Why not drop a quick “Players on the rise in each class” podcast episode during a slow week?
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Podcast Show Notes: Mid-Season Breakout Performers
Date: December 22, 2025
Host: Adam Peek
Episode Summary
A mid-season deep dive into each graduation class to highlight the players climbing the rankings. From ACC-bound seniors to high-impact freshmen, we break down the film and stats of Utah’s rising prospects.
Class of 2026 (Seniors)
Anthony Felesi (Utah Prep): The #1 ranked junior and Pittsburgh commit. He is currently leading the EYBL Scholastic league in scoring.
Junior County (Wasatch Academy): A long-time elite talent; the host highlights watching him excel since his “Youngbloods” days.
Gabriel Sularski (Layton Christian): Rising into the top 51. An elite playmaker praised for his ability to get into the lane and compete defensively.
Joost Dalgaard (Layton Christian): A key piece of the undefeated (10-0) LCA squad.
Emilis Zibuda (Layton Christian): Noted for his length, high IQ, and one of the most compact, quick-release shots in the state.
Deng Deng (Juan Diego Catholic): The 6’10” riser has significantly expanded his game with a reliable outside shot.
Makai Allen (Provo): A Snow College commit who recently exploded for 39 points against Morgan.
Bracken Saunders (Morgan): Recognized for his 37-point outing in the same matchup against Provo.
Jordan Oberholtzer (Highland): Highlighted for playing with a necessary “edge” and tenacity that Coach Jones allows him to showcase.
Aymen Ismail (Judge Memorial): A CSU-Pueblo commit carrying a heavy scoring load due to local roster injuries.
Mason Ford (Timpview): An elite shooter with multiple 20-25 point games.
Will Openshaw & Dean Rueckert (Timpview): The dominant bigs who benefit from the spacing Ford provides.
Cameron Brower (Davis): Highlighted as a high-level performer on a top team who deserves more attention from college coaches.
Luke Rice (Park City): A strong, physical guard averaging ~25 PPG.
Itay Lustgarten (Cottonwood): A defensive menace and “true point guard” facilitating for teammates Malei Atem, Tengis Bayasgalan, and Luka Cecez.
Class of 2027 (Juniors)
Mana Wintana (Wasatch Academy): The new #1 in the class2. A transfer who earned his minutes through sheer tenacity—described as an absolute “dog” on the floor.
Crew Fotheringham (Lone Peak): The former #1 who remains an elite national-level prospect.
Roman Avdejev (Layton Christian): A major riser now firmly entrenched in the top 5.
Malakai Tobler (Farmington): A 5’10” point guard who plays much taller due to elite lateral and vertical speed.
Colton Hoenigman (Syracuse): A surprise riser helping lead a strong Syracuse program.
Gage VanBrocklin & Gus VanBrocklin (2026 Davis): Both brothers are playing major minutes with a competitive edge for the Darts.
Class of 2028 (Sophomores)
Jordan Horsley (Mountain Ridge): A skilled player with great size and handle who “shoots the lights out”.
Jack Layton (Farmington): A key contributor to the Phoenix team’s success.
Kalou Ruot (Judge Memorial): Averaging a double-double at 6’7”. The host predicts he could be the best big man in the class as he adds strength.
Drew Faddis (West Field): A 6’7” sophomore riser with excellent footwork in the paint.
Jrue Miller (Rowland Hall): A high-volume scorer who averaged 40+ PPG early this season.
Kobe Ross (American Leadership Academy): Younger brother of Jordan Ross; recently led ALA to a massive win over North Summit.
Class of 2029 (Freshman)
Ty Kozlowski (Corner Canyon): A rising talent to watch in the Chargers’ system.
Xavier Mulford (Herriman): A freshman already making an impact at the varsity level.
Ben Wanner (Intermountain Christian): Dropped 37 points against Ben Lomond; a high-level athlete.
Ryan Steiger (Lone Peak): Highlighted as a freshman name to watch for the Knights.
Brayden James (Bingham): Noted for earning rotation minutes on a deep, high-level Bingham team.
Kiir Naang (Anthem Prep): The current #1 ranked freshman in the state, standing at 6’9”.
Closing Message
“If you are playing varsity basketball at any level... you are in the top 10% of anyone who has ever played youth basketball. Take a minute to reflect and be grateful for your journey.”
