Rolling into the DMV, we look at a young rising star who already has plenty of attention coming his way early on. At Bishop McNamara up in Maryland, 2026 6’5 Qayden Samuels has been proving to be a big-time talent who can have an offensive impact, plays his own game and pace, can score in an array of ways, and can fill it up. And his game runs in the family, as he is the younger brother of UConn freshman Qadence Samuels, who is having a strong start to her college career for the Lady Huskies.
We quickly spoke to Samuels recently about his game and recruitment, along with his focus this season so far. Check out the latest going on, as he added yet another offer to his list.
Season Focus:
“It has been going great,†he said. “I trying to improve daily and help my team win games. I think scoring and rebounding have been where I have had a big impact on my team. I must continue to improve my decision-making as teams scout me to see how I can be effective and get my teammates involved as well.â€
Game Description:
“I would say that I’m a skilled scorer who can impact the game in multiple ways. I watch a lot of Anthony Edwards and I see similar things in myself in him. He is a leader and competitive.â€
Recruiting News:
Offers: Maryland, Providence, Illinois, VCU, Virginia Tech, Florida State, and Rutgers
There is no doubt about it, Samuels certainly has the attention of several high-major programs early on and that trend more than likely won’t stop any time soon. He has been able to rack in several offers over the last year, including two of his latest schools in Florida State and Rutgers.
FSU is one that he is quite familiar to him and his family, as his uncle went to that school.
“My uncle went to Florida State, so I know a lot about them,†he said. “He has always taught me about the college and program. I definitely want to visit them.â€
I am just grateful for every opportunity and college interest,†Samuels said after about the other offers.