6’0 ’27 Brayden Gatling (SW15H Elite)
It doesn’t take long to recognize Gatling as a leader for SW15H Elite’s 2027 group. Although they’ve clearly grown as a collective, he’s simply the guy that makes them go. Gatling is a natural leader whose combination of IQ, toughness, and competitiveness allows him to set the tone in a variety of different ways. He possesses the necessary quickness and ball-handling to consistently break down opponents, touch the paint, and finish or set up others. Gatling is a quality finisher with craftiness and body control. He’s a capable shooting threat, but is at his best when attacking the basket. He’s a reliable defender at the point of attack and rebounds effectively for his size/position.
5’8 ’27 Zarion Hobbs (7th Nation Warriors)
Given how much he does to stand out for this group, it’s genuinely shocking that more people aren’t talking about Hobbs. His ability to control a game from the point guard position is undeniably impressive. Hobbs is a smart, quick, well-rounded floor general who offers a terrific balance between scoring, defense, and playmaking. He picks his spots from all three levels, but prioritizes getting others involved. Hobbs plays with tremendous pace and doesn’t allow himself to get sped up by defenders. Add in his decision-making, and it’s easy to see how he sets the tone for this group.
6’2 ’26 Chaise Smith (East Carolina Elite)
Easily one of the most impressive performers on display, Smith just makes the game look easy. While people seem to be primarily drawn to his ability to score the ball, his playmaking instincts are arguably the most notable part of his identity. Although he is a quick-twitch athlete with terrific feel and offensive polish, Smith is far more than just a scorer. He truly understands how to shift defenses, create openings for others, and make the corresponding pass. Smith generates clean looks for himself with such ease that he probably could hunt shots if he wanted, but his balance was quite refreshing. He’s also a willing rebounder and quality defender who forces turnovers at a strong rate. It’s easy to see why Smith is one of the better players and prospects in North Carolina’s Class of 2026.
6’4 ’26 Dane Cassada (CP3 EYCL)
Given how many games these kids play nowadays, production can easily get overlooked. However, it’s somewhat impossible to ignore the unbelievably consistent way that Cassada produces. He’s such a steady, reliable player who knows exactly how and when to assert himself. Cassada is a terrific passer, scorer, and overall offensive player who plays with phenomenal poise. He’s a knockdown shooter who utilizes the threat of his scoring to regularly generate opportunities for others. Cassada makes the right pass, works effectively without the ball, and finds ways to make his presence felt as a defender and rebounder. It’s easy to appreciate everything he brings to this team.
5’8 ’28 Bobby Montgomery (Team Charlotte)
Although Montgomery plays up with Team Charlotte 2027, it would be difficult to identify from watching him play. His feel and confidence always seem to stand out as attributes that separate him from his peers. Montgomery clearly knows how to run a team. He possesses a tight handle, sharp vision, and the ability to score in a multitude of ways. Though he finishes well for his size, Montgomery is at his best when hitting jumpers or manipulating defenses to create for others. He displays great defensive instincts and an overall understanding of how to dictate the action—both in the half-court and open floor.