Northwest Arkansas’ 2028s on the Rankings Rise

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This is a handful of the rising core in NWA, the players trending upward and proving they're ready for bigger roles. Some of these guys are pushing for varsity minutes. Others are building off good sophomore seasons and summer runs, but all of them have shown enough development to earn a spot on the radar. 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='2921215' first='Rylan' last='Ball'] - Ball brings energy every possession. His athleticism and hustle allow him to impact games even when he's not scoring through defending, rebounding, and flying around in transition. As his handle and decision-making continue to tighten, he becomes more of a threat.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2824618' first='Demarcus' last='Jackson'] - Jackson's physical profile jumps off the floor. Long, athletic, and improving quickly, he's showing growth as both a slasher and defender. His two‑way flashes are becoming more consistent, and coupled with his frame, give him long‑term upside.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2428103' first='Parker' last='Thomas'] - Thomas' football background shows up big time on the court. His strength, toughness, and contact balance are apparent. He competes in the paint, rebounds well, and finishes through physical play. As his footwork and touch continue to develop, he becomes a more dependable interior piece.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2460604' first='Chandler' last='Cooper'] - Cooper spaces the floor with confidence and patience. His shooting mechanics are clean, and he moves well off the ball to free himself for catch‑and‑shoot looks. When he's dialed in, knocking down shots, he changes the level of the offense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2382041' first='Jaryus' last='Birdsong'] - Birdsong brings activity and pace. He can score it off the bounce, create for teammates, and keep pressure on defenses. His speed and motor as a guard make him a valuable piece in multiple lineups for his squad.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2825995' first='Jackson' last='Pritchett'] - Pritchett understands the game. He's a steady passer, sees the floor well, and makes smart decisions as a lead guard. His IQ allows him to control tempo and elevate teammates. He also attacks well in transition, getting paint touches.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2948754' first='Darnell' last='Manuel Jr'] - Manuel plays with purpose. He defends, competes, and moves the ball unselfishly. His two‑way impact shows up in transition, on‑ball defense, and connective playmaking. A standout guard who helps teams win possessions on both ends.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Honorable Mentions:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2382045' first='Kailan' last='Fisher']</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Connor Freitheim</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2822597' first='Aiden' last='Boreani']</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->