The conversation around Sadler changed after his 29-point game at the Nike Hoop Summit. For a 6’0″ guard, he still has to show scouts that his shooting is on track to be a surefire plus, but Sadler’s ability to create advantages, get to spots, set the table and finish with improvisation/craft looks special.

2. Tyler Tanner (Vanderbilt)

Unless we see a surplus of surprise breakouts, Tanner should have a clearer path to the first round in 2027. The only realistic way to ease concerns over his 167-pound frame will be to raise his shotmaking to nuclear levels, considering scouts still hesitated while he made 1.7 threes, excelled as a finisher, produced a strong assist-to-turnover ratio and put up outlier small-guard numbers like 18 dunks and 12 blocks. Interest in Tanner will ultimately revolve around his ability to create advantages, rim pressure and defensive breakdowns.

3. Nigel James (Marquette)

Powerful, explosive and shifty, James creates rim pressure and highlights around the rim. He’s also a true playmaker who’ll use his gravity and vision to set up teammates. He’ll draw more NBA attention if he’s able to take a step forward with his shotmaking, particularly with his pull-up and floater. He did make 45.8 percent of his catch-and-shoot attempts.

4. Deron Rippey Jr. (Duke)

Rippey may become more of a 2028 draft prospect with Caleb Foster, Cayden Boozer and John Blackwell ahead of him on Duke’s depth chart. His explosiveness, advantage creation and playmaking are still exciting long-term, while his energy and defense should also help him earn freshman minutes. How convincing his shooting and overall efficiency look this season will likely determine whether NBA teams are willing to buy right away in 2027.

5. Jeremy Fears Jr. (Michigan State)

Fears just had one of the most productive playmaking seasons on record, joining four others (including Ja Morant and Kris Dunn) to register a 50.0 assist percentage. There is still hesitation from scouts around the combination of limited size, weak finishing and low-volume three-point shooting. That said, he has become so advanced running offense, making decisions and creating for others while still posing a threat with his catch-and-shoot stroke and pull-up.