One prospect at Section 7 that truly turned heads was AZ Compass Preps’ Darren Ford Darren Ford 6'2" | CG/PG AZ Compass Prep National | 2028 #66 Nation AZ . The Louisiana prospect continues to dominate on both ends of the court as one of the top guards on the West coast. Facing off against Bella Vista Prep with dozens of high major programs watching, Ford knocked down deep three point shots and finished at the rim with physicality and skill. Meanwhile on the other end of the court, Ford used his long wingspan to disrupt the opposing guards and create turnovers for the Dragons.

Ford has been one of the most productive offensive players in Texas, averaging 21.4 points per game. He consistently pressures defenses with aggressive downhill attacks while also creating opportunities from the perimeter. His ability to carry a scoring load while remaining impactful as a secondary facilitator stands out.

✅ Aggressive downhill scorer
✅ Offensive versatility
✅ Consistent production

Darren Ford Darren Ford 6'2" | CG/PG AZ Compass Prep National | 2028 #66 Nation AZ continues to impress scouts nationally with his all-around game and impressive shooting ability. He is an elite long-range shooter. At 6’3″, 180 pounds, his frame is solid, and his athleticism is on full display in the open court. His ability to use the shoulder bump to create space makes him a nightmare for defenders, and his on-ball defense is equally impressive. As a top-three scorer in the EYBL, coaches are lining up to watch Darren Ford Darren Ford 6'2" | CG/PG AZ Compass Prep National | 2028 #66 Nation AZ . He picked up two more offers from Texas State and Florida International in Session 2, and more are sure to come.

Darren Ford Darren Ford 6'2" | CG/PG AZ Compass Prep National | 2028 #66 Nation AZ  is the top-ranked player in the state and is nationally recognized as a top recruit. His statistics speak for themselves, with back-to-back seasons averaging over 20 PPG, eclipsing 1,000 points midway through his sophomore season. He led the Ruston Bearcats in scoring and assists while spearheading a run to the State Championship. Physically, he is a gifted athlete, but skill-wise, he is elite in every measurable statistic: shooting, rebounding, defending, and assisting. You name it, and he is ahead of the pack with high percentages to boot. He is built like a middle linebacker with elite athleticism. His ability to dunk through contact is what separates him from others in his class, and today he is still only 15 years old. At 6’3″ and 180 pounds, he is a physical intimidator who is unstoppable offensively. The #1 spot is firm with Ford as we head into the Live Period.

Ford is the first of Basketball Royalty. He is the grandson of Basketball Legend Karl Malone. The story line sounds great, but the skill is what is most impressive. After watching Ford as a Freshman, I posted that he would be a 5 Star. Six months later, he received a four star ranking. Ford is an elite scorer and his constant pressure on the defense makes Ruston tough to figure out.

Ford can shoot the from the mid range out to the three point line with equal efficiency, and does not have to be in catch and shoot situations. He can create for himself and his understanding of creating space is special, considering he is 15 years old. His greatest ability is his basketball IQ. He makes the game easier for those around him, and as a PG, he will be one of the most recruited players in the nation. The sniper is in Ruston, and he came to win.

After a year at Ouachita, Ford made the jump to Ruston and will solidify an already loaded roster that just fell short of a top 28 bid a year ago. The bulky guard has a college ready body and college ready game. He plays at his own pace and can score from anywhere on the floor. He is a sticky defender with high IQ and uncanny instincts. Being just a sophomore Ford is sure to top this list in years to come. Player Comparison. Jrue Holiday. Grissom Pick #4.

Ford is one of the top players in the nation. His skills are elite. His mentality is elite, and his performance was also elite. He is a young player with more upside than can be estimated. At 15, he is a pure shooter and can get his shot wherever he wants on the court. His poise with the ball makes him only controllable with a double team. Ford uses the shoulder bump to bully players all over the court and you can only hope he misses a shot. Calling him a sniper would be right in line with his skill as one of a few players with his ability to shoot the ball. Recent offers from LSU and NC State are evidence of his acknowledged potential. His new home in Ruston could be the place where he builds his legacy.

Ford has been on a tear this summer, consistently impressing with his strong foundation in fundamental basketball. He excels in every aspect of the game, showcasing elite skill and seemingly adding more muscle to his frame each time he steps on the court. Ford’s recent offers from Kansas State and Arizona State University are a testament to his highly sought-after abilities. At 6’3″, his combination of skill and athleticism continues to elevate his ceiling. While he possesses many dangerous weapons, his ability to shoot off the dribble from mid-range and three stands out as a particularly potent threat. His special ability to bump defenders and rise for jumpers consistently proves him to be unstoppable.