6 Small Forwards Coaches Can't Stop Watching

In today's game, the small forward spot is more important than ever—blending size, skill, and versatility into one must-have position. Coaches across the country are hunting for wings who can shoot, defend, and impact the game without needing the ball in their hands. These six small forwards are doing exactly that. Whether it's elite shot-making, switchable defense, or high-motor play that shifts momentum, each one brings a unique edge to the floor. It's no surprise college staffs are dialing in—these are the small forwards they can't stop watching.    Bryson has been the biggest stock riser of the summer, dominating the EYBL circuit with elite efficiency and presence on both ends. He's shooting a blistering 45.6% from three while showcasing pro-level athleticism, positional size, and the ability to guard 1–4. His smooth scoring and defensive impact have made him a high-priority target across the country. Coaches can't stop watching because he checks every box with efficiency, explosiveness, and polish.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Deep Shooting ✅ Pro-Level Athleticism ✅ Defensive Versatility     Mario is a long, athletic wing who stretches the floor and defends with energy. His catch-and-shoot stroke is consistent, and he uses length and mobility to contest drives and closeouts. Coaches can't stop watching because he brings high-level wing tools without needing volume—effort, spacing, and size all in one package.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Spot-Up Shooting ✅ Defensive Length ✅ Energy & Mobility     Jayden is one of the most versatile small forwards in the class, capable of playing and defending spots 1–4 with confidence. He's a true playmaking wing—able to score at all three levels, create off the bounce, and bring toughness on both ends. His physicality shows up in rebounding and finishing through contact, while his motor fuels momentum-changing plays. Coaches can't stop watching because he offers a rare mix of size, skill, and all-around utility that fits any lineup.   Translatable Skills: ✅ 3-Level Scoring ✅ Positional Versatility ✅ Motor & Toughness     Kai is a polished wing and elite shooter who brings immediate value as a floor spacer. He knocks down threes with consistency, adds a smooth mid-range pull-up, and shows steady progress as a secondary playmaker. His positional size allows him to shoot over defenders and defend multiple spots effectively. Coaches can't stop watching because he checks key boxes—shooting, size, and skill growth—making him a perfect fit for programs prioritizing spacing and versatility.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Elite Shooting ✅ Positional Size ✅ Secondary Playmaking     Xavier is one of the most underrated wings in the class, but coaches can't stop watching because of his high motor, vocal presence, and all-around impact. He's a multi-level scorer who attacks with burst, finishes above the rim, and continues to improve his shooting stroke. Defensively, he's tenacious—guarding wings and stretch fours with physicality and purpose. He doesn't force offense, makes hustle plays, and communicates like a leader. Coaches value his energy, maturity, and willingness to do the little things that win games.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Versatile Defense ✅ Hustle & Communication ✅ Multi-Level Scoring     Daryus is an athletic wing who thrives in transition, defends in space, and brings toughness to every possession. He scores assertively off the catch and runs the floor with purpose, often turning defense into quick offense. His rebounding presence adds value, and his athleticism is still trending upward—boosting his long-term scoring ceiling. Coaches can't stop watching because his energy, defensive range, and developing explosiveness make him a high-upside two-way wing.   Translatable Skills: ✅ Transition Offense ✅ Spatial Defense ✅ Athletic Rebounding

In today's game, the small forward spot is more important than ever—blending size, skill, and versatility into one must-have position. Coaches across the country are hunting for wings who can shoot, defend, and impact the game without needing the ball in their hands. These six small forwards are doing exactly that. Whether it's elite shot-making, switchable defense, or high-motor play that shifts momentum, each one brings a unique edge to the floor. It's no surprise college staffs are dialing in—these are the small forwards they can't stop watching.