2027 Rankings Update: Top 5 Centers

The future of frontcourt play in Texas is in good hands with a growing crop of young bigs in the 2027 class. These prospects may vary in size and style, but each brings something unique to the position—whether it's rim protection, physical rebounding, or high-motor interior play. As the modern game continues to evolve, these centers are proving they can adapt with versatility, toughness, and defensive presence. Expect this group to keep developing into foundational pieces for their teams at the next level.    [player_tooltip player_id='2112008' first='Xander' last='Pruzinsky'] is one of the most polished interior defenders in the 2027 class. He plays with excellent timing around the rim, contests without fouling, and alters shots at a high rate. Offensively, he's efficient in the paint, keeps the ball high, and finishes through contact. As his mobility and offensive skill set continue to grow, Pruzinsky has the tools to be a legitimate anchor on both ends of the floor.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Shot Contesting & Timing ✅ Interior Finishing ✅ Defensive Awareness     Though undersized at the center position, [player_tooltip player_id='2253448' first='Don'Quavies' last='Ford'] plays with toughness, energy, and physicality that consistently impacts the game. He rebounds aggressively on both ends, embraces contact, and uses his strong base to hold post position. Ford's motor allows him to compete against bigger opponents and contribute valuable minutes as a defensive presence and rebounder.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Physical Rebounding ✅ Post Positioning ✅ Motor & Toughness     [player_tooltip player_id='2252505' first='Kamsi' last='Nwosu'] is a long, projectable big with raw tools and high upside. He moves well for his size, has solid hands, and flashes of rim protection are already showing in his game. As he continues to develop his footwork, conditioning, and strength, Nwosu has the potential to become a game-changing interior presence on both ends.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Length & Rim Protection ✅ Paint Presence ✅ Long-Term Upside     [player_tooltip player_id='2253072' first='Landon' last='Sowders'] is a strong, active big who plays bigger than his height suggests. He's effective around the basket, setting solid screens, rolling hard, and rebounding with physicality. He embraces the dirty work and gives consistent effort on both ends. Sowders fits well as a role-playing interior enforcer who brings grit and toughness.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Screen Setting & Paint Activity ✅ Rebounding in Traffic ✅ Energy & Effort     Despite being undersized, [player_tooltip player_id='2198607' first='Luke' last='Worden'] brings value through his high IQ, positioning, and toughness inside. He understands angles, boxes out well, and provides a strong interior presence for his team. His leadership and effort give him a chance to contribute in multiple ways, even against bigger opponents.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Interior IQ & Fundamentals ✅ Box-Out & Rebounding Technique ✅ Hustle & Grit

The future of frontcourt play in Texas is in good hands with a growing crop of young bigs in the 2027 class. These prospects may vary in size and style, but each brings something unique to the position—whether it's rim protection, physical rebounding, or high-motor interior play. As the modern game continues to evolve, these centers are proving they can adapt with versatility, toughness, and defensive presence. Expect this group to keep developing into foundational pieces for their teams at the next level.