Nene is the player for me who I just truly thinks game translates most in this conference. Where he’s at now, I can only imagine what it will look like Senior year but his IQ stands out most for me. He naturally understands the game, he finds holes in the defense, he”s always moving and you can insert him in any lineup, game or setting and I feel he will just fit in. It’s beyond the numbers for me for him but he did get some playing time on one of the best teams in the state as a freshman. He’s quickly adjusted to the speed of the game as a freshman, we got to see him both in and out of state and he also played well on the EYCL circuit. Nene is consistent, unselfish and a playmaker and having those traits heading into sophomore season puts him in a different category for me. I’m both excited and curious to see how it looks for him this season as he should be a bigger piece that Windsor brings out this year.

Nene is a big stock riser for me as I believe he’s one of the hardest working players in this class and 2029’s best Swiss-Army Knife. He does it all on the floor and is so high IQ that many parts of his game go unnoticed because his game isn’t only predicated on scoring. He’s a passer who sees plays happen before they develop, he communicates on where teammates should go, he’s making cuts not just to score but to space the floor, and you even see it as a help-side defender. That Windsor team loses one of the state’s best prospects this year but have a young group who could fill in the gaps, and that’s what Nene excels in. Really enjoyed how he played over the Summer and I hope I don’t bite my tongue with all of these things I was able to see from him.

Pedersen’s value comes from how naturally he impacts team basketball. He rebounds outside his area, moves the ball quickly, and consistently keeps possessions connected without needing touches called for him. The feel continues to improve, and you can see the confidence growing each time out. He understands spacing, timing, and role responsibility at a young age, which is why he keeps finding himself on the floor. As the physical tools continue catching up, there’s a lot to like long term.

Pederson is gaining valuable experience on a championship-level roster, and he’s maximizing it. He rebounds with urgency, moves the ball unselfishly, and brings steady energy. The game is slowing down for him, and his feel for contributing in subtle ways stands out. He’s building chemistry with the team and showing that he belongs. He’s a glue guy who has an understanding of what’s going to keep him on the court and is starring in his role early on. He makes his rankings debut and is a player worth following.

Pederson is a 6-foot guard who looked poised to be a freshman playing in that event. What stood out to me was his confidence and feel. He plays on and off the ball, shoots with rhythm, and hunts quality looks. He got hot during stretches, making extra passes and showing strong basketball IQ. Pederson proved that varsity pace won’t intimidate him, and he’s a name who will gain traction quickly this season. He’s a player!