South Dakota 2026 Rankings Update

The updated South Dakota 2026 rankings have hit the site!

First of all, I REALLY like this South Dakota 2026 class. It contains many next-level prospects and a ton of depth. At the top is a high-end stud that already has D1 offers. D2's and NAIA schools are swinging for the fences as well. He's worth trying to get a steal. That's Blake Ellwein Blake Ellwein 6'10" | PF Huron | 2026 State SD , 6'8” wing of Huron with shot-making from deep and sees the floor at a high level. Plays within the game and takes great shots that his team needs him to hit to be successful. He normally delivers in a steady fashion. He's expected to hit 20+ points consistently from game-to-game this season.

Also, this class is an interesting one to rank because there's a lot of really good prospects that offer different elements and standout traits. After Ellwein, you're getting a next-level body and physicality with Colton Smith Colton Smith 6'5" | PF Mitchell | 2026 State SD of Mitchell and Hoop City South Dakota 17U. He played up a division and played his usual, impactful play. He can defend all over and is used as an interior defender. A slasher with a physical high-flying approach on the offensive boards. Competes and finishes going at the hoop.

Next at #3, is your next lengthiest and skilled prospect behind Ellwein, with Sam DeGroot Sam DeGroot 6'7" | SF Sioux Falls Lincoln | 2026 State SD of Sioux Falls Lincoln and Sanford Sports Academy SF 's top 16U team. He's a long 6'6” threat from deep range and beyond. Gets busy on the boards. I don't think he's anywhere near his peak yet.

Sam Ericsson Sam Ericsson 6'3" | CG Sioux Falls Lincoln | 2026 State SD , also of Sioux Falls Lincoln and Sanford, is the most dangerous scorer and capable of big scoring games in the 2026 class. The lefty shot-maker from all over the court is primed for a breakout this season. I think he comes out to be an All-State player. He's aggressive enough to have a nice scoring average, and he can take and make tough shots.

There was a good deal of reconsideration with some of the top prospects. It's a class full of wings and guards, and we placed some of those top prospects ahead of the two 6'8”-6''9” Bigs that need some development and more of a body of work. College coaches covet top percentile size, but some of these guards/wings can really impact a game. And they have length. So we're in a wait-and-see approach with some of these high-upside Big's prospects.

Prospects are ranked by how they project as college players and what level they should be recruited by.

Also of note, prospects that are highly considered for football scholarships and most likely to commit in that sport are moved back slightly.