11 Breakout Impact Players in SD

As November practices draw near and gyms start to buzz again, it's the perfect time to spotlight this year's group of Breakout Impact Players — players poised to make major strides in the upcoming season. Some are stepping into bigger varsity roles, others are adjusting to new positions or programs, and many have simply taken their game to another level through hard work in the offseason.   We are looking a ballers from Class AA and A, this group showcases an exciting blend of talent, athleticism, and potential. Each brings a mix of talent, skill, and competitiveness that coaches love. With the 2025–26 season quickly approaching, all eyes will be on which of these up-and-coming standouts rise to the occasion.   A breakout impact player is someone who elevates their game significantly from previous seasons — stepping into a larger role, consistently producing on both ends of the floor, and becoming a key factor in their team's success. They're not just improving; they're making their presence felt every night.   <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><a href="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2022/11/BreakoutPlayers-crop-823x540-1675711988-crop-800x526-1676396283.jpg"><img src="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2022/11/BreakoutPlayers-crop-823x540-1675711988-crop-800x526-1676396283.jpg?w=799" alt="" class="wp-image-1798934" style="width:255px;height:auto" /></a></figure>    With a new head coach at the helm, the STM Cavaliers are set for a fresh look this season, and [player_tooltip player_id='2080607' first='Ashton' last='Paulsen'] could be one of the team's breakout players. His commitment to improvement is unmatched — countless hours in the gym and weight room over the offseason have translated into noticeable gains in strength, skill, and overall versatility. Ashton has developed a more well-rounded game, including an improved deep shooting range, and STM will be counting on him to take on a key leadership role. With his work ethic, toughness, and ability to make an impact on both ends of the floor, Paulsen has the potential to be a difference-maker as the Cavaliers aim for a deep run into mid-March.     [player_tooltip player_id='2250339' first='Bennett' last='Jensen'] is a combo guard with the potential to be a breakout baller and a starter for the Tigers this season. I would not be surprised if he starts at the 1. Bennett excels at creating for himself and others, with a terrific first two steps that allow him to attack the basket, create space, and generate opportunities in the halfcourt. Unselfish with the ball, Jensen also has a knockdown perimeter shot and the ability to orchestrate the offense, consistently producing quality looks for his teammates. Give him space and Jensen will make you pay 3 points at a time. To elevate his impact and earn more minutes, Bennett will need to take his perimeter defense to the next level. If he can make that adjustment, Jensen has the tools to put together an impressive season and emerge as one of the Tigers' key contributors in 2025–26.     [player_tooltip player_id='2230314' first='Braylen' last='Yellow Bird'] made a major impression at The Expo in Sioux Falls, standing out as likely the best player in the gym. O'Gorman coaches are equally high on him, praising not only his talent but also his work ethic and leadership. A recent addition to the OG squad from SF Jefferson, Braylen brings energy, dedication, and an unselfish style of play that immediately elevates those around him. I love how he talks his game. Always in motion, he thrives in the open court and transition, capable of putting up points while creating opportunities for his teammates. His relentless energy, love for the game, and commitment to being a true teammate make him an invaluable presence for O'Gorman this season. With Braylen on the roster, the Knights are gaining a dynamic, hard-working player who can make an immediate impact on both ends of the floor.     [player_tooltip player_id='2475519' first='Carson' last='Rasmussen'] is a talented young guard who could be one of the next breakout players for the Harrisburg Tigers. He had an impressive summer with Sanford Sports, consistently catching the attention of PHD and earning praise for his skill and playmaking. The Harrisburg coaching staff has also been encouraged by his development and what he brings to the floor. A skilled and confident guard, Rasmussen has the tools to make an impact, but his next step will be adapting to the physicality of varsity basketball. If he can make that adjustment, he'll be a major asset in the Tigers' rotation this season. With his basketball IQ, smooth skill set, and steady improvement, the Tigers have high hopes for Rasmussen heading into the 2025–26 campaign.     [player_tooltip player_id='2250487' first='Chace' last='Hermanson'] is poised to be a quality impact player for the O'Gorman Knights this season. Known to many as the quarterback of the Knights' football team, Chace brings leadership, poise, and a competitive mindset to the basketball court as well. Last season, he started out playing mainly with the JV and sophomore squads but steadily earned his way onto the varsity roster. A solid and consistent performer, Chace isn't flashy, but he does the little things that help teams win — from smart defense to timely plays and setting the tone for his teammates. With his work ethic and leadership, he could easily step into the starting rotation this year and serve as a true glue guy for the Knights, proving that role players who do the little things often have the biggest impact.     Sophomore [player_tooltip player_id='2468988' first='Hudson' last='Hillman'] is a long, athletic Tiger with exciting potential who could make a name for himself this season. He has the ability to knock down shots and, with continued development, could be giving valuable minutes on both ends of the floor by January or February. Hillman is more than just a scorer — he can pass the ball effectively and create opportunities for his teammates, helping make those around him better. With his size, athleticism, and growing skill set, the Tigers see him as a promising contributor and a player to watch in 2025–26.     Senior Jaxon Weeldreyer looks primed to be one of O'Gorman's breakout ballers this season. He showed glimpses of what he's capable of last year — especially in the opening round of the State Tournament against Harrisburg, where he delivered one of his best performances of the season, scoring 11 points on 4-of-6 shooting (including 2-of-3 from deep) while adding three offensive rebounds. Even in a narrow loss, Weeldreyer's poise and confidence stood out as he led the Knights' late push. Now entering his senior year, Jaxon has the experience, leadership, and skill set to take his game to the next level. A smooth perimeter shooter with the length to create space and the toughness to battle on the boards, he's poised to be a consistent contributor and a key piece for the Knights. If he carries that same confidence and composure into this season, expect Weeldreyer to emerge as one of OG's top breakout players in 2025–26.     [player_tooltip player_id='2693802' first='Kamden' last='Cisse'] is the kind of player who changes and impacts the pace of the game. At 6'3”, the senior brings an explosive athleticism and speed to the court that simply can't be coached, giving his team a constant edge on both ends of the floor. Hard-nosed, competitive, and relentless, Kamden has a natural ability to be in the right place at the right time, whether it's grabbing a loose ball, crashing the boards, or finding a seam on offense. Last season, he averaged 5 points per game, but expectations are much higher for 2025–26. With his work ethic, basketball IQ, and knack for impactful plays, Kamden is poised to be one of the team's breakout ballers this year. His speed, energy, and versatility make him a player to watch — someone who can ignite the offense, disrupt opponents, and elevate the team whenever he's on the floor.     [player_tooltip player_id='2250312' first='Myles' last='Nour'] is a rising talent for the Harrisburg Tigers who could be a breakout player this season. As a sophomore, he provided valuable minutes off the bench, showing glimpses of his potential with smart, aggressive play on both ends of the floor. Myles boasts a high basketball IQ and competes on every possession. A natural defender, he has quick reactions and a knack for creating turnovers, while also seeing the floor well and making plays in transition. With his combination of defensive instincts, court awareness, and competitive fire, Nour is poised to take a larger role and make a significant impact for the Tigers in 2025–26.     After a quality junior season and a standout performance in the State Tournament, [player_tooltip player_id='1641478' first='Stellen' last='Larson'] is ready to take the next step and become a major impact player. As the only returning starter, he brings experience, leadership, and a physical edge to the team. A strong, versatile baller, Larson plays bigger than his height, can score in a variety of ways, and will need to be a relentless presence on defense. With his combination of skill, toughness, and experience, he's poised to be one of the team's most important players in 2025–26.     PHD expects Buzzy to be one of the breakout stars in Class A. The Cavaliers have a new head coach and Gylten is going to blow up in the fresh system. After an outstanding summer, he's shown tremendous development in his game, combining athleticism, strength, and skill that will be invaluable to the team this season. Buzzy's work ethic has been phenomenal, and the Cavaliers are counting on him to be a key contributor and leader on both ends of the floor. With All-State talent and the ability to make a major impact, he's poised to help STM translate offseason improvement into success on the court as the team aims for a return to the State Tournament.    <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/10/image_476802.png"><img src="https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/10/image_476802.png" alt="" class="wp-image-3028421" /></a></figure>

As November practices draw near and gyms start to buzz again, it's the perfect time to spotlight this year's group of Breakout Impact Players — players poised to make major strides in the upcoming season. Some are stepping into bigger varsity roles, others are adjusting to new positions or programs, and many have simply taken their game to another level through hard work in the offseason.