2027 Pre-Season Watchlist: Forwards to Remember

<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2198589"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"[player_tooltip player_id='2198589' first='Dawson' last='Battie'] is a long and athletic forward with impressive footwork and handles which make him a game-changing scorer and shot creator. He can score in various ways, whether it's through smooth moves and a reliable mid-range jumper, launching from beyond the arc off the catch, or elevating above the rim with a quick bounce. Battie's shot selection reflects both his skill set and basketball IQ.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-653c0782aafa2"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2252464"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"[player_tooltip player_id='2252464' first='Braylon' last='Griffith'] possesses a wide range of skills and capabilities on both ends of the court. He excels as a fantastic finisher at the rim, displaying prowess both above and below the rim, and he's more likely to dish out punishment than to take it. Griffith exhibits a masterful ability to convert challenging shots through traffic, contact, and fouls. He's also proficient at knocking down mid-range jump shots with solid mechanics and touch. His off-ball instincts and intangibles shine through, as he demonstrates excellent awareness of when and where to cut or make timely moves.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-653c0782ab017"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2112008"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"[player_tooltip player_id='2112008' first='Xander' last='Pruzinsky'] stands out as one of the most promising forwards in the 2026 class, offering a multifaceted game that makes him a dynamic prospect. He's incredibly versatile, capable of contributing both inside the paint and on the perimeter. His face-up and back-to-the-basket skills are among the best in his class. Pruzinsky's high-flying potential is exceptional, already wowing crowds with his outstanding dunking ability that leaves spectators in awe.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-653c0782ab06f"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2125247"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"If you're a fan of high motor prospects, [player_tooltip player_id='2125247' first='Marneko' last='Thomas'] is the prospect for you. He consistently stands out as the most active player on the floor while displaying unwavering energy and an incredible pursuit of the ball. Offensively, he excels out of the triple threat, showcasing fantastic pivot footwork that often creates space for a shot or an angle to drive. Each move Thomas makes is explosive, well-balanced, and under control, particularly when he's maneuvering on two feet.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-653c0782ab0ca"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2252157"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"[player_tooltip player_id='2252157' first='Isaiah' last='Santos'] possesses tremendous potential from his combination of size, basketball IQ, and fearless nature. Being part of the Seven Lakes squad will bring out the best in Santos, maximizing his game and development. It's highly likely that Santos will emerge as one of the top prospects in this Texas class.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-653c0782ab11b"} /-->