NPH C/O 2026 Top 10 Rankings
The Class of 2026 is shaping up to be a talented one. From dominant seven-footers patrolling the paint to fearless guards carving up defenses, these players have already proven themselves on the prep, grassroots, and international stages. With NCAA programs and pro scouts watching closely, the following Top 10 are setting the tone for Canada’s next wave of basketball excellence.
In this top 10, there are four players from Ontario, three players from Quebec, one from Calgary, one from BC, and one International.
#1 – Arafane Diane – 7’0 C
Headlining the class is the towering Arafane Diane, better known as “Baby Shaq.” His dominance has translated at every level – from the U19 World Cup with Guinea to prep competition with Iowa United where he played at an NPA event last year. Recently, Diane announced his Top 5 schools: Kentucky, Indiana, Houston, Virginia, and Arkansas. With elite size, power, and touch around the rim, Diane projects as a program-changing big at the next level.
#2 – Miles Sadler – 6’0 PG
One of the premier point guards in the world, Miles Sadler’s IQ and feel for the game separate him from his peers. He consistently elevates his teammates and shines brightest on the biggest stages. With 20+ Division I offers—including Kansas, Michigan State, and Tennessee—Sadler is a true floor general with the potential to lead a high-major program from day one.
#3 – Eli Jolin – 6’6 SG
A lethal sharpshooter with a fearless edge, Eli Jolin gives defenders nightmares from deep. At 6’6, he combines size with skill, providing instant scoring at all three levels. Committed to Santa Clara—a program known for developing NBA-ready guards—Jolin is also an underrated athlete capable of playing above the rim. Expect him to make noise early in his college career.
#4 – Dionycius “Nyce” Bakare – 6’6 G/F
Bakare exploded this past summer with UPlay on the Nike circuit, showcasing his elite two-way potential. A long, fluid athlete with the ability to guard multiple positions, Bakare can also stretch the floor with his shooting. Always calm under pressure, he’s a steadying force with upside.
#5 – Yousaf Ahmad – 6’7 G
Rising steadily in the past year with Kings Heights, Yousaf Ahmad is one of the most polished offensive players in the class. At 6’7, he can seamlessly slide between both guard spots, scoring with range, off the bounce, and through playmaking. With elite vision and smooth athleticism, Ahmad has been putting up big numbers in both NPH events and the Nike circuit. He’s a breakout star in the making.
#6 – Maxime Meyer – 7’0 C
Another high-major seven-footer, Maxime Meyer showed his value at the U19 World Cup with size, mobility, and defensive IQ. He’s excellent in ball-screen coverage, rebounds well, and finishes strong inside. Meyer recently narrowed his recruitment to Michigan State, Ohio State, Saint Mary’s, SMU, Stanford, and Vanderbilt, proving his national demand as a big who fits the modern game.
#7 – Jordan Charles – 6’0 G
Jordan Charles cemented his name at the U19 FIBA World Cup with Canada, where his confidence and creativity shone against future NBA lottery picks. An unpredictable guard who thrives on instincts and flair, Charles thrives in free-flowing offense and is fearless under the spotlight. His toughness and skillset make him one of the toughest covers in the class.
#8 – Kamai Samuels – 6’3 PG
With a 6’8 wingspan, Samuels is a defensive menace who thrives on disrupting opposing guards. Explosive and aggressive, he gets to the rim at will, and once his shot fully develops, his ceiling skyrockets. Already attracting high-major recruitment, Samuels is a true alpha guard with leadership traits and untapped potential.
#9 – Promis N’Landu – 6’2 PG
N’Landu is a gifted scorer with the ability to fill it up from anywhere on the floor. A tough defender with a strong frame, he thrives at finishing around the rim and creating his own shot. His recruitment began heating up at Fort Erie last season, and with multiple D1 offers already on the table, he’s set for another big leap this year.
#10 – Malachi Richmond – 6’3 PG
Fresh off his commitment to Eastern Washington, Calgary’s Malachi Richmond is one of the most polished and composed guards in the class. After leading Edge to the NPA finals, Richmond has proven himself as a mature floor leader with elite scoring instincts, shot creation, and ball-screen play. He looks the part of a long-term impact guard.
Conclusion
The NPH Class of 2026 Top 10 is loaded with talent across every position. From seven-foot rim protectors to fearless guards who thrive under pressure, this group represents the next wave of Canadian basketball excellence. With college commitments rolling in and international experience under their belts, these players are ready to shape the future of the game. Keep an eye on this list—many of these names will be called on NBA Draft night in the years to come.
Stay tuned for the C/O 2027 Top 10 releasing next week.
