The Class of 2026 continues to showcase a deep pool of talent, and several players have already proven themselves as college-worthy prospects. These are athletes who consistently impact winning, bring translatable skills, and display the intangibles that coaches value at the next level. From their production on the floor to their work ethic and competitive drive, these players embody what programs look for when building future rosters. As recruitment heats up, college coaches would be wise to keep these names firmly on their radar.
2026 6’5 Neal Swindell (Caldwell Academy)
Swindell has shown time after time that he can be an impact player on the court, stepping up big last year and leading on several occasions, to help lead Caldwell Academy to a state title. This year should be no different and possibly a bigger opportunity to showcase his game with key guys now gone from the program. But when talking about his game, he is one who can impact the game in a variety of ways, being a strong downhill scorer that can finish through contact and at the rim as well as knock down open shots. He contributes in a variety of ways, making unselfish plays, rebounding, defending, and just playing with a high motor. Swindell has proven himself to be a sneaky prospect that college programs should look at.
2026 6’4 Dacen Petty (Christ School)
Petty is a player who has consistently found ways to contribute to his team’s success. He has shown that he can be a go-to option as a scorer, especially early on in his high school career. But he was a tremendous complementary player for Christ School last year and this summer for Upward Stars, especially with his ability to score and knock down shots from the perimeter, create off the bounce, facilitate, and bring a well-rounded feel to the court. Petty has proven that he can be a valuable contributor at the next level.
2026 6’3 Martin Giant (Greensboro Day)
Giant is one that I believe goes a bit under the radar with what he provides. He is a leader for the Bengals and sets the tone on either side of the ball. The 6’3 guard is highly productive in so many areas on the court, as he brings a versatile game that finds ways to impact the game. He can be a high motor offensive option that attacks and finishes strong, getting paint touches and finishing at the rim, as well as a guard that can get to his spots. He also does a great job in playing with a high motor on the defensive end, being physical and active, especially along the perimeter. Giant is a player who can come into a program and make an impact early on.
2026 6’3 Dashaun McKoy (Harrells Christian)
McKoy, who is the cousin of Antonio McKoy, is another underrated guard who has developed and shown he can help a team at the next level. His athleticism is something that quickly catches your attention, finishing at the rim along with his overall energy. McKoy can finish at the rim and create well for himself, playing with a high motor. He brings that same energy to the defensive side, looking to prove to everyone, be physical and be a quality contributor on the glass. McKoy has shown that he can be a quality utility-type player for a program.