One of the nation’s top guards in the junior class, Barnes continued his strong play by averaging 14 points over two games for the Golden Bulls. He brings high-level ball skills, quickness, and athleticism, consistently creating problems for opposing defenders. Barnes can keep defenses honest with his perimeter shooting and also possesses the vision and skill to function as a high-level playmaker.

Barnes had a sensational showing in his team’s opening game win over Jalen Green Elite at the 3SSB Invitational, as he would display his ability to create for others or shots of his own, with the ability to score it from 3-levels. The 6-foot-3 guard has a smooth stroke on the jumper, is efficient from beyond the arc off the dribble or the catch, has a smooth handle with shifty moves to create separation from his defender, has quick acceleration getting down hill off the bounce with a creative lay-up package, and has great body control through contact on shots within 15-20 feet from the basket. Given his shot making ability, Barnes also displays elite court vision, combined with quality decision making, to find open players when on the attack off the drive. Barnes plays with good pace and feel for the game, is under control when using his on-court speed, and makes use of the crossover or in-and-out dribble to keep his defender back peddling. Of the players in this article, Barnes is the only rising junior guard that was playing up in the 17u division and there was no doubt he belonged. 

I became familiar with Barnes last Summer in Rock Hill, when he helped lead Austin Rivers SE Elite to the 3SSB 16U Championship, so he was one I circled to check back in with this time around. He didn’t disappoint in Wednesday’s matchup with Breakaway, going for 16 points, 10 assists, and 3 steals in the win. Barnes makes up for his age with speed and IQ from his Point Guard position. Martay is a quick start and stop guy, keeping defenders uncomfortable when assigned to him. He also reads the game well on both ends of the floor to find teammates and force turnovers.

19p 4a 3r 5s 5/9 3P vs Highland

-Loved his decision-making on the ball— especially in transition— vacillating well between passing the basketball and getting to the rim. Pretty good shooter in rhythm, gets his feet set well and is confident. Really love his activity and attention to detail defensively as an active guard that forces a lot of turnovers and deflections with the timing of his digs and how he shades the ball with his hands. The burst and vertical pop really stood out as a twitchy guard prospect that really gets it done at both ends of the floor.

Shifty, confident lead guard who ran the show for the well-balanced Academy of Central Florida team this weekend. Crafty with the ball, can score at all three levels, and showed leadership, carrying a talented well rounded in the DMV Live 1 and 2. Plays with unbreakable confidence. Average 21 points, 2 assists, 2 and steals. Martay played for Academy of Central Florida this past weekend.

The No. 4 player in Florida’s 2027 class, Barnes is an electric point guard who plays with speed and flash. He can break down defenders off the dribble, get downhill in a hurry, and finish through traffic with creativity. His passing ability is another major weapon—he mixes sound decision-making with some flashy dimes, keeping defenders guessing. On defense, his active hands generate steals, making him a two-way threat. With continued growth, he’s got the potential to crack the top three.

Martay Barnes Martay Barnes 6'2" | PG The Academy of Central Florida | 2026 State #99 Nation FL is the #1 Prospect in Florida’s 2027 Class and after seeing him play up an age group with Austin Rivers SE Elite 16U I can’t say that I am surprised. He is lightning-quick with the ball in his hands and can get downhill in a hurry. Once he does, Martay is both a smart passer and a crafty finisher which makes him hard to stop as a Point Guard. Barnes also has a bit of flair and is prone to some flashy passes and dribble moves, only making him even more of an exciting watch. On the defensive end, he will chip in with his active hands causing steals and making life difficult for his matchup. Martay went for 23 Points in Austin Rivers SE Elite’s win over Upward Stars SE.