2026’s Ready To Climb The Ranks

Jacob Lanier: Lanier made a jump to #46 in our 2026 rankings and he continues to be a steady two-way producer regardless of the setting. The long and rangy athlete is a switchable defender who has the versatility to guard multiple positions. He’s a quick, rip-through slasher that leverages long strides to gain ground quickly when attacking the rim against a tilted defense. Lanier had made strides as a shooter and he continues to sharpen his handle. The Arkansas native holds offers from Arizona State, TCU, Texas Tech, & more already.  

Dakari Spear: Spear is a toolsy guard out of Texas who made another bump to #76 in the 2026 rankings in their latest update. He’s a productive slasher who has the handle & speed to attack closeouts, plus he has the touch to finish in the lane through traffic. He’s a reliable spot-up shooting threat whose comfortable scoring out on the perimeter as well. Defensively, Spear’s blend of size, length, & instincts makes him highly disruptive when guarding the ball. There’s a lot to like long-term here given the developing skill, physical tools, & family genetics.