Kai Holmes is an athletic playmaker who projects well to the next level because of his versatility and physical tools. With a long reach and the ability to elevate, Holmes consistently impacts the game above the rim while attacking the basket with confidence. He’s active on the glass as a strong rebounder and does a great job keeping plays alive through his energy and effort. His combination of athleticism, length, and ability to make plays on both ends makes him a valuable all-around wing heading into next season at Minnesota State-Moorhead.

Projected Level: NAIA, D3

Analysis: A transfer from 4A Marist made an immediate impact at the state’s highest classification, proving he belonged from day one. With an elite combination of size, length, athleticism, and skill, Holmes stood out not just in the Southwest Conference, but across the entire state. A true two-way force, Holmes influenced the game on both ends of the floor. Offensively, he showed the ability to take over, putting up big performances throughout the season while scoring at all three levels. Defensively, his length and activity created problems, generating steals and disrupting opposing offenses. He finished the year averaging 20 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals per game, leading a team that tied for the conference title. Holmes’ versatility, athleticism, and production make him one of the most impactful and well-rounded players in the state. (JT)

HONORABLE MENTION

The 6’6 lefty wing jumped up two levels & didn’t skip a beat, leading Sheldon to a league title, earning league POY honors along the way. Another tough match up because of his size & shooting ability. Holmes is another player in the 2026 class who is attracting significant D2 & NAIA college interest.

The transfer from 4A Marist showed he belonged at the state’s highest classification from day one and his combination of size, length, athleticism, and skills were among the best in the entire state – not just the Southwest Conference. Holmes made an impact on both ends of the floor and when he really got going offensively, he posted some huge games statistically for a squad that tied for the conference title.

The best was saved for last as Holmes put on a show. After a solid first half with 12 points, with the Irish trailing rival Thurston the senior swingman decided to take over. Late in the third quarter, Holmes hit three consecutive threes – a couple of them way beyond the three-point line – and then fired a pass over to teammate Kai Holmes Kai Holmes 6'6" | SF/SG Sheldon | 2026 State OR for a three to close out the period. Sheldon held on for the intense 67-64 victory and Holmes finished with 34 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks, showing dominance on both sides of the ball.

A player moving up in classification is Holmes, who goes from 4A Marist (where he was First Team All-Sky-Em and Honorable Mention All-State) up to Sheldon where he’ll be a big boost to a program that graduated several key seniors. While he stands 6-foot-6 and will be expected to contribute inside, the rising senior has tremendous perimeter skills and should prove himself as a multi-faced threat on the offensive end. (JT)

Long lefty who had a strong mix of playmaking, defending, and scoring. Showed a good stroke from three, and used his length at the rim to finish over defenders and with some power. Was also able to block several shots and steal passes with his reach and quick feet.