Stock‑Risers in the ’28 Class: Eight Prospects Gaining Traction

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This group isn't the loudest or most publicized yet, but their summer growth, consistency, and competitive edges are starting to demand attention. Each of these eight players has taken a noticeable step forward, pointing towards bigger recognition as the season approaches. 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='2973666' first='Chanse' last='Smith'] - Smith has put together one of the strongest scoring summers in the class, stacking multiple 30+ point outings with a 40‑ball mixed in on the circuit. He plays as a confident creator who creates his own offense at all three levels, he's trending toward a major breakout as his consistency catches up with his talent.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2747264' first='Kingston' last='Cavaness'] - Cavaness is the definition of patient development. Steady work, no shortcuts, and a clear outlook with no extra noise. He's a seasoned lead guard who understands pace, plays with energy, and is finally stepping into the opportunity he's been preparing for.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2979231' first='Nic' last='Haines'] - Haines brings toughness, discipline, and a worker's mentality. After a mid‑summer hand injury, he's locked in on returning to form and picking up where he left off as a reliable off‑ball scoring threat with improving offensive tools.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2847858' first='Cooper' last='Davis'] - Cooper's frame and versatility allow him to slide between the 1–3 spots. He's tough to keep out of the paint, competes defensively, and posted a steady summer of growing production on both sides of the ball. A dependable, physical guard who impacts games even when he's not scoring.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2194615' first='Byron' last='Daniels Jr.'] - Byron plays with purpose as a small-package, pass-first guard. He keeps his head down and gets his reps in. His quickness and willingness to grind make him an interesting long‑term follow, especially as he continues to add layers to his game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2979226' first='Beckett' last='Scott'] - Scott's vision and timing separate him. He creates angles on drives, threads passes into tight windows and consistently hits moving targets. A true table‑setter who showed his passing prowess all summer, with the processing speed and IQ to elevate teammates. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2382052' first='Kyree' last='Dumas'] - Dumas is developing at a sharp pace, blending size with guard/wing skills. The athletic uptick is noticeable, and his trajectory points toward a multi‑positional threat as his confidence, mechanics, and physical tools continue to rise.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2979221' first='Axl' last='Janske'] - Janske brings effort, edge, and versatility. He attacks gaps, defends with intent, and showed growth this summer while adapting to different guard roles. He is trending upward as a competitive, reliable piece who keeps expanding his guard toolbox.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->