ESPN 2027 Basketball Rankings: Top 30 High School Prospects to Watch
The ESPN 2027 Basketball Rankings are more than just a list of names they are an early glimpse into the future of basketball. This comprehensive evaluation of the nation’s top high school players gives college coaches, NBA scouts, and basketball fans insight into who could shape the game in the next decade.
By identifying elite talent while many of these athletes are still underclassmen, ESPN’s rankings influence recruiting strategies, scholarship offers, and even grassroots basketball development. For fans, the list offers a preview of future NCAA stars and potential NBA lottery picks.
How Does ESPN Evaluate Players in the Class of 2027?
ESPN’s scouting process combines live evaluations, game footage, and advanced metrics. Analysts attend high school games, AAU tournaments, and elite showcases to assess each player’s current skill level and long-term potential.
The evaluation factors include:
- Skill set: Shooting accuracy, ball handling, passing vision, and defensive ability.
- Physical tools: Height, wingspan, athleticism, and strength relative to position.
- Basketball IQ: Decision-making, situational awareness, and adaptability.
- Competitive level: Quality of high school program and AAU circuit.
- Growth potential: Projected improvement over the next four years.
By balancing current performance with developmental ceiling, ESPN ensures the Class of 2027 rankings remain dynamic and accurate.
Who Are the Top 30 Players in the ESPN 2027 Rankings?
The top 30 features an impressive mix of athleticism, skill, and positional diversity. Each player has demonstrated dominance in high school competition and on the national travel circuit.
| Rank | Player | Position | School |
| 1 | Marcus Spears Jr. | PF | Dynamic Prep |
| 2 | Bruce Branch III | SF | Prolific Prep |
| 3 | Paul Osaruyi | PF | CIA Bella Vista Prep |
| 4 | C.J. Rosser | PF | Southeastern Prep Academy |
| 5 | Obinna Ekezie | C | Southeastern Prep Academy |
| 6 | Ryan Hampton | SF | Dynamic Prep |
| 7 | Jordan Page | SF | Broughton High School |
| 8 | Moussa Kamissoko | PF | Long Island Lutheran High School |
| 9 | Beckham Black | PG | Southeastern Prep Academy |
| 10 | L.J. Smith | SG | Lincolnton High School |
| 11 | Nasir Anderson | PG | Prolific Prep |
| 12 | Gabe Nesmith | SG | Utah Prep |
| 13 | Isaiah Hill | C | Pike High School |
| 14 | Dawson Battie | PF | Saint Mark’s School |
| 15 | Lincoln Cosby | PF | Montverde Academy |
| 16 | Jeremy Jenkins | PF | Riviera Prep |
| 17 | Malachi Jordan | SF | Dream City Christian |
| 18 | Ahmad Hudson | PF | Ruston High School |
| 19 | Jaylan Mitchell | SF | SPIRE Institute |
| 20 | Darius Wabbington | C | Sunnyslope High School |
| 21 | Cayden Daughtry | PG | Calvary Christian Academy |
| 22 | Devin Cleveland | SG | La Lumiere School |
| 23 | Davion Thompson | SG | Link Academy |
| 24 | King Gibson | PG | SPIRE Institute |
| 25 | Munir Greig | SF | Archbishop Carroll High School |
| 26 | Demarcus Henry | SF | AZ Compass Prep |
| 27 | Josh Leonard | SF | Wilson High School |
| 28 | Dooney Johnson | SF | Juneau High School |
| 29 | Jarvis Hayes | SG | Woodward Academy |
| 30 | O’Neal Delancy | SG | Montverde Academy |
Which Rising Prospects Could Break into the Top 10?
Several players just outside the top 10 are making strong cases for a rankings jump. For example:
- Nasir Anderson (No. 11, PG, Prolific Prep): A lightning-fast guard with elite court vision, Anderson has become a standout in the Adidas 3SSB circuit.
- Isaiah Hill (No. 13, C, Pike High School): At 6’8” with a strong post presence, Hill dominates the boards and alters shots in the paint.
- Lincoln Cosby (No. 15, PF, Montverde Academy): Known for his smooth mid-range game and shot-blocking ability.
These rising stars could move up after the summer showcase season, where matchups against other top recruits will test their skills.
How Does the Class of 2027 Compare to Past Recruiting Classes?
Compared to the 2025 and 2026 classes, the 2027 group boasts deeper talent at the forward positions. There’s a noticeable increase in versatile “positionless” players who can score inside and stretch the floor with shooting.
While 2025 had several dominant centers, the 2027 class leans heavily on athletic forwards who can switch defensively and create mismatches offensively a style increasingly favored in both college and pro basketball.
Which Colleges Are Targeting the Class of 2027 Early?
Although NCAA recruiting rules limit official contact until later, interest in this class is already intense.
- Kansas has been linked to multiple top-20 prospects, especially frontcourt players like Marcus Spears Jr. and Obinna Ekezie.
- Duke is keeping close tabs on guards like Beckham Black and Nasir Anderson.
- Kentucky has reportedly scouted Bruce Branch III in multiple showcase events.
Unofficial visits, summer camps, and AAU events will give these programs more opportunities to connect with the 2027 stars.
Who in the 2027 Class Has the Highest NBA Potential?
Scouts believe several players could be early NBA draft candidates:
- Marcus Spears Jr: A power forward with elite athleticism and two-way impact.
- Paul Osaruyi: At 6’9”, he has the frame and mobility to be an NBA-level stretch big.
- Bruce Branch III: A scoring wing with advanced footwork and a polished shooting stroke.
If these players continue their development and adapt to higher levels of competition, they could be one-and-done prospects at the college level.
Where Can Fans See the Full ESPN 2027 Basketball Rankings?
While the top 10 grabs headlines, ESPN’s full top 60 list provides a broader look at the depth of talent in the class. From established prep powerhouses like Montverde Academy and Prolific Prep to public school standouts, the rankings highlight players from across the country.
You can view the complete list on ESPN’s official recruiting database, which includes player grades, scouting reports, and highlight videos.
How Can Fans Keep Track of These High School Basketball Stars?
Fans can follow the Class of 2027 through multiple channels:
- ESPN Recruiting: Regularly updated rankings and player profiles.
- 247Sports & Rivals: Additional scouting and recruiting predictions.
- AAU Circuits: Nike EYBL, Adidas 3SSB, and Under Armour Next feature most top-ranked prospects.
- High School Live Streams: Platforms like NFHS Network and ESPN+ carry key matchups.
What Can We Expect from the Class of 2027 Going Forward?
With several years before they step onto a college court, the Class of 2027 has time to refine their games. Expect rankings to shift as late bloomers emerge and early stars prove themselves against tougher competition. The combination of athleticism, skill, and versatility suggests this group could produce multiple NBA-caliber players.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often are the ESPN 2027 basketball rankings updated?
ESPN updates its rankings several times a year, typically after major tournaments and showcase events.
Who is currently ranked No. 1 in the class?
Marcus Spears Jr., a 6’7” power forward from Dynamic Prep in Plano, Texas, holds the top spot.
Are all top 2027 prospects playing at prep schools?
Not all — while many attend elite prep programs, several stars play for traditional public high schools.
Which AAU events influence rankings the most?
The Nike EYBL, Adidas 3SSB, and Under Armour Next circuits are key scouting grounds for ESPN analysts.
Can rankings change dramatically over time?
Yes, player development, injuries, and performance in big games can significantly impact rankings.
Are there any committed players yet in the 2027 class?
Most top-ranked players remain uncommitted, but some have received multiple Division I offers.
How can younger players get noticed by ESPN scouts?
Consistent high-level play in competitive circuits and standout performances in national showcases draw attention.
