Rankings Release: Statement Making Guards

After updating the rankings for the Class of 2026, it's time to acknowledge some of the prospects that made the list.   Today, we'll start our positional breakdown by looking at the Guards.   Below are ten prospects, ranking from just outside the Top 50 to the Watch List, that cracked our latest rankings update.    Williams, a dynamic combo guard out of Milton Academy, checked into this update at #54. A high academic guard, he's one of the better perimeter isolation scorers in this class. There's some serious wiggle off the bounce, a quick first step when attacking the rim, and good use of his length as a scorer in the paint. He makes contested jumpers in the mid-range and can get hot in a hurry from behind the arc. Defensively, he uses his length to his advantage and has quick hands that lead to deflections and steals.     Moore, a crafty lead guard out of Northfield Mount Hermon, makes his first appearance in the New England rankings at #58. A tough, compact guard that thrives as a downhill driver, he does a nice job of playing through contact and finishing plays at the rim. A scholarship level prospect, he has the ability to also score at the 2nd and 3rd levels, makes plays for others with the ball in his hands, and can get by defenders in isolation situations. Defensively, he's tough, competitive, and makes an impact on the defensive glass.     Robinson, a tough combo guard out of the Pomfret School, makes the updated list at #127. A competitive, tough guard, he has intangibles that coaches love and plays with a high motor on the defensive end of the floor. A standout due to his physical gifts, including some impressive athletic pop and plus positional strength, he turned a corner with his skill development this season. He can operate with the ball in his hands, does a great job of keeping defenders off balance, and is now consistently making shots in the mid-range and from behind the arc.     Safran, a lead guard out of New Hampton School, claims the #164 spot in these rankings. A heady, playmaking guard, he does a nice job of keeping his eyes up and surveying the floor in transition. He pushes the tempo, finds open shooters off of drives, and can finish with touch over size in the paint. When he slides off the ball, he's a consistent shooter in catch and shoot situations. Defensively, he makes plays in passing lanes, is in the right spot in the help, and is the first to the floor for loose balls.     Wilson Jr., a versatile guard out of St. Luke's, checks into the rankings at #197. A change of pace guard, he does a nice job of attacking the rim in transition, making plays off the bounce, and delivering passes on time and on target to shooters. He uses shot fakes and jab steps to his advantage, keeping defenders off balance, and using any space they give him to get into his jumper. He knows how to use screens, makes quick decisions as a passer, and limits his turnovers. Defensively, he's a strong defender at the point of attack that limits dribble penetration.     Stanley, an athletic guard out of Keene, earned spot #204 in this rankings update. With good athletic pop and nice burst, he's one of the better perimeter defenders in the area. He uses his length, quickness, and toughness to his advantage on the defensive end of the floor, keeping opposing guards out of the paint and also making an impact in passing lanes. He's a tough downhill driver, can score with his athleticism at the rim, and has started to show more and more breakdown ability off the bounce.     Cohen, an undersized lead guard out of Brimmer & May School, claims a spot on the Watch List in this update. He takes advantage of his low center of gravity and ability to move quickly from side to side as an on-ball defender. He isn't afraid to use his hands to his advantage and does a nice job of forcing opponents into mistakes that lead to turnovers. Offensively, he does a great job of pitching the ball ahead in transition, can score with touch over size in the paint, and has good vision when operating as a ball handler in ball screens.     Kiger, a lead guard out of Fairfield Prep, checks into New England as a member of the Watch List. A talented perimeter shooter, he's quick into his load position off the catch and has a high release, allowing him to get his shot off before the defenses closes. He works hard to get open on the offensive end of the floor, using screens to his advantage and making defenders work hard to stay with him. He has in the gym range, can get hot once he sees the ball go through the hoop once or twice, and leverages his shooting to open up driving lanes.     Meltzer, a skilled guard out of the Newman School, appears in this rankings update with a spot on the Watch List. A crafty, three level scorer, he has the ability to play on or off the ball offensively. He does a nice job of making plays in the open floor, shows a good understanding of when to use shot or pass fakes, and can make shots in bunches in catch and shoot situations. On the defensive end of the floor, he can guard either spot in the back-court, rebounds in space, and has the athleticism to block shots when coming from the help side.     Zabel, a true lead guard out of the Hotchkiss School, makes his way into the rankings with a spot on the Watch List. A crafty floor general, he does a nice job of playing at different speeds, keeping the defense off balance, and using good burst when he attacks. He always has his eyes up the floor, makes quick decisions as a ball mover, and really knows how to read defenses coming out of ball screens. His passing is his best skill, but he also shows the ability to score from behind the arc, both in catch and shoot situations and when creating space with his bounce.

After updating the rankings for the Class of 2026, it's time to acknowledge some of the prospects that made the list.