2026 Big Shots Prep Nationals: Under the Radar Gems to Know!

Throughout an insane travel schedule, we were able to shoot down to Rock Hill, South Carolina, to check out the Big Shots Prep Nationals. A loaded event with teams from all over the country, Kevin Schneider and his staff assembled a group that was honestly too talented to truly evaluate during the sessions I attended.

The event was held at the gorgeous Rock Hill Sports and Event Center. Competitive games were played all day, under-the-radar prospects were found, and championships were won. Big Shots alumni include Ja Morant, Bam Adebayo, Zion Williamson, Mac McClung, and more. The 2026 Big Shots Prep Nationals will undoubtedly provide more information on who might join them in the league.

Having already taken a look at the event’s top overall performers, which included 2028 prospects Dylan Betts and Hendrik Pertel as well as the event’s top underclassmen, here are a few names that you may not know now, but will in the future.

Taj Saragba, 6’8, PF, Huntington Prep (West Virginia), 2027

An absolute joy to watch, Taj Saragba was a straight-up man among boys in the paint for Huntington Prep at the Big Shots Prep Nationals. The lefty thrived playing through contact, used his broad shoulders on both ends of the floor, and changed the game with his motor defensively.

Photos courtesy of David Walker

Saragba’s energy and level of productivity will make the Atlanta product one to watch on the AAU circuit this summer.

Hugo Facorat, 7’0, PF, Legacy School of Sport and Science (Texas), 2026

One of the highest-upside senior left on the board at the Big Shots Prep Nationals, Hugo Facorat, showed a lot of intangibles that you would hope to see out of a big man in today’s game. The Frenchman has a gorgeous shot from the 3-point arc and is a rim protector. Despite his slender frame, he keeps plays alive on the offensive glass with his athleticism.

Photos courtesy of David Walker

Sure, he’s going to need to bulk up, but his raw talent and experience that he’s gained at both Zephyrhills Christian (Florida) and Overtime Elite have made him college-ready.

Bradley Floyd, 6’5, SG/SF, Winston Salem Christian (North Carolina), 2026

The key wing for Winston Salem Christian’s Big Shots Prep Nationals championship was undoubtedly Bradley Floyd. The Charlotte native changed the game on both ends with his athleticism, was an outstanding straight-line slasher, and was an elite finisher in transition.

Photos courtesy of David Walker

Heading to Austin Peay, Floyd definitely has the raw talent to develop into a steal, especially as he gains consistency with his jump shot.

Connor Teasley, 6’3, PG/SG, Next Level Academy (Georgia), 2026

One of the most productive players in the event, Connor Teasley, put up video game numbers throughout the weekend for Next Level Academy. The Atlanta product got into the paint at will, finished at all three levels, and showed the ability to play either backcourt spot when needed.

2026 Connor Teasley 6’3” Guard (Next Level Academy) Teasley has established himself as one of the South’s most prolific scorers, surpassing major career milestones with over 2,500 points and 1,000 rebounds. A proven bucket-getter, he’s erupted for multiple 40 & 50-point games. pic.twitter.com/t39bpzLzBw

— The Basketball Tribune (@TheBBallTribune) January 29, 2026

Coached by former NBA swingman and high-major assistant Chuck Person, Teasley is developing the IQ mentally to match the talent that he has on the floor.

Elton James, 6’8, PF, Winston Salem Christian (North Carolina), 2026

Elton James started off in ESPN’s Top 25, and while he may not be at that level right now, many forgot about how skilled a prospect the South Carolina native is. The Team United senior exploits mismatches, can face up off the bounce, is a killer in the mid-post, and has a reliable mid-range jumper.

Photos courtesy of David Walker

Already signed with Georgia Southern, James has the talent to make an immediate impact in the Sun Belt offensively.

Ethan Joling, 6’6, SF, IMG Academy Ascenders (Florida), 2026

It was my first time seeing Ethan Joling, but it was immediately evident why there was some buzz around him in the Midwest. The Wisconsin native plays the game at his own pace, can shoot it from three with his feet set, and isn’t afraid to mix it up in the paint.

Photos courtesy of David Walker

While he has received a number of Division I offers, he is still wide open and could be a really nice developmental wing for the late signing period.