The Phenom Tip-Off featured an impressive collection of forwards and bigs, each bringing their own blend of size, skill, and impact to the floor. From dominant rim protectors to versatile scorers and high-motor rebounders, the frontcourt talent was on full display throughout the event. These players controlled the paint, finished plays, stretched the floor, and anchored their teams on both ends. Here are Patrick O’Brien’s top forwards and bigs who stood out and made their presence felt all weekend long.
2026 Cody Peck (Davidson Day)
Peck brings a rare blend of size, fluidity, and explosiveness at 6’10. He consistently pressured the rim—whether cutting, running the floor, or finishing in transition—and used his mobility to create matchup problems. Defensively, he’s extremely versatile, able to guard multiple positions and switch comfortably across the lineup. Peck’s combination of tools, athleticism, and two-way impact gives him tremendous long-term upside.
2026 Elhadji Diallo (Combine Academy)
Diallo continues to impress with his steady, reliable production. He moves well without the ball, routinely finding gaps in the defense, while also showing the ability to create off the bounce and use his strong frame to his advantage. Diallo scores with touch from multiple areas on the floor and has been remarkably consistent to start the season, making him a key piece for Combine.
2026 Will Stevens (Davidson Day)
Stevens continues to flash impressive long-term potential as he develops into his future role at Clemson. The fluid 2026 big man alters the game defensively with his elite rim-protecting ability and timing. Offensively, he shows soft touch around the basket and growing confidence stretching the floor from deep. Stevens’ combination of mobility, shot-blocking, and inside-out scoring tools makes him one of the top bigs in the country with potential.
2027 Jayon Connor (FCDS)
Connor has opened the season in impressive fashion, consistently delivering high-level production. He uses his mobility and downhill attacking ability to pressure defenses, excels in transition, and finishes well around the rim. Connor stays active on the glass and impacts the game with his energy on both ends. His versatility and relentless approach make him a major difference-maker for FCDS.
2027 Zeke Battier (Providence Day)
Battier showed a ton of promising flashes on both ends of the court. The 6’7 wing continues to stand out as an exceptional shooter, now pairing his perimeter touch with greater assertiveness and physicality. Defensively, he impressed with his timing and positioning as a shot-blocker, protecting the rim and altering plays. Battier’s blend of size, shooting, and defensive instincts gives him notable upside moving forward.