OTR Hoops: Rising Stars of the South – 5 Players Making Noise on the Hardwood – July 15, 2025

The future of basketball is in great hands. Across the Southeast and beyond, a new wave of young talent is emerging with skills, IQ, and athleticism that are projected well to the next level. From stretch forwards to shifty guards, these players are showcasing why they deserve attention from college programs and basketball scouts alike. Let’s take a closer look at five rising prospects who’ve recently stood out with their play, leadership, and potential.

By: Robert Noord

Callen Tollestrup – 2026 | Stretch Forward

Standing at 6’8”, Callen Tollestrup is already playing at the college level and showing exactly why he belongs there. A prototypical stretch forward, Tollestrup has the size, skill, and basketball IQ to be a consistent offensive weapon. His ability to score from various areas on the court—including the mid-post and while attacking closeouts—makes him a matchup nightmare for defenders.

What makes Tollestrup even more valuable is his growth on the defensive end. He’s become a reliable rim protector and knows how to wall up without fouling. His timing, positioning, and communication on that end of the floor suggest he’s been putting in serious work behind the scenes. Tollestrup plays with maturity, and his development as a two-way forward should make him a key name to watch heading into the 2026 season.

Jordan Quince – 2026 | Florida Pro | X: Jordan Quince

Athleticism, shot-making, and leadership—Jordan Quince checks every box. A gifted player who thrives in transition, Quince is nearly unstoppable when he’s pushing the pace. But he’s far from a one-dimensional athlete. His three-level scoring ability makes him a dangerous half-court option as well. Whether it’s knocking down deep threes, pulling up in the midrange, or slashing to the basket, Quince finds a way to put the ball in the hoop.

What separates Quince from other scorers is his defensive presence. He understands how to anchor a defense, communicates effectively, and doesn’t take plays off. His vocal leadership on defense and ability to guard multiple positions give his team a huge advantage. Playing with Florida Pro, Quince has continued to show that he’s not just a scorer, but a leader and difference-maker on both ends of the floor.

Eston McDow – 2027 | Hoop Atlanta Harpring | @estonmcdow15

Few shooters in the 2027 class have the range and confidence that Eston McDow displays. A knockdown shooter with NBA-range three-point ability, McDow has turned heads with his shot-making ability. But what makes him special is his off-ball movement. He cuts hard, sets solid screens, and constantly relocates to keep defenders chasing him.

McDow understands how to operate in a system. His high basketball IQ allows him to make the right plays, even when the ball isn’t in his hands. That ability to play within a team structure makes him valuable to any squad. Expect McDow to keep rising as he continues to add more to his game and grow into one of the most lethal shooters in the Southeast.

Caden Earl – 2027 | Team Person | @cadenearl10

Poise, leadership, and creativity define Caden Earl’s game. The crafty point guard has become a joy to watch thanks to his steady control of the game and ability to run a team. Earl made serious strides in his playmaking, constantly setting up his teammates and making clutch plays down the stretch. His ability to stay composed in tight situations gives him an edge over other guards his age.

What makes Earl stand out is his highlight-worthy flair. He knows when to make the flashy pass, how to freeze defenders with his handle, and when to take over offensively. His feel for the game is mature beyond his years, and as he continues to develop physically, there’s no doubt he’ll be one of the top floor generals in the 2027 class.

Jayden Lassiter – 2028 | Team South Carolina | @_jayywitdaashifts

If you like tough shot-making and confident ball-handlers, then Jayden Lassiter is your guy. The young guard from Team South Carolina has already developed a reputation for his fearless approach and ability to create his own shot. Lassiter is a creative scorer who can get hot in a hurry, regularly connecting on difficult, contested jumpers that most players wouldn’t dare take.

But it’s not just his skill with the ball that makes him special—it’s his mentality. Lassiter plays with an edge and has a knack for drawing fouls, getting to the free throw line, and controlling tempo. For a member of the 2028 class, he’s already showing the type of aggressiveness and polish that coaches love in a lead guard. As he continues to grow and refine his game, Lassiter has the potential to become a household name in grassroots basketball.