We launched the new ESPN prospect rankings in April, and since that time have had an opportunity to see a larger number of players, as well as additional performances from the top prospects. Below is a selection of the most notable moves up the board, with criteria including a high level of ability, standout performances, contributions to winning on a consistent basis, and potential impact and influence in both the collegiate ranks and/or NBA draft boards:
Cade Cunningham (PG, 6-foot-5, 215 pounds, Montverde Academy (FL)/Arlington, Texas) -- No. 8 to No. 2
We've seen this coming since last year. Physically strong with length and a powerful frame, Cunningham is a former high school quarterback who is special because he makes others better and can also carry the scoring load. Cunningham's on-court presence and leadership in huddles is impressive. He makes brilliant dimes to open teammates, his mindset is team-first, and he'll also get on the floor for a loose ball, make a defensive stop or get on the glass. The rising senior will continue to challenge Evan Mobley for the No. 1 spot.
Cunningham's recruiting list still includes 10 schools: Duke, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Memphis, North Carolina, Oklahoma State, Texas, Virginia, and Washington.
Ziaire Williams (SF, 6-7, 175, Notre Dame/Sherman Oaks, California) -- No. 18 to No. 6
Pure natural talent and elite athletic ability are the reasons Williams is rising. A modern-day hybrid forward with fluid movements, the versatile Williams has been more aggressive with his scoring, but must keep an eye on not disappearing during games. What's been evident and increasingly more visible is his impact inside the team concept, part of the reason he selected to play for USA basketball in the 2019 FIBA U19 World Cup, which will take place in Greece in July.
"Ziaire played very well at the U19 training camp," said USAB head coach Don Showalter. "Long and skilled, he is really valuable in the international game as he is very versatile. Has a great motor -- he can guard any position, which helps us defensively."
It's early in the recruiting race as North Carolina, Stanford, Oregon, Arizona, UCLA, Memphis, USC, Gonzaga and many others are trying to make a push for Williams.
Makur Maker (C, 6-11, 230, Orange Lutheran/Orange, California) -- No. 36 to No. 11
Maker owns an exciting combination of size, length, rare skill and feel for the game. The cousin of Thon Maker, drafted by the Detroit Pistons last week, Makur scores the ball with effectiveness at all three levels as both his jumper and free throw have tight, one-motion mechanics to give him accuracy. Maker's ball-handling and drive game are outstanding because he has control and moves with his hips and shoulders down to create efficiency. Explosive and quick to the rim, he anticipates missed shots with effort for second-chance points. Maker guards the rim as a legitimate shot blocker (7-foot-2 wingspan, 9-3 standing reach) and plays with continuous energy.
"His game transcends to the highest level," Dream Vision director Clayton Williams told me. "The scary thing is he is just getting started in the game."
Offers keep pouring in as Kentucky, Auburn, Oregon, USC, UCLA, Washington, Kansas and many more are interested if Maker pursues the college basketball route.
Day'Ron Sharpe (C, 6-9, 246, South Central/Winterville, North Carolina) -- No. 49 to No. 34
Sharpe, who is already committed to North Carolina, has made a significant change to his body and now runs, rebounds and finishes at a higher clip. The future Tar Heel is dedicated to scoring in the paint on post-ups with quick spin moves thanks to his improving footwork and secure hands. He has demonstrated a jump hook and a short jumper to become a legitimate scoring threat. Sharpe is highly active on the glass and anticipates the miss while pursuing the ball. He still needs to play lower to become a more dynamic player, but Roy Williams nonetheless has a very talented and standout big man heading to Chapel Hill.
Mady Sissoko (C, 6-8, 225, Wasatch Academy/Mount Pleasant, Utah) -- No. 48 to No. 35
Sissoko has improved at a rapid pace, as he continues to impress off a strong high school season and showing at Geico nationals. Extra long with fast feet and long strides, Sissoke can sprint the floor, change direction and repeat with effort and mobility. His vertical bounce allows him to block shots and be a deterrent at the rim. To score, Sissoko catches lobs and drop-off passes, and will hit the glass for second-chance points -- his motor is contagious. This summer it will be crucial for him to increase his ball skills, post-up game and short face-up game without sacrificing his dominant play.
Michigan State, Michigan, Cal, UCLA, Baylor, Arizona State, Colorado, BYU, Gonzaga, Memphis, Auburn, Tennessee and others are in the hunt.