The Central Valley big man has been a key force for them inside as they jump out to an 8-3 start with wins over Gonzaga Prep and Mead. Lippoldt has really improved his strength, mobility, and finishing inside, showing he can finish with some power as well as knock down some shots outside the paint.

We just put out an article highlighting some of the potential breakout players in the 2027 class, but Lippoldt is another name to watch this winter. He has shown some great growth over the summer, working confidently and quickly from the blocks, displaying a bigger variety of post moves while also looking more buttoned up with some of his simpler moves. He’s a strong post with some touch around the paint and will be a kid to watch this season.

Emerson is a real force down low and is emerging as one of the best big men in the 2027 class. He has great footwork down-low, being able to seal defenders and get open smoothly. He plays with energy and it feeds off to his teammates. He rebounds really well, being able to use his strength deep in the paint to out-body defenders and grab the board.