Watching South Florida basketball evolve over the past few seasons has been nothing short of thrilling. As someone who’s spent years analyzing local talent and attending high school and AAU tournaments, I’ve come to appreciate just how much raw potential exists in this region. Tonight, though, as I reflect on the recent shocker where the Cool Smashers—a team that rarely tastes defeat—were handed a stunning loss, it’s clearer than ever that the landscape is shifting. Losses don’t come too often for the Cool Smashers, and they were dealt a shocker tonight, a reminder that even established programs can be disrupted by emerging talent. That game, by the way, saw several rising players from rival teams step up in ways that left scouts buzzing. It’s these kinds of moments that make me excited to share my picks for the top 10 rising stars in South Florida basketball you need to watch this season. These athletes aren’t just stats on a sheet; they’re game-changers who bring energy, skill, and a fresh dynamic to the court.
Let’s start with Jaylen Mitchell, a 6'5" shooting guard from Miami Prep who’s been turning heads since his sophomore year. I first saw him play in a tight playoff game last March, where he dropped 28 points and nailed a clutch three-pointer in the final seconds. His agility and court vision are exceptional—he averages around 19.2 points and 5.8 assists per game, though I’d argue his defensive reads are what set him apart. In my view, he’s the kind of player who can single-handedly shift momentum, much like what we saw in that Cool Smashers upset, where a young guard from the opposing team exploited defensive gaps. Then there’s Sofia Ramirez, a point guard from Fort Lauderdale High, who brings a finesse to the game that’s rare for someone her age. At just 17, she’s already led her team to a 22-4 record this season, and I love how she controls the tempo without forcing plays. Her stats—roughly 16.5 points and 7.3 assists per game—don’t fully capture her leadership on the floor. Watching her dissect defenses reminds me of seasoned pros, and I think she’s poised for a breakout year, especially after her performance in that recent tournament where she outshone veterans.
Another name that’s been on my radar is Marcus “MJ” Johnson, a power forward from Broward Academy. Standing at 6'8", he’s a force in the paint, but what impresses me most is his versatility; he can switch to perimeter defense and even hit the occasional three. I recall a game earlier this season where he posted a double-double with 24 points and 12 rebounds, dominating against a taller lineup. Honestly, I’d rank him higher than some of the more hyped prospects because of his work ethic—he’s often the last one off the court after practice. Similarly, Chloe Bennett, a small forward from Palm Beach Central, brings an explosive scoring ability that’s hard to ignore. She’s averaging about 20.1 points per game, and I’ve seen her take over quarters with back-to-back steals and fast breaks. Her energy is infectious, and in a region where basketball culture is growing, players like her are essential for drawing crowds and media attention. After that Cool Smashers loss, where unheralded players stepped up, it’s clear that stars like Chloe are redefining what it means to be a contender.
Moving down the list, I can’t overlook Diego Martinez, a combo guard from Hialeah High who’s been a sleeper hit in local circuits. He might not have the national recognition yet, but his handles and clutch shooting—like in that overtime win against a top-ranked team where he scored 31 points—make him a personal favorite. I’ve chatted with a few coaches who say his basketball IQ is off the charts, and I agree; he reads plays like a veteran. Then there’s Aaliyah Thompson, a center from Coral Gables, whose defensive presence is a game-changer. She averages 4.2 blocks per game, and in a recent matchup, she shut down a highly-touted offense with her rim protection. From my perspective, she’s the backbone of any team she’s on, and in a season full of surprises, her consistency is a rarity. The depth continues with Kyle Richardson, a sharpshooter from Naples, who’s hitting threes at a 42% clip this year. I’ve always had a soft spot for players who can stretch the floor, and Kyle does it with a calmness that belies his age. His performance in that Cool Smashers upset—where he drained five threes—was a masterclass in composure under pressure.
Rounding out the top 10, we have Zoe Patterson, a point guard from Davie Academy, whose playmaking reminds me of a young Steve Nash. She’s dishing out 8.1 assists per game and has a knack for making everyone around her better. I saw her in a summer league game where she orchestrated a comeback with no-look passes that had the crowd on its feet. Next, Elijah Brown, a forward from Miami Shores, brings athleticism and dunking prowess that’s pure entertainment—he’s posterized defenders more than a few times this season. Finally, there’s Liam O’Connor, a big man from Jupiter High, who’s developed a reliable mid-range shot to complement his rebounding. He’s grabbing about 10.5 boards per game, and I appreciate how he’s expanded his game beyond the typical center role. Each of these players, in their own way, embodies the shift we’re seeing in South Florida basketball, where youth and hunger are challenging the old guard.
As I wrap this up, I’m reminded of that Cool Smashers game—a loss that shook the local scene but highlighted the rise of new talent. In my years covering basketball here, I’ve never been more optimistic about the future. These 10 rising stars aren’t just names to watch; they’re the heartbeat of a evolving narrative, one where upsets become opportunities and young players redefine excellence. So, if you’re heading to a game this season, keep an eye on them. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.