we highlight a group of standouts who are poised for big things. Some are already established names, while others are hungry to put themselves on the map. One thing they all have in common? They're ready to compete—and they're ready to shine.   Ballers to Watch    Named to the All-Region 1 Team and both All-State teams, Andrew turned in an outstanding season. A key piece in his team's State Tournament runner-up finish, Ziemer proved himself as one of the top point guards in North Dakota. He backed it up with strong production across the board, averaging 12.2 PPG, 3.4 RPG, and 7.3 APG while shooting an efficient 52.2% from the field. PHD is a big fan of his game—he's an intriguing lead guard with excellent length who plays with pace and control. His ability to change speeds, slash to the rim, create for others with strong court vision, and score at all three levels makes him a constant threat. He also rebounds extremely well for a point guard. On top of his offensive impact, Andrew is a lockdown defender and one of the best on-ball defenders in North Dakota, bringing toughness and intensity on that end. Long guards with skill, feel, and a high IQ are always in demand, and he checks all the boxes.     First thing that stands out with Ahmi is his size and length. He didn't see a ton of varsity minutes for the State Champion Patriots, but the tools are there for him to make a name for himself in a hurry. He's expected to step into a much bigger role next winter, but in the meantime, PHD is eager to see him break out on the club circuit with [program_tooltip program_id='2075741' first='ND' last='Phenom']. Spears is an intriguing prospect—he's a mobile defender who runs the floor effortlessly, protects the rim, and rebounds at a high level. Offensively, he can space the floor and knock down the three, giving him valuable versatility. Length and shooting always turn heads, and Ahmi brings both, along with strong switchability in ball-screen defense—another trait college coaches covet. Is he ready to blow up? PHD believes he is.     [player_tooltip player_id='2052770' first='Beau' last='Thorpe'] was an absolute force this winter — a true “Tornado” on the court. Earning All-State, All-Region, and All-District honors, he didn't just stand out — he dominated, breaking records and putting together a breakout high school season that has people paying attention. Thorpe averaged an impressive 25.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, finishing with 591 total points on the season. His scoring ability was on full display in a 39-point explosion, showing just how dangerous he can be when he gets going. A skilled scorer, sharp-shooter, and capable playmaker, Thorpe has a smooth style that makes the game look effortless. As he heads into club season, he's poised to catch the eyes of college coaches. The big question will be how he adjusts to bigger, more physical athletes this spring/summer — but one thing is certain: he can flat-out shoot, and he's more than capable of lighting it up.     [player_tooltip player_id='2723975' first='Blake' last='Lundin'] battled through some injury time this season, but he's back and ready to go. He played a key role in helping the Titans reach the State Tournament, showing his value on both ends of the floor. Lundin's length is his calling card and immediately stands out to scouts. It allows him to protect the rim, control the glass, and impact the game in ways that don't always show up in the box score. He does the little things well and plays with efficiency. Offensively, he brings a solid scoring touch with a strong inside presence, while also having the ability to step out and knock down jumpers.     All-State, First Team All-State, undefeated season, and a State Championship — Meebs checked every box. He averaged 17.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, leading his team in every way that matters. A ball-dominant guard who simply knows how to win, Meebs controls the tempo and dictates the game. He has a deep bag offensively — elite footwork, a smooth, reliable jumper, and the ability to finish fearlessly at the rim. As a passer, he's just as dangerous, throwing perfect alley-oops and consistently delivering dimes to teammates. Defensively, he brings toughness and a disruptive presence. Widely regarded as the top point guard in South Dakota, Meebs has the ability to elevate his stock even further this summer. Simply put, he's a difference-maker every time he steps in the gym.     Davis is a player to watch this club season following an impressive high school campaign. An All-Region Class A selection, he played a key role in helping lead the Skyhawks to the State Tournament and showed he can perform on a big stage. A real-deal shooter, Davis has the ability to stretch the floor and score in bunches. What's made him even more dangerous is the development of his slashing ability, giving him a more complete offensive game and allowing him to attack defenses in multiple ways. Running with [program_tooltip program_id='2075741' first='ND' last='Phenom'] 2027 Sanchez this club season, Davis will have a great opportunity to showcase his offensive skill set against tough competition. Davis has the talent, scoring ability, and overall feel for the game to be a college-level player — and this club season could be a big step in that direction.     [player_tooltip player_id='2958986' first='Easton' last='Riley'] is set to run with SSA SD Black this club season, joining a group that looks complete from top to bottom. Surrounded by high-level talent, Riley fits in as a key piece thanks to his size, length, and interior presence. He brings value in all the areas you want from a big — protecting the paint, rebounding, and finishing around the rim. One of the most impressive parts of his game is his work on the offensive glass, where he consistently creates extra possessions and second-chance opportunities. Riley also stands out for his unselfishness. He's not a black hole offensively and plays within the flow, something his teammates will appreciate on a loaded roster. With more exposure this club season — especially alongside other next-level players — he's in a great position to draw attention from college coaches. You can't teach his size, and with that comes real upside. Riley is an intriguing prospect whose best basketball is still ahead of him.     A next-level athlete, no doubt about it. Averaging 21 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3.4 steals per game, he shot an efficient 52% from the field, including 68% on two-pointers, 32% from three, and 74% from the free-throw line. Big, rangy, and explosive, he's a true three-level scoring guard and one of the top talents in Class B. An All-Region and All-District selection, he stands out with his ability to create his own shot, tight handle, and smooth, effective crossover. He finishes well at the rim and has proven he can knock down shots from deep. The question will be how quickly he adjusts from Class B competition to the top pools in club basketball. But with his athleticism, skill set, and overall upside, Eli has all the tools to become a scholarship-level player.     Eric put together a strong sophomore season, averaging 13.6 PPG (45% FG), 6.8 RPG, and 2.0 APG, along with 15 EFF per game. He also knocked down 27 threes at a 33% clip, showing his ability to stretch the floor. There's real breakout potential here. Van Berkom brings a lot to the table—he's long, skilled, and plays with excellent timing and instincts. He impacts the game on both ends as a shot blocker, while also showing touch as a perimeter shooter. Simply put, he's a versatile piece who can do a little bit of everything. College coaches should have him on their radar. Once you get a look at Van Berkom in action, it's easy to see why his game stands out.     Named to the All-Region 1 Team, Hayden put together a high quality season highlighted by big performances and consistent production. At 6'6", he brings impressive length, moves well, and finishes above the rim, while also showing the ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc. He has clear upside on the defensive end and consistently contributes on the glass. PHD is excited to see Enger running with NDP this spring/summer.     There's a lot to like about Schindler's game. He clearly passes the eye test with a high level of skill, and the way he carries himself on the court stands out. He plays bigger than his listed height and brings a confident, composed presence every time he steps on the floor. James put together a standout season, averaging 20.9 points per game on 46% shooting, along with 4.2 rebounds and 3.4 assists. He also posted a 19 efficiency rating per game, knocked down 55 threes at a 35% clip, and earned All-EDC honors. Heading into the club season, look for him to be one of the top guards coming out of the Dakotas. He's definitely a player to watch, and one that college coaches will want to take a long, hard look at.     He put together an outstanding season, averaging 23.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game while shooting an efficient 62% from the field. A true walking double-double, his production and consistency were hard to ignore. He earned 1st Team All-State honors and led his team to the State A Tournament for the first time in decades—an impressive accomplishment that highlights his impact. Nelson has also been playing up a level in club basketball over the past few seasons, so it will be exciting to see how he performs at the 17U level this year. Expectations are high, and he looks poised for a strong showing.     The freshman phenom will be running with D1 Minnesota this club season, and he's poised to make a name for himself in a big way. Woods brings game-changing length and elite athleticism—tools that immediately stand out on the floor. What makes him even more intriguing is his approach to the game. He plays with a high basketball IQ, carries himself like a true student of the game, and comes from noteworthy bloodlines that only add to his upside. Put it all together, and it's easy to see why he already looks like a future Division I prospect. PHD is planning to catch him live at a tournament or two this season, and expectations are high. This is a name you'll want to remember—get familiar with [player_tooltip player_id='2480721' first='Noah' last='Woods'].     Oak turned in a standout season, averaging 18.9 points per game on 49% shooting, along with 8.1 rebounds and 3.2 assists. He posted an impressive 21 efficiency rating per game and knocked down 47 threes at a strong 43% clip. His performance earned him both All-WDA honors and All-State recognition from the coaches. Trueblood oozes potential. With his impressive length and advanced offensive skill set, he's a matchup problem who can impact the game in a variety of ways. He has the tools and production to be one of the most talked-about players on the Prep Hoops Circuit this spring and summer.     He put up very strong numbers this season while playing on a stacked team, and his production could take another leap next year with an expanded role. He averaged 14.0 points per game on 51% shooting, along with 7.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists, posting an impressive 20 efficiency rating per game. He also knocked down 39 threes at a 39% clip and earned a spot on the prestigious All-EDC Team. A long 6'6" SF with an excellent feel for the game, he plays with a team-first mindset—sharing the ball, helpside D, staying unselfish, and making smart, creative decisions. Offensively, he's versatile and effective, with the ability to stretch the floor and finish above the rim with dunks and alley-oops. His length and wingspan only add to his upside on both ends. Expect him to thrive this spring and summer in a great program.     Patrick put together a strong season, averaging 13.0 points per game on an efficient 52% shooting, along with 3.7 rebounds and 3.8 assists. He also posted a 15 efficiency rating per game and knocked down 18 threes at a 35% clip. An athletic, mobile left-hander, Patrick stands out with his speed and quickness—especially his explosive first step. He's an elusive slasher who can break down defenders and finish at the rim, even through contact. At 6'2" with eye-catching agility, there's a lot to like about his long-term potential. We saw noticeable improvement in his game throughout the winter, and PHD expects that momentum to carry into the club season.     PHD had the chance to catch a few of Glenn's games this winter, and he consistently stood out. He brings noteworthy length and stays active on both ends of the floor, showing the ability to score at multiple levels. Glenn has a knack for rising to the occasion, paired with athleticism, smooth movement, and a versatile offensive game that makes him a tough matchup. There's also clear upside on the defensive end, which adds to his overall value. This club season, Glenn is running with the SSA SD 17U White squad, a group that will be featured at multiple Prep Hoops events. We're excited to see how he continues to develop against strong competition.     Tommy put together an impressive season, averaging 19.1 points per game (40% FG), 8.4 rebounds, and 2.2 assists, along with an 18 efficiency rating per game. He also knocked down 50 threes at a 32% clip and earned All-EDC honors for his performance. Now heading to Sanford, it will be interesting to see how he fits into Coach Moormann's system. Baumgartner was the go-to option at Shanley, so the next step in his development will be adjusting to a more loaded roster and finding his role within a deeper group. What stands out right away is his combination of length, athleticism, and scoring ability—tools that are sure to grab the attention of college scouts. There's a lot to like in a 6'5" playmaking wing with his versatility.    <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/08/NDSD.jpg"><img src="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/08/NDSD.jpg?w=865" alt="" class="wp-image-2950876" /></a></figure>

This year's watchlist features ballers from both North Dakota and South Dakota, representing multiple programs across the region. That variety brings a unique edge—different styles of play, different systems, and a wide range of skill sets all colliding on the same stage. It's a true showcase of the depth of talent coming out of the Dakotas.