Stock Up: 2027 Prospects Making Their Rankings Debut

The 2027 rankings update drops this Wednesday, and several under-the-radar prospects are making their long-awaited debut. Some were quietly grinding on our watch list, while others recently popped onto our radar with standout performances. After taking a closer look, it's clear these players have earned their spot.     Tewodros dominated on JV last season and made the most of limited varsity minutes on a loaded squad. He's a multidimensional prospect with great size who can score, make plays, rebound, and defend. With a bigger role coming, he'll need to show that full skill set. We'd like to see him stand out more in grassroots and showcases, but we've seen enough to move him from the Watch List into the rankings.     Barnett wasn't ranked last time around, but his strong summer and impact on a stacked [program_tooltip program_id='2075463' first='Elevation' last='Flyers'] squad earned him a spot. At 6'5", he has the size to bang inside and the touch to hit from deep. I like his inside game and ability to compete. He battles. Cherry Creek will be asking new players to step up, and Bodhi is poised for a breakout. Expect one of the biggest jumps in this class, as I feel that he's ready to surprise a lot of people this year.     Merilatt brings physicality, toughness, and a high IQ to every game, and that is what sets him apart. He uses his frame to battle inside and showed a strong touch around the rim this summer. He runs the floor, finishes through contact, and even knocks down midrange jumpers. He's not just a bruiser, as he creates for himself but also excels as a slasher and consistent scorer. After moving off the Watch List, Merilatt will debut in the rankings this cycle.     Meschuk is one of my favorites in the state, and not just because of his on-court ability. He markets himself like no other player, shows his daily grind and love for the game, and that work ethic translates. He brings energy to the floor and defends with instinct. What stands out about him is his willingness to make winning plays that don't always show up in the box score. He's a leader, hustler, and glue guy with good size and productivity. Leaping the rankings, he's someone I expect to make real noise this season.     Boyd was a standout during grassroots with Hooptherapy and now heads into the season with momentum. He's a team-first big who protects the rim, defends with energy, and plays hard every possession. Offensively, he crashes the boards and finishes second-chance points with toughness. His motor and rebounding instincts keep him on the floor. Jumping into our rankings this cycle, Boyd is a name that will be buzzing as the season tips off as a player that should pop out.

The 2027 rankings update drops this Wednesday, and several under-the-radar prospects are making their long-awaited debut. Some were quietly grinding on our watch list, while others recently popped onto our radar with standout performances. After taking a closer look, it's clear these players have earned their spot.