Another elite guard who made a big jump in the rankings is Rouse. Like Javarious, Thomas stepped in the biggest moments this season, proving he can play at the next level. Notable games include 28 and 4 against Byrnes, plus 20+ points and 6+ assists in the final game of the regular season and the first game of the playoffs. Rouse made up part of one of the best backcourts in the state this season, and his improvement this season is one of the biggest reasons why the Eagles well-outplayed their preseason expectations. He does have a smaller frame, but Thomas is more than capable of excelling off the ball with shooting or running the offense with facilitating and athletic finishing.

There were few more complete performances at the 2026 Prep Hoops SC Showcase than Thomas Rouse Thomas Rouse 6'3" | CG Eastside | 2026 State SC in Eastside’s win over Easley. He went for 16 points, 4 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 steals in game two, impacting the game in many ways to help his team get a win. Although he was effective getting to his spots and playing in transition, it was Rouse’s passing that most stood out to me. He often found his teammates on drives and from the perimeter, setting them up in positions to be successful.

Rounding out the list of September Stock Risers is Thomas Rouse Thomas Rouse 6'3" | CG Eastside | 2026 State SC . Rouse moved up 30 spots from 192 to 92 this time around. He is capable of playing either position in the backcourt and did so with both teams this Summer. He has a decent handle and is a good passer, but can also provide some scoring while on the floor.

Rouse will be a new addition to the 2026 Rankings after a strong start to the AAU Season and continued good play into June. He was a big reason why the Eagles won by a combined 97 points across two games on Friday, including a 14-point, 4-assist performance in a win over Chesnee. Thomas is an all-around offensive threat, capable of creating scoring opportunities for himself and others off the bounce. He can run a pick-and-roll, pull-up in the mid-range, space with perimeter shooting, and make the extra pass. Rouse also makes things happen on defense with active hands and glass-cleaning.