Class of 2026 Rankings Top 10 Breakdown (1-5)

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The recently unveiled rankings for the Class of 2026 showcase an array of exceptionally talented players. Among them are individuals destined for collegiate-level play, with some poised for mid-major or high-major programs. While the initial list highlights over 30 promising prospects, it's anticipated that more will emerge as this class progresses through their high school careers. Without further ado, let's jump into the top 5 players from the Class of 2026.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='876349' first='Kaylee' last='Ward'] | Post | Mansfield</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Standing tall at 6'4", Kaylee dominates the 2026 rankings. With immense potential, she's set to hone her skills over the next two years. A key player for Mansfield, she led her team to the state championship game, making a lasting impact. Kaylee's talent and determination signal continued success for Mansfield. Recognized across the state, she's a top player regardless of classification. College scouts are taking notice, marking her as a future star at the collegiate level.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='876300' first='Jada' last='Maples'] | Guard | Earle</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Jada stands out as one of the top talents in the Class of 2026. Her raw talent is hard to match. Ranked at #2, some argue she deserves the top spot. Despite flying under the radar, Jada's skills attract attention from Division I colleges. As a versatile guard, she consistently delivers impressive performances for Earle, leading her team to deep playoff runs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='881468' first='Whitley' last='Rogers'] | Wing | Little Rock Christian Academy</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Whitley stands out as the most intriguing prospect in the Class of 2026. What sets her apart is her versatility across multiple positions. In high school, she effortlessly switches between playing positions 1 through 5. This flexibility will extend to the college level, where she can adapt to various roles. While she primarily operates at point guard, she's equally effective off the ball and on the wing. Additionally, she poses a threat in the high post. As a coach's kid with a sharp basketball IQ, Whitley is poised for continuous improvement each year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='876275' first='Payton' last='Futch'] | PG | Jessieville</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Every player in the Class of 2026 has areas to improve, and Payton is no different. This indicates the potential for significant growth in her game, despite her current skill level. As she continues to understand herself and her game better, she'll make a big impact in the state. With possibly the highest upside among her peers, it'll be exciting to watch Payton's development over the summer and the next two years.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='578159' first='Zaniyah' last='Johnson'] | PG | Searcy</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Zaniyah, also known as "Chip," is a player I've grown to admire. Whether in high school or on her travel team, she consistently delivers. As a defensive-minded point guard, she's a nightmare for opposing players. Yet, she's not just about defense; Chip can score too. With her tenacity and ability to learn from mistakes, she's a force to be reckoned with on the court.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->