Carlson earned his spot in the rankings after a summer that showed just how much his game has evolved. His size and length have always been strengths, but this offseason he took full control of the paint. He was dominant on the boards, altering shots and establishing himself as a true interior anchor. What stood out most was his expanded offensive game, whether it’s scoring inside or showing confidence stepping out and knocking down shots from mid range and beyond. That inside out versatility combined with his improved physicality and presence on defense, made him one of the most complete bigs on the floor. Carlson’s growth over the summer proved he’s not just a paint protector but a two way difference maker who earned every bit of his spot in the rankings

Carlson has plenty of tools to build on after a promising summer. His size and length make him a natural force inside, where he rebounds at a high level and controls the paint with sound footwork and technique. Offensively his inside out game gives him versatility, he finishes efficiently around the rim while also showing the awareness to pass out when the right shot isn’t available. At the Expo, continuing to expand his range, polish his touch away from the basket, and showcase his defensive presence against elite competition could elevate his game and solidify him as a complete frontcourt threat

Taz Carlson Taz Carlson 6'7" | C Cherry Creek | 2027 State CO has made his mark on the Colorado basketball scene since the beginning of his high school career. The 6’7 center has taken impressive strides in his development, acquiring a consistent outside jumper and making quick decisions in transition. Carlson’s inside game is what shines brightest, as he muscles through contact and earns numerous trips to the foul stripe.

Taz Carlson Taz Carlson 6'7" | C Cherry Creek | 2027 State CO is a big you can count on to produce a heavy flow of buckets down on the blocks. With controlled footwork and a soft touch in the post, it’s a nightmare for defenders to match up with Carlson on a game-to-game basis. Defensively, Carlson boxes out effectively and secures plenty of rebounds on both ends of the court. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that Carlson can send shots to the bleachers on defense, too.

Taz Carlson Taz Carlson 6'7" | C Cherry Creek | 2027 State CO is a well-rounded big that Tru Colorado needs. Carlson does a great job of establishing himself in the post and using his footwork to come away with easy buckets. A solid rebounder, Carlson hustles on both ends of the floor to secure as many boards as possible. At 6’7 and still growing, it’s scary how good Carlson could get, especially with a consistent jumpshot.

Taz Carlson Taz Carlson 6'7" | C Cherry Creek | 2027 State CO is a polished big man who can swiftly move through defenses down in the paint. Carlson’s footwork when he gets the ball is impressive for his class, and his development will construct a future all around superstar.

Taz Carlson Taz Carlson 6'7" | C Cherry Creek | 2027 State CO is an all around big who can hold his ground even against taller centers. Carlson can stack up plenty of rebounds and blocks in the stat column, and hustle for second chance points.

Carlson provided noteworthy rim protection in multiple local events, bringing in great height stepping into his sophomore season. Often looking to post up from the low blocks, he brings plenty of confidence, looking to pressure his opponents once granted access to the low block. 

Carlson’s wide reach provided 5280 with immediate rim protection value, fairly mobile at his height. Bringing in active hands while cnotesting drives or shots along the perimeter, Carlson is already an intriguing defneisve prospect at this stage. The forward looked to back down opponents in the post, capable converting turnaround hooks and pivot moves against ideal matchups. His defensive upside cannot be overlooked, bringing plenty of value protecting the rim at this age group.