6’4 BJ Brown (Upward Stars)
Arguably the most impressive performer from the Class of 2026, Brown made a lasting impression with his combination of size, defense, nonstop motor, and perimeter shooting. Not only is he a high-level defender, but he plays extremely hard and genuinely knows how to outwork his assignment at every possible turn. Brown possesses amazing anticipation and recovery instincts, especially for his size, and is capable of defending multiple positions with relative ease. He eliminates operating space so well and truly suffocates opponents on the ball. Brown also plays effectively in the gap and offers terrific instincts as a help-side defender. That being said, he’s also a very useful offensive piece. Brown shoots the ball at a high clip, attacks closeouts, and either finishes or makes the correct read as a passer. There were a lot of notable prospects in the gym over the past weekend, and Brown was easily one of my favorites. Expect Division I coaches to get involved sooner than later.
6’2 Quh’mareon Webb (Next Level SC)
Between his scoring, playmaking, and general leadership, Webb always seems to shine as a leader and focal point for this group. He scores from all levels, touching the paint at a high volume, attacking the midrange, and converting from beyond the arc. Though he scores the ball with consistency, Webb maintains his willingness to create for others. He sees the floor and makes unselfish decisions off the bounce. However, Webb knows how to assert himself when the team needs a bucket or defensive stop. His IQ and level of confidence makes him the type of guy who others tend to rally around in crunch time situations. Webb’s stock continues to trend upward.
6’7 Lucas Wiersma (Upward Stars)
There were a lot of enticing young, blossoming pieces in attendance, and Wiersma is certainly among that group. At 6-foot-7, he’s a long, wiry forward with an extremely high motor and the ability to naturally make plays on both ends of the floor. Wiersma always seems to position himself for success, whether as a rebounder, defender, or floor-spacer. He finishes at a solid rate around the basket, but doesn’t require a ton of touches to make an impact. Wiersma is still adding strength but clearly has the tools to continue blossoming going forward.
6’4 Will Swann (Next Level Elite)
It was easy to appreciate the balance being shown from Next Level Elite, but Swann clearly stood out as a focal point throughout the weekend. He scored the ball with efficiency and variety, mixing it up at a high rate from all levels. Swann showed the ability to spot up from distance, hit jumpers off the bounce, finish at the basket, and hit several runners/floaters within the lane. He also made smart reads as a playmaker and moved very well without the ball. Swann scored with ease but looked to assert himself within the flow of the action, and consistently stepped up when his team needed.
5’8 Khristian Bruce (Upward Stars Pee Dee)
Though undersized, it’s easy to see everything Bruce brings to the table. He’s a tough, rugged, heady lead guard with phenomenal quickness and explosiveness. Bruce is a phenomenal competitor with a high motor and the ability to apply constant pressure as a downhill force and penetrating threat. That being said, he also knocks down jumpers at a respectable rate along the perimeter. Bruce defends the point of attack with intensity and rebounds the ball well for his size.