2026 Under-the-Radar Centers: Rising Stock in the AAU Season

The players listed have significantly increased their stock through their amazing play at the small forward position this AAU season. Their consistent high-level performance has caught the attention of scouts and evaluators, cementing their status as rising talents    [player_tooltip player_id='947830' first='Avery' last='Ryan'] exemplifies the role of a traditional back-to-the-basket center. Her game is built around establishing strong position in the low post, where she thrives on receiving the ball with her back to the defender.   From this dominant position, Avery utilizes her size, strength, and an arsenal of fundamental post moves to score effectively. Whether it's a powerful drop-step, a refined jump hook, or turning over either shoulder for a face-up move, she consistently finds ways to convert in the paint, making her a formidable and reliable interior scoring threat.     Shaniya is truly an all-around center star, demonstrating a comprehensive skill set that impacts every facet of the game from the post position. She's not just a scorer or a rebounder; she excels in multiple areas, making her an indispensable presence on the court.   On offense, Shaniya consistently contributes points through a variety of post moves, strong finishes, and often showcases her ability to score in different ways. Defensively, she's a formidable presence, deterring shots, protecting the rim, and securing rebounds with authority. Her complete game, encompassing scoring, rebounding, defense, and often excellent passing for a big, solidifies her status as a versatile and dominant force at the center position.     [player_tooltip player_id='588900' first='Tora' last='Savoy'] is an elite inside scorer who truly dominates the paint at the center position. Her effectiveness close to the basket is exceptional, marked by a combination of refined footwork, powerful post moves, and a soft touch around the rim. She consistently finds ways to establish deep post position, allowing her to score efficiently through contact or over defenders.   What makes Tora stand out as an elite interior threat is her ability to consistently convert high-percentage shots, often drawing fouls in the process. She possesses a natural feel for attacking the basket, utilizing an array of spins, drop steps, and up-and-unders to score at will against virtually any defender. Her presence in the paint is a constant offensive anchor, demanding double teams and opening up opportunities for her teammates.     [player_tooltip player_id='947900' first='Bella' last='Hammond'] is an exceptional talent, distinguishing herself as an elite defender and rebounder. On the defensive end, she combines relentless effort with sharp instincts, consistently disrupting opposing offenses. Whether she's locking down individual assignments, anticipating passing lanes for steals, or providing crucial help defense, Bella's presence significantly elevates her team's defensive intensity and effectiveness.   Her impact on the glass is equally profound. Bella is an elite rebounder, possessing the strength, positioning, and relentless motor to dominate both the offensive and defensive boards. She consistently secures possessions, limits second-chance opportunities for opponents, and creates extra scoring chances for her team. This dual threat of stifling defense and dominant rebounding makes her an invaluable and highly impactful player on the court.     Kiya Redman is a prime example of a modern face-up 5. Unlike traditional centers who primarily operate with their back to the basket, Kiya excels at receiving the ball, turning to face her defender, and surveying the court. This unique offensive skill set allows her to be a multi-dimensional threat from the high post or even the perimeter.   Her ability to face up opens up a variety of options: she can knock down jump shots, utilize a quick first step to drive past slower defenders, or showcase her court vision by dishing out pinpoint passes to cutting teammates. This versatility makes her a challenging matchup for any opposing center, forcing defenses to adapt and guarding her away from the rim.

The players listed have significantly increased their stock through their amazing play at the small forward position this AAU season. Their consistent high-level performance has caught the attention of scouts and evaluators, cementing their status as rising talents