These 2029's Could Continue to Climb After Recent Rankings Update

The 2029 rankings update has several rising prospects who have already made their mark. From versatile scorers to defensive anchors, these players have shown why they deserve recognition. Each has the potential to climb even higher, with key areas of growth that could elevate their game and separate them from the rest of the class.    Bradley showed why he earned his ranking with a strong summer performance. He's a tough player around the rim, finishing through contact and battling for buckets in the paint. His motor stands out as he runs the floor hard in transition his ability to step out and knock down the three when left open. That versatility makes him a constant threat on the court. Looking ahead the next step in his development will be creating his own looks against tight defensive pressure. As defenses key in on his strengths, becoming more comfortable with ball handling and shot creation in traffic will elevate his game even further. If Bradley can add that dimension, he'll continue to climb and become an even more complete prospect this upcoming year     Hasselbach continues to prove himself as a force around the glass. Offensively he shows great touch in close with solid footwork and the ability to consistently finish at the rim. On the other end he shines with active hands, creating deflections and forcing turnovers. His defensive presence makes him a player who can always impact the game, even when he's not scoring. For his development the focus will be on expanding his scoring range. Growing a reliable mid range jumper and stretching out to the perimeter will keep defenses honest and make him a more versatile weapon. If he can add that dimension to his offensive game while continuing to build as a defensive stopper, Hasselbach has the tools to become an even more complete two way player this season     Fornes stands out with his size and length, pairing that natural frame with a smooth shooting stroke. He's an excellent scorer from the floor, especially from deep and consistently gets to his spots with ease. His ability to stretch defenses and knock down shots makes him a dangerous perimeter option and a tough matchup for opponents. Looking ahead the next step in his game will be fully leveraging his physical tools. Using his size and athleticism to become a more consistent threat inside can open up new levels to his scoring. On the defensive end his length and reach give him the potential to be a true stopper, altering shots and controlling the paint. If he can blend his perimeter skill with an inside presence, Fornes will become an even more complete and impactful player this season     Charlotte proved that he is a true sniper from deep. He moves well without the ball, coming off screens and finding space to get his shot off quickly, making him a dangerous option when he's on the floor. His shooting gravity alone keeps defenses stretched and constantly on alert. For his continued development, the next step will be using his speed and quickness to become more of an attacking threat. Adding the ability to put the ball on the floor, drive past defenders and finish plays will open up his offensive game even further. By becoming a more versatile scorer, he'll not only add new ways to beat defenders but also create even cleaner looks from three. If Charlotte embraces that growth, he has the tools to develop into a complete offensive weapon this season     Smith is dynamic with the ball and able to create and score from anywhere on the court. His offensive skill set makes him a constant threat and on the defensive side he brings quickness and energy that disrupts opponents. He has shown the ability to take over stretches of a game with both his scoring and his defensive effort. For the next stage of his development, the focus will be on decision making and ball handling under pressure. Becoming more comfortable as a floor general while continuing to be relentless on defense will elevate his game. With his quickness, strength and mindset Smith has the potential to grow into a true two way impact player who can guard multiple positions and set the tone on both ends of the floor this season

The 2029 rankings update has several rising prospects who have already made their mark. From versatile scorers to defensive anchors, these players have shown why they deserve recognition. Each has the potential to climb even higher, with key areas of growth that could elevate their game and separate them from the rest of the class.