Look Out for These 2027 Forward Prospects to Make Noise This Fall

The 2027 Forward class brings plenty of versatility that people should start taking notice of! I watched all six of these prospects over the past summer and I believe all of them will be college prospects when it's all said and done. Let's recap the top 2027 Forwards from the Prep Hoops Circuit!    [player_tooltip player_id='2252213' first='Xavier' last='Muhammad'], a dominant post player in the Prep Hoops Circuit this summer, stands at 6'5” and weighs 250 lbs. His imposing frame allows him to bully his way through contact and create clean looks around the rim. Over the past two years, I've closely observed Xavier's game, and he consistently leverages his strengths without forcing anything beyond them. In multiple games, opposing teams struggled to contain him in the post, often leaving him at the free throw line. What truly sets Xavier apart is his agility and versatile play on both ends of the floor, ensuring his presence in every possession. His exceptional rebounding ability makes him a double-double threat.   What's Next for Xavier? Xavier is a current junior who is a dual sport athlete who excels exceptionally well in football. Recently, he has received multiple offers from prestigious schools and has been recognized for his exceptional teamwork. He actively participates in college visits, helping his teammates gain exposure and build connections. His willingness to support his teammates speaks volumes about his character. On the court, Xavier is poised to make a significant impact for South Houston, leading the front court.     [player_tooltip player_id='2826055' first='Jamal' last='Merchant'] is an athletic wing player that utilizes his explosive abilities on both ends of the court, contributing in various ways. Defensively, he effectively covers ground against opposing ball handlers and actively gets in the passing lanes to generate steals. During the Space City Collision, Jamal's high energy was evident. Offensively, he is a capable shooter from range off the catch but truly shines when running his lanes in transition to convert layup and dunk opportunities. In the half court, Jamal can be an effective cutter and a threat off the ball.   What's Next for Jamal? Jamal is currently in his junior year at Fort Bend Elkins High School as he aims to carry his summer momentum into the upcoming fall season. Given his current skillset, I believe a successful fall season could significantly enhance his stock. I eagerly anticipate witnessing Jamal's growth and development within his game before he graduates in 2027!     Kenan Dikamba is a 6'6” wing player that is a versatile player who should be on college radars. I was particularly impressed with his performances at the Grind Region Finals, where he showcased his offensive and defensive skills. Offensively, he can score in various ways on all three levels, demonstrating consistent offensive play. Kenan is also a strong rebounder, making a significant impact in that department during the games I watched him play this summer. He handles the ball well in the open floor, effectively creating opportunities for himself and his teammates. In my opinion, Kenan is one of the most overlooked prospects in the 2027 class.   What's Next for Kanan? After his AAU season concluded, I recently had the opportunity to watch Kenan participate in the John Lucas Be Elite Camp. Throughout the past two seasons, I've observed his consistent high-level competition. Given his current skillset, I'm confident that Kenan has the potential to contribute significantly to a college team. Notably, Kenan is currently a junior at Legion Prep!     Ben Watkins is a 6'5” forward from Oklahoma who plays a physical and aggressive style of basketball in the paint. During the Grind Region Finals, I witnessed his ability to create space between himself and his post defenders, resulting in valuable paint points. In transition, Ben was active by running his lanes and occasionally taking the ball coast to coast. His presence in the paint is reliable, as he consistently rebounds on both ends. I was particularly impressed with his offensive rebounding skills, which significantly contributed to second-chance points.   What's Next for Ben? Ben is a current junior at Hillsdale Christian School and is poised to carry his summer momentum into the fall season. In Oklahoma, he ranks among the top 30 players in his position and is considered one of the top prospects in his state's 2027 class. I will be observing Ben's recruitment journey between now and his senior year.     Trelyn Shepard was a standout player at the Grind Region Finals that showcased his versatility on both ends of the court. On offense, he excels in receiving paint touches and creating mismatches. Trelyn demonstrated confidence by bringing the ball up after defensive stops, creating opportunities for himself mainly. While finishing in the paint, he absorbed a lot of contact, resulting in frequent trips to the free throw line. Defensively, Trelyn is comfortable playing on the perimeter against opposing ball handlers and post players inside the paint.   What's Next for Trelyn? Trelyn ranks among the top 10 players in the state overall and holds the position of the second-best player in his position in Arkansas. Currently he is a junior at Riverview High School, where he aims to maintain his status as one of the top players in the class of 2027. I am confident that Trelyn will receive numerous college offers before his senior year.     [player_tooltip player_id='2388608' first='Jagan' last='Thomas'] was one of the best standout forwards I observed this summer during the Prep Hoops Circuit, showcasing exceptional all-around skills. Offensively he poses a significant threat to opposing defenses with his soft touch at the rim, reliable mid-range and perimeter shooting, and the ability to score from all three levels. His pre-shot preparation and strategic approach to scoring make him a formidable force on the court. Beyond his offensive prowess, Jagan demonstrated his rebounding abilities on both ends, resulting in numerous high-rebounding games. Additionally, he consistently contributes to the offensive flow by making smart passes that set his teammates up for success.   What Next for Jagan? Jagan is a junior at Dallas Bishop Lynch High School who aims to carry his impressive production from the summer into the fall season. During the P32 League, he consistently averaged double figures in points, showcasing his exceptional skills. I haven't heard much about his recruiting world, but I am confident that he will attract numerous suitors at the next level.

The 2027 Forward class brings plenty of versatility that people should start taking notice of! I watched all six of these prospects over the past summer and I believe all of them will be college prospects when it's all said and done. Let's recap the top 2027 Forwards from the Prep Hoops Circuit!