Every rankings release brings excitement, debate, and discovery—and within the latest Phenom Hoops 2026 Rankings, there are several names tucked between spots No. 30–40 that deserve a closer look. These players may not yet carry the same buzz as those at the top, but their production, skillsets, and long-term potential make them true hidden gems in this class. From versatile scorers to impact defenders and high-IQ playmakers, these prospects are quietly building résumés that college coaches will want to track closely in the coming months.
2026 6’4 Martin Giant (Greensboro Day)
Greensboro Day is a team that has a lot of talent on the roster, as we recently wrote about and broke down what we saw on the court in an open gym. But if this team wants to make a run at another talent, Marty Giant is going to be one of the biggest pieces on the team this year. Giant is a difference-maker on the court, displaying leadership and development as a prospect. He does what is needed on the court for his team, and his impact on both sides of the ball can’t be denied. Giant is a strong driver and finisher; he can be a playmaker for others, as well as play off the ball and knock down shots. And his impact and energy on the defensive end is contagious, as he proves to bring production on the court.
2026 5’11 Nick Arnold (Davidson Day)
Absolutely love what Arnold brings to the table, and he is one of the toughest guards in North Carolina, especially for his size. He shows tremendous poise and control, competes on both sides of the ball, understands how to lead an offense, and also produces as a scoring option on the court. Arnold’s ability to control the game, be that point guard to lead, and be a playmaker for himself and others is what makes him such a hidden gem. He embraces being physical and competes on either side of the ball, finding ways to create and get inside the lane, knock down shots, or make the right decision to set up others. Furthermore, he is an underrated defender on the ball, creating havoc for opponents throughout.
2026 6’4 Kellum Brown (New Hanover)
I believe Brown is going to have a wake-up call for everyone here in North Carolina, especially with the talent that was lost from last year’s team. But I don’t see a dip at all with this program, as Brown will now become a big leader and showcase his versatility as a prospect. At 6’4/6’5, Brown is able to flourish in a variety of roles on the court, using his size and length to his advantage. He does a great job in being able to create for himself from multiple levels, scoring off the dribble, knocking down mid-range jumpers, or expanding his game out to the 3-pt line. He can defend and play multiple positions on the court as well, showing that he can be an effective option no matter where you put him. I expect Brown to flourish even more this upcoming season, being one of the go-to options for New Hanover as they look to compete for a state title.
2026 6’11 Prince Nwokemodo (FCDS)
Size certainly matters in this sport, and Nwokemodo brings that to the table. At 6’11, this is a young man who shows promise and potential in controlling the paint and has continued to get better over the years, watching him. He is moving better, developing better as an offensive weapon, he runs the floor well, and is a rim protector, something that college programs are always looking for. Now playing at FCDS, Nwokemodo should only continue to get better and stronger, as there is still untapped potential left in his game. And again, finding players listed at 6’11 are hard to come by.
2026 6’4 Dane Cassada (Moravian Prep)
I’m eager to see what Cassada will be able to show in a high-octane offense like Moravian Prep, but based on solely what we have seen over the high school years and summer, Cassada has continued to show that he can produce and be a strong offensive force. He has good size and a strong frame that allows him to operate and be effective from several areas. Cassada has shown that he has improved and can be a big threat from behind the arc, knocking down shots with range but also use his body well to create, finish through contact, or make the right decision in finding his teammates. He brings good value to the table and could be a sneaky hidden gem for a program at the next level.