Growing Mid‑Level 2028 Rankings Prospects

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This article covers 7 players trending upward, understanding their identity, and proving they belong in long‑term conversations as they sharpen strengths. The foundation is there, and the next step is stacking repeatable impact. Keep us updated on ALL prospects over on “X“ and “Instagram,” just tag @PrepHoops_AR &amp; @VortexSportsArkansas.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2635769' first='Tarion' last='Vaughn'] - Quick first step and natural driving instincts give him value as an attacking guard. Shows flashes of on‑time reads and confident scoring bursts, but consistency in decision‑making and finishing through tough defense will determine how quickly he climbs. When he strings together composed possessions, he looks ready for bigger responsibility.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2948486' first='Kasyn' last='Brown'] - A forward/wing still carving out his identity. Brown's length, effort, and willingness to mix it up allow him to impact multiple spots, but his game needs steadier touch and more scoring options. The tools are there, but tightening his skillset will unlock the next jump.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2851129' first='Charles' last='Mooney'] - High‑motor competitor with athletic, strong body type. Mooney's toughness shows in how he defends, rebounds, and attacks defenders. The next step is polishing his handle and shot selection, so his physical gifts translate into repeatable production. When he's locked in, he changes the tempo of a game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2849985' first='Cassidy' last='Jones'] - Jones brings versatility with the ability to slide between matchups, defend space, and provide connective offense. Flashes of confident shooting appear, but he needs more assertive stretches with the ball and greater consistency to maximize his impact. A high‑utility piece once the motor stays steady.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='3139537' first='Kam' last='Pratt'] - Speed is his separator. Pratt pushes pace, creates early advantages, and shows glimpses of strong playmaking. His growth hinges on balancing tempo with control and becoming a more reliable defender. When he's dictating rhythm, he elevates everyone around him.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2879790' first='Gavin' last='Elmore'] - Strong interior presence with improving footwork and timing. Elmore competes on the glass and shows flashes of touch around the rim. Continued development in mobility, defensive reads, and conditioning will determine how far his role expands. Trending upward with steady reps.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2751789' first='Max' last='McCutchen'] - Confident perimeter shooter who spaces the floor and hunts clean looks. McCutchen's value spikes when he pairs his shooting gravity with better creation and defensive consistency. If he becomes more physical on drives while finding others, he turns into a real problem for defenses.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->