Rankings update: Guards to watch c/o 2027

These players share a common trait that sets them apart: they know how to win and compete at a high level. Each one brings relentless energy, a competitive edge, and the ability to perform in pressure moments, which is why they continue to climb the rankings. Their combination of skill, work ethic, and basketball IQ allows them to impact games consistently, and their drive to improve keeps them moving upward. Simply put, they're not just talented—they're proven winners who elevate any team they're on.    [player_tooltip player_id='2205706' first='Avant' last='Riley'] has moved up a couple of slots, and it's easy to see why—he's an elite playmaker who's proving he's ready to take the reins. After dominating the playoffs last year, he's carried that momentum into this season, showing poise, confidence, and next-level skill. His performance has started to turn heads beyond the high school stage, gaining real traction from college programs that see his potential to thrive at the next level. Riley isn't just rising; he's arriving.     [player_tooltip player_id='2395695' first='Jordan' last='Maingu'] is the definition of a hustle player—high motor, tough on defense, and committed to doing the little things that win games. He thrives in team-oriented basketball, making smart decisions, moving without the ball, and embracing whatever role is needed. A proven winner in the Kapaun system, Maingu has shown he can excel within structure while elevating the players around him. His versatility, defensive reliability, and team-first mentality make him a natural fit for a wide range of programs looking for a competitor who impacts winning on every possession.     Paxton Scott is a quick, high-IQ guard who plays with a scrappy edge that coaches love. His speed allows him to push the tempo and create advantages, while his feel for the game shows in his decision-making and ability to read defenses. He's relentless on both ends—diving for loose balls, pressuring handlers, and finding smart ways to impact plays even when he's off the ball. Scott's combination of toughness, intelligence, and pace makes him a dynamic backcourt presence who consistently elevates the energy of his team.     Brenden Walsh has solidified himself as a top-five talent, dominating the KC area with his elite scoring ability. He's the kind of offensive threat who can take over a game at any moment—whether it's creating off the dribble, knocking down shots from deep, or finishing through contact. Walsh's confidence and consistency make him one of the most feared scorers in the region, and defenses are constantly forced to adjust just to slow him down. His rise is no fluke; he's proving night after night that he's one of the premier offensive players in Kansas City.     [player_tooltip player_id='2477696' first='Lamar' last='Govain'] has been steadily moving up the rankings, and for good reason. The guard is a true playmaker, with a natural ability to create opportunities for himself and his teammates. His vision, basketball IQ, and quick decision-making allow him to control the tempo of the game, while his skill set keeps defenses on their heels. Govain doesn't just rack up stats—he makes the players around him better, showing why he's earning recognition as one of the top guards in his class.

These players share a common trait that sets them apart: they know how to win and compete at a high level. Each one brings relentless energy, a competitive edge, and the ability to perform in pressure moments, which is why they continue to climb the rankings. Their combination of skill, work ethic, and basketball IQ allows them to impact games consistently, and their drive to improve keeps them moving upward. Simply put, they're not just talented—they're proven winners who elevate any team they're on.