Long has continued to elevate his game and looks poised for an even bigger season after returning as Windsor Charter Academy’s leading scorer at 18.6 points per game. Playing with State 38 United this summer, he has showcased a more complete offensive arsenal. Already known as a lights out shooter with deep range, Long took a major step last season by becoming a true above the rim finisher. This summer he has added another dimension by attacking off the dribble, keeping defenders off balance and creating for teammates. His improved playmaking and unselfish approach make him far more difficult to defend and position him as one of the state’s fastest rising prospects heading into the season

With players like Dayton, I get excited seeing how they fare against the top players in the state. There’s always this idea that players are only dominating because of the level of competition. But when they come out and have a performance, as he did at the Tune Up, what could they say? He was one of the top players on the court in every single matchup that he was up against. I liked how he played the passing lanes and got steals, turned that into fast break points, and showed he could lock down when needed. Offensively, he really separated himself as he slashed for baskets, went coast to coast, and even had a couple of dunks in transitions. Dayton was in complete control. In his game against RTS Choice, he showed more of that as a downhill attacker who couldn’t be denied going to the rim and looked like he was playing a different game. The game slows down for him, and he’s a player who I feel should make it a point to get out to all tourneys and showcases to prove that he’s one of the state’s top scorers. 

Dayton Long Dayton Long 6'3" | CG Windsor Charter | 2027 State CO put the state on notice a year ago as the 6’4 wing led Windsor Charter to an 18-8 record and made some noise in the playoffs. Dayton averaged 18.6 points a game, was one of the class’s top rebounders at 6.1 rebounds a game, and played with extreme confidence. That gave him a boost in the rankings as he demanded some respect with those kinds of numbers. Long saw opposing teams’ best defender and still was able to light it up, and we also just got to see him compete at the UNC camp last week, where he showed he could hang no matter who he is up against. He’s an athletic two-way player with size who is a nightmare matchup; he battles on every play and had a solid season. This year is about growth and growing that name even more, as I expect him to really show that he’s one of 3A’s best players. 

Long keeps impressing with his growth and the complete skill set he brings to the floor. His ability to stretch defenses with his shooting has always been a strength while also adding in his ability to be a consistent above the rim finisher takes his game to another level. Whether attacking in transition or cutting to the basket, he has turned into a true high flyer. As the leader of Windsor Charter he set the tone throughout the weekend with his communication, confidence and composure. Long played with poise whenever the ball was in his hands, making smart decisions and keeping his team organized. His blend of scoring ability, athleticism and leadership makes him one of the most impactful players to watch moving forward

Long showed exactly why he keeps climbing the rankings with another dynamic performance. He flies around the court with nonstop energy, constantly getting downhill, attacking gaps and putting pressure on the defense. If defenders sag off, he’s dangerous from deep and makes them pay. He finished with 13 points, highlighted by a buzzer beating half court three to end the first quarter that brought the crowd to its feet and shifted the momentum. His confidence and explosiveness that stand out, Long is a special player who continues to shine every time he steps on the floor

Dayton has arrived! The 6’4 guard is the focal point for opposing teams as every team is trying to figure out how to slow him down. They’ve given him double teams and different looks, and it simply hasn’t worked. He gets the boards and goes; he is dissecting defenses with isolation baskets, and he’s reading screens and taking what he likes. He gets to his spots and finishes, and occasionally steps out and knocks down the 3-ball. He’s a steady bucke,t and that’s been on display. He’s averaging 22.4 points a game and is just over 100 points away from 1,000 points scored. That will likely happen in a couple of games as he has his team looking for a deep playoff push. Solid year for the junior, and we hope to see more of him this summer and at showcases. 

Windsor charter makes up one of the best scoring duos in the entire state, and once they head into league play, I think that amplifies even more. One of those dangerous weapons over there is a 6’3 combo guard, Dayton Long Dayton Long 6'3" | CG Windsor Charter | 2027 State CO , who has dominated. Dayton makes a HUGE leap as he jumps into the Top 50 with his stellar play. He’s a force on both ends; teams want to get the ball out of his hands, and he’s looking to punish. He’s putting up 23.5 points and 9.3 rebounds a game. He’s protecting the paint, has shown to be a versatile defender, and is one of the intriguing players in the class that not too many know about. We would love to see him come to camp and showcase season, as I feel there’s more here than we realize. Huge rankings leap for this standout due to his early play junior season. 

Long has been on my radar since the summer, and even with just one game in, it’s clear he’s a problem for defenses. He opened the season with a strong 31 points, but it’s the way he impacts every part of the game that stands out. His vision and defensive quickness led to 5 steals with each one turning into a highlight dunk or a perfect outlet for a teammate. He looks dialed in from three, but it’s his fearless downhill attacks and ability to get to the bucket that make him must watch this season. Long is about to take off

Long earned his spot in the rankings by showing clear growth and versatility on both ends of the floor. He evolved from being primarily a deadly three point shooter into a more complete offensive threat, attacking the rim with confidence and finishing over defenders, making him a true highlight reel player. On defense he leverages his quickness, technique and anticipation to disrupt opponents, create turnovers, and impact the game without the ball. His ability to contribute in multiple ways and consistently improve with each performance made him a standout and secured his place among the ranked players

Long has shown steady growth in his game adding new layers to his offensive arsenal each time out. He’s already well known as a shooter especially from deep by stretching defenses and knocking down shots with confidence. What makes him stand out now is the work he’s put into his inside game. He moves with purpose, using quick cuts and timely flashes to the rim to create easy scoring chances. His athleticism gives him the ability to finish in highlight fashion, throwing down powerful dunks and being a constant lob threat on alley oops. This combination of perimeter shooting and explosive finishing makes him a matchup problem, forcing defenders to respect him at all levels.Long’s continued development shows he’s becoming a complete offensive player, with the ability to impact the game far beyond just being a shooter