Hands down the best player in the 2028 class in Kansas I’ve seen this spring, Barrett just continues to get better and improve at a rapid rate. Most notably, he can get anywhere on the floor and does so in a relatively nonchalant manner. His quick handle and ability to start and stop on a dime consistently break down defenders, putting pressure on defenses to rotate and send help. The way he rejects and uses ball screens also keeps primary defenders off balance — he’s always in control. While he’s shown a deep finishing package, it’s his passing that has also jumped to the forefront. He’s finding teammates all over the floor and putting them in great positions to convert. His long-range shooting and midrange footwork continue to add layers to his game as well — there isn’t much he hasn’t shown this spring.

When you talk about point guard play, Barrett’s name rises to the top of the conversation. The best point guards impact the game by getting others involved while creating advantages, and that’s exactly what he did at the KC Classic. With the ball in his hands, Barrett was most effective — probing, reading defenses, and consistently putting pressure on the paint. His ability to read coverages in ball screen situations and manipulate the defense led to multiple scoring opportunities for both himself and his teammates. He used his body well as both a ball handler and an attacking player, creating space to pull up quickly or get all the way to the rim. With his quickness and athleticism continuing to grow and added size on the perimeter, he’s in line to make another jump soon.

Barrett is undoubtedly my pick for the top player in the 2028 class in Kansas. His sophomore season has seen him continue to take major steps, growing more comfortable as he gains experience. His handle and elusiveness with the basketball are tough to match, constantly keeping defenders off balance. He’s playing extremely well in ball-screen situations, making the right reads and attacking different defensive coverages with poise. An unselfish player and willing passer, Barrett can look off defenders and deliver teammates open opportunities with precision. As a scorer, he’s smooth and often makes difficult plays look effortless. With his length from the guard spot, he can shoot over defenders from deep or in mid-range situations, and he’s adept at creating space off the dribble, making him a threat to score almost anytime. Barrett has shouldered much of the offensive load for Free State this season, and that experience should pay dividends as he continues to develop over the next two years.

Brendan Barrett Brendan Barrett 6'3" | PG Lawrence Free State | 2028 State KS is the kind of player every team wants—a proven winner who impacts the game on both ends of the floor. He’s a dynamic playmaker with the ability to control the offense, create for others, and step up when his team needs a big play. Defensively, Branden brings intensity and awareness, using his effort and instincts to make stops and spark transition opportunities. His competitiveness, leadership, and all-around skill set make him a difference-maker who consistently finds ways to help his team succeed.

Branden is the definition of a hustle player—someone who gives maximum effort on every possession and makes the gritty plays that don’t always show up on the stat sheet. Whether it’s diving for loose balls, crashing the boards, or locking down on defense, he brings relentless energy and toughness to the game. Branden’s work ethic and willingness to do the dirty work make him an invaluable asset to any team, inspiring those around him with his commitment and heart.