Notable 2026s to Watch In July

It's July, and we're entering the final stretch of the AAU season with just two live periods remaining. This is when recruiting hits its peak, giving college coaches a final in-person opportunity to evaluate potential recruits. It's also a time to see the results of the work these prospects have put in over the spring. Here's a look at some rising seniors to put on your radar.    Sayler had a magnificent junior season, averaging 19.6 points and 7.4 rebounds per game while shooting 83% from the free-throw line. She led Calloway County to a 28-5 record and a trip to the regional championship game. Along the way, she reached 2,000 career points and 1,000 career rebounds and was named to the All-State Third Team. Sayler brings size and a versatile skill set to the floor, with the ability to score from the perimeter or dominate in the post. She has exquisite footwork, polished post moves, and is a tremendous rebounder for her position. She's also known for her strong work ethic and high character qualities. (Photo Above)   AAU Team: [program_tooltip program_id='712592' first='Kentucky' last='Premier'] 17U     Macy is a multi-sport standout at Rockcastle County who made a major impact on the hardwood this past season. She averaged 16.6 points per game and led the Lady Rockets in rebounding with 7.2 boards, playing a key role in their 25-win season, district title, and regional championship game appearance. A versatile guard/wing, Macy has a nice blend of size, length, and athleticism that allows her to contribute on both ends. She's an efficient mid-range and three-point shooter, finishes well through contact, battles on the boards, and has excellent timing as a shot-blocker. Macy also brings leadership and a competitive edge to the floor.   AAU Team: Arctic Rush     In her junior season, Anna led Crittenden County with 14.5 points and 6.8 rebounds per game, helping guide the team to a district title and a run to the regional championship game. A left-handed guard with good positional size, she has the ability to create her own shot and score from all three levels. Anna also does a solid job of getting her teammates involved and provides serviceable defense on the other end.   AAU Team: [program_tooltip program_id='712592' first='Kentucky' last='Premier'] E40 2026     Hadley averaged 11.6 points in 14 games during her junior season after returning from injury. She's a knockdown shooter from deep and a skilled ball handler and passer with superb court vision. As a sophomore, Hadley was the best 3-point shooter in the state, showcasing her lethal outside shooting ability. Her combination of scoring, playmaking, and basketball IQ makes her a major threat on the floor.   AAU Team: [program_tooltip program_id='712782' first='Richmond' last='Heat'] 2026     Hayley was the anchor for a Simon Kenton team that finished atop the 8th Region with a 26-5 record, claiming both the district and regional championships en route to a state tournament appearance. Hayley is a workhorse on the boards, strong finisher around the basket, a capable jump shooter, and brings valuable versatility on the defensive end with her ability to guard multiple positions. She averaged 9.4 points and 6.5 rebounds per game as a junior.   AAU Team: Next Level 17U 3SSB     Addy brings a team-first mentality and competes with maximum effort every time she steps on the floor. She's gritty, tough, and full of the intangibles that don't always show up on the stat sheet. Addy can score when needed, create plays for her teammates, and is a hard-nosed defender who knows how to come up with steals and force turnovers. She averaged 6.3 points and 2.2 rebounds for Henderson County, the top team in Region 2, which captured both the district and regional titles and made a deep run in the state tournament.   AAU Team: [program_tooltip program_id='712592' first='Kentucky' last='Premier'] E40 2026

It's July, and we're entering the final stretch of the AAU season with just two live periods remaining. This is when recruiting hits its peak, giving college coaches a final in-person opportunity to evaluate potential recruits. It's also a time to see the results of the work these prospects have put in over the spring. Here's a look at some rising seniors to put on your radar.