As we launch our new player rankings for the classes of 2020, 2021, and 2022, we embark on the next wave of future stars in the high school game. To be listed as the best in their respective classes means they have more than just talent, they have a combination of skill, physical giftedness and special traits on the court that enhance one's ability. It's time to dive into the best prospects of each class and take a look at who's No. 1 and why?
2020 No. 1 Evan Mobley
Mobley took on the No.1 spot as a sophomore and continues to embrace it as a rising senior. The class of 2020 is absolutely loaded with star power at the top, the best that we have seen since the 2017 class that featured Deandre Ayton, Marvin Bagley, Michael Porter and Jaren Jackson. For Mobley to hold on to the top spot is a testament to his ability to improve.
He combines so many talents with elite measurables. At 7-foot with a 7-foot-4 wingspan, Mobley possesses the grace and fluidness of a small forward when running the floor and making offensive moves. Everyone in the game knows about his advanced skill level, soft touch and shot-blocking prowess, which are eye-popping. The game comes easy to Mobley because he stays locked in on executing the fundamentals and tries to master the simple aspects before performing them on the court.
What most don't know is that he owns a high-level basketball IQ and does not try new moves that haven't been rehearsed in practice. A star who is not into taking all the shots, he is into being efficient and winning. It's that type of approach and demeanor that makes him unique and No.1 in his class.
2021 No. 1 Pat Baldwin Jr.
Baldwin is one of the top shooters and shot-making prospects in all of high school basketball. The beauty of his game is to make no-dribble 3s with ease, cutting off screens for quality looks and to make straight-line shots against a hard defensive closeout. Baldwin plays with skill and finesse while understanding the importance of moving without the ball.
The best shooters in the game, regardless of level, have developed strong shot preparation, which positions him for open looks. Shot preparation requires excellent footwork and practice to create two very important scenarios -- time to get their shot off and space to see the rim with two eyes.
The next step in Baldwin's growth is learning how to compete through the physicality. He displays a high IQ for the game. His dad, Pat Baldwin Sr., played at Northwestern and is the head coach at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Baldwin's focus is on improving by having a teachable spirit, which directs his performances and expands his production. Because of his length, frame and pure stroke, there are comparisons between Baldwin and Klay Thompson as they both approach and play the game in a similar fashion.
2022 No. 1 Emoni Bates
When it comes to having the whole package, Bates is in a class by himself. He has everything you could want in a basketball player. The demonstrated ability to score with comfort from different spots on the floor and execute with poise give him the edge in every game.
Tall, lanky and with the ability to make shots deep off the dribble, Bates plays with a nasty attitude along with having great work habits. He has been compared to Kevin Durant because their shooting ranges, athletic abilities and body frames are similar.
When you look for separating qualities, it's hard not to see the burning desire of Bates to be the best. It's that passion -- along with his extreme talent and potential -- that keeps him at the top of his class.
Bates is considering five schools: Duke, Florida State, Kentucky, Michigan and Michigan State. It's important to note that the 2022 class could be the first group the NBA allows to go from the high schools ranks directly into the NBA draft.