2029 Ranking Drop: Players Who Made Major Varsity Contributions

The Class of 2029 rankings drop this week, and these freshmen are already making their mark. Playing big varsity minutes and producing against older competition, these young standouts showed they belong early. From scoring and playmaking to toughness and defense, their impact this season has put them firmly on the radar moving forward.    Pecic established himself early as one of the more productive freshman guards in Colorado basketball. Leading Palmer in scoring at 11.9 points per game while shooting 41% from three showed both confidence and efficiency against varsity competition. He operates comfortably as a true three level scorer, capable of creating separation off the bounce, knocking down perimeter shots and finishing in space. His offensive polish and pace stand out for a young guard, and the 29 point performance during the season was another indicator of his upside. Since the high school season ended, Pecic has continued elevating his game throughout the summer. He's showing improved defensive engagement, better physicality and a more complete overall approach offensively. Given his production as a freshman contributor, his long term ranking trajectory continues trending upward     Oberg made a major impact as a freshman at Montrose, leading the team in scoring with 10.9 points while adding 6.5 rebounds per game. He posted four double doubles on the season and showed just how high his ceiling is with a 25 point breakout performance. What stands out most is his physicality and comfort operating in the post. He plays strong through contact, works efficiently with his back to the basket and continues to create tough finishes around the rim. As the summer progresses his mid range game is taking another step forward, making him even tougher to defend. Oberg is developing into a versatile scoring threat and a name that continues to trend upward heading into the future     Thacker put together a strong season for Mullen showcasing his ability as a true three level scorer, averaging 8.2 points while consistently creating offense in a variety of ways. He flashed his upside with a season high 21 point performance and showed the confidence to take over stretches offensively. His quick release makes him dangerous from the perimeter, especially when defenders give him even a small window to shoot. He also does a great job navigating through traffic, staying under control and getting to his spots in the mid range and at the rim. As he continues to grow physically and add consistency, Thacker's scoring package makes him a player that defenders have to stay locked in on every possession     Marshall first caught attention last summer, but this past season he truly made the most of his opportunity at Denver East. Thrust into a bigger role as a freshman because of his size and team injuries, he responded with 7.3 points and 5.3 rebounds per game while showing steady growth throughout the year. His best performance came in a dominant 21 point, 10 rebound double double that highlighted the impact he can have on both ends. Marshall is effective inside, plays through contact and uses his physicality well when getting downhill to the basket. What makes him even more intriguing is the ability to step out and knock down the three. He also positions himself well on the glass and continues to show the tools of a versatile forward with plenty of upside moving forward     Soto put together one of the more impressive all around freshman seasons at Woodland Park, impacting the game in nearly every category. He led the team in assists while averaging 11.8 points and shot an outstanding 47% from the floor. Defensively he was everywhere, posting an eye popping 4.4 steals per game thanks to his quickness, anticipation and nonstop activity. Soto sees the floor exceptionally well on both ends and consistently creates opportunities through his energy and instincts. He also proved capable of taking over offensively with a season high 26 points, while two separate 11 steal performances showed just how disruptive he can be defensively. His feel for the game and ability to affect winning make him one of the more intriguing young guards to watch moving forward

The Class of 2029 rankings drop this week, and these freshmen are already making their mark. Playing big varsity minutes and producing against older competition, these young standouts showed they belong early. From scoring and playmaking to toughness and defense, their impact this season has put them firmly on the radar moving forward.