Meet Louisiana's Basketball Gems: The 2028 Rankings Breakdown

The 2028 Rankings have started the conversation about the next wave of Louisiana prospects, as many of these players entered starting roles and earned impactful minutes at the Varsity level. Some of our athletes earned starring roles, while others were complementary; nonetheless, these players are firmly on the radar and on the rise. Take a look at some of the talented players on the rise in the Louisiana 2028 class.    [player_tooltip player_id='2934420' first='Dylan' last='Vaughn'] has earned a reputation as a standout two-way player. After watching him play up in the 17U division this past weekend, you can see the potential in his game. He is a long wing but has post capability, and when he shoots the three-ball, he can knock it down. He prefers to work in the post and rebounds at a high level, complemented by his aggressiveness in protecting the rim. He is a go-getter on the court, and alongside his physical abilities, his skill truly shows. Vaughn could be in for a big summer, and playing with older players could give him an edge throughout the season.     [player_tooltip player_id='2532089' first='Darren' last='Ford'] is the top-ranked player in the state and is nationally recognized as a top recruit. His statistics speak for themselves, with back-to-back seasons averaging over 20 PPG, eclipsing 1,000 points midway through his sophomore season. He led the Ruston Bearcats in scoring and assists while spearheading a run to the State Championship. Physically, he is a gifted athlete, but skill-wise, he is elite in every measurable statistic: shooting, rebounding, defending, and assisting. You name it, and he is ahead of the pack with high percentages to boot. He is built like a middle linebacker with elite athleticism. His ability to dunk through contact is what separates him from others in his class, and today he is still only 15 years old. At 6'3" and 180 pounds, he is a physical intimidator who is unstoppable offensively. The #1 spot is firm with Ford as we head into the Live Period.     [player_tooltip player_id='2623530' first='Nick' last='Shelton'] locked in a solid sophomore season at Calvary, logging considerable Varsity minutes and stepping in to do whatever was required. If they needed a post presence, he stepped in to defend bigger players and rebound. When they needed a slasher, he made moves to get to the rim. When they needed a three-pointer, Nick could deliver. Calvary is losing three "bigs," so Nick will have the opportunity to showcase his early morning work and developing skills. Our scouts remain high on Nick as he continues to develop and deliver.     [player_tooltip player_id='2532109' first='Teriyl' last='Matthews'] played with one of the top teams in the state against one of the toughest schedules, making the most of his opportunities on the court. He remains one of our top prospects because his upside is easy to see. As an underclassman, he stepped in and knocked down shots while limiting errors. He looks comfortable on the court and is not afraid of the moment. He is a shooting guard with point guard skills and is effective both on and off the ball. This summer will be an eye-opener for those who have not seen him play much, as he possesses an elite game and significant upside.     [player_tooltip player_id='2435964' first='Devion' last='Stewart'] stepped into a leading role at Booker T. and delivered. He has grown and looks to be closer to 6'5". He is comfortable in the post and has the size to do damage in the paint. He rebounds and defends at a consistent level but also has the ability to knock down the mid-range shot. The two-sport athlete will be a major part of the Booker T. program moving forward. He has the ability to carry the team, and when that happens, watch out. Any coach looking for a young hybrid post player will enjoy Stewart's game.    There are still more 2028s to explore in the class leading up to the 2027 rankings release. It is AAU Season, it is ranking season and it is separation season. Who locked in and improved? More to follow on PrepHoops.

The 2028 Rankings have started the conversation about the next wave of Louisiana prospects, as many of these players entered starting roles and earned impactful minutes at the Varsity level. Some of our athletes earned starring roles, while others were complementary; nonetheless, these players are firmly on the radar and on the rise. Take a look at some of the talented players on the rise in the Louisiana 2028 class.