Class of 2026: Breakout Player Predictions

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>These players are recognized throughout the state for their impressive performances, but this year promises to be particularly significant as they prepare to lead their teams on deep playoff runs. Their skills have fully matured, and each is poised for a breakout season. All of them currently hold offers to play at the next level, but this season has the potential to bring increased exposure and further opportunities for each player</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["489578"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68cc6d6c59f9c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"> Khia has embraced her role and supported her upperclassmen, experiencing the pinnacle of success as a state champion. Each year, her growth has been evident, and last year she emerged as the primary playmaker at Parkway. As the point guard, she confidently took and made open shots, handled full-court pressure with composure, and consistently made intelligent decisions that contribute to winning – qualities that coaches highly value at the next level. What distinguishes Thomas is her ability to control the tempo of the game and maintain a calm demeanor under pressure. She recently received an offer to play at the next level, and more opportunities are certain to follow. Coaches seeking a high-IQ guard who plays with poise should take a close look at Thomas</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["489580"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68cc6d6c5a04d"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Jefferson has been a leader at Minden since her freshman season, and each year she demonstrably noticeably stronger, more athletic, more skilled, and more productive. She has focused on refining her ball-handling, empowering her to create her own scoring opportunities. A high-energy competitor, she is capable of securing 20 rebounds on any given night. She displays a relentless tenacity on the court, never taking a play off. While she excels operating in the post and dominating the offensive glass, she is also exceptional in transition. Her potential at the next level is evident due to her size and athletic attributes, which are highly coveted by college coaches. Under Jefferson's leadership, Minden has the opportunity to upset some rivals this upcoming season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["744493"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68cc6d6c5a0da"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Felton is well-regarded in North Louisiana for her ability to transform a game with her defensive prowess. To say she's aggressive is a gross understatement. Her specialty lies in making opposing guards profoundly uncomfortable; she pressures the opposition relentlessly, becoming a constant irritant from whistle to whistle. Beyond her exceptional defense, she generates turnovers, which leads to another crucial aspect of her game: her brilliance in the open court and in one-on-one situations. She is a powerful finisher who embraces the physicality of offensive play. Felton is an ideal fit for any coach seeking a tenacious, never-quit player who will inject intensity into both games and practices.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["655014"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68cc6d6c5a161"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Coaches seeking a tall guard with exceptional shooting ability need look no further than Smith. She has been a key contributor to each championship run, consistently stepping up and knocking down timely shots. While her role has been primarily complementary on the stacked Wossman roster, this season she will be tasked with carrying a significant portion of the offensive load, as well as handling ball-handling responsibilities. Smith undoubtedly possesses the skill set to excel in these expanded roles, providing coaches with a glimpse of her multifaceted abilities beyond what she has previously demonstrated. A long guard with a high basketball IQ, she maintains a focused demeanor on the court while exhibiting aggressive play and constant movement towards the ball. Smith just may be the steal of the 2026 class.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["947901"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68cc6d6c5a21f"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Hunter has patiently developed and lead her Richwood team for four years. Every year she comes back with added skill that translates in games. She has been the driving force in every basketball victory at Richwood and she has done it all with basketball grace. Hunter is a coaches dream in that she possesses the size, skill, athleticism, personality and leadership that coaches want in their program. I anicipate her transition to the college game will be seamless because she is skilled equally in all facets of the game. She shoots, rebounds, defends, leads, assists and much more. She can do it alland does it all with her team in mind. She is a consummate competitor that always plays to win. Hunter has been offered and will play collegiate level basketball.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":"","_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68cc6d6c5a2b6"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>THis concludes part two, but there are plenty more players that deserve a spot light heading into the season. With a little bit more than 30 days before everything starts there is plenty of talent to be highlighted. Stay locked in for the next batch of talented players dropping soon. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->