NPH National 2029 Top 5 Rankings
The Class of 2029 is still years away from reaching its prime, but the talent is undeniable and the upside of the top prospects is eye-catching. NPH got the chance to watch a lot of these prospects either at Canada Basketball Nationals, with their AAU clubs, or with their Prep teams. These five standouts have already begun to separate themselves from the pack with advanced tools, physical attributes, and a competitive edge that projects well for the future.
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1. 6’5 G Mikhail Francis – Edge Prep
Francis is a dynamic guard with athleticism, fluidity, and a fierce competitive nature. He plays with an intensity and edge (pun intended) that’s rare at this stage, constantly attacking and looking to impose his will on both ends. His shooting mechanics are smooth and projectable, making him a legitimate three-level threat in the future.
Francis has already begun earning minutes with Edge Prep’s Senior team, gaining invaluable experience competing against older, stronger players. That exposure has only accelerated his development and sharpened his all-around game.
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2. 6’3 G Jaylen Shepherd – Crestwood
Polished, poised, and ahead of his years. Coming from a basketball family, his IQ, feel, and decision-making stand out. He already looks like a steady floor general with scoring touch, and with the possibility of continued growth into the 6’5–6’6 range, his long-term ceiling is highly intriguing. Shepherd is as safe a bet as you’ll find this early.
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3. 6’0 PG Praise Badejo – King Heights Academy
Badejo is just about as good as it gets for a PG prospect at this age. Explosive, poised, and already experienced at the highest levels. Having competed up a year with Canada’s U16 national team, he’s proven he can thrive against older competition.
Now, getting consistent minutes with King Heights’ Senior team, Badejo continues to grow as a leader and floor general. His downhill burst, ability to score from all three levels, and toughness on defence give him real two-way upside. Badejo sets the tone for his team, and his leadership traits stand out just as much as his physical tools.
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4. 6’7 W Brandyn Clarke – New Hampton Basketball
Clarke’s size, athleticism, and natural ability make him one of the most exciting wings in the class. At this age, he often overpowers opponents with physicality, but what’s most promising is his willingness to expand his skill set. His jumper is coming along nicely, and if he adds polish to his handle and shot-making, Clarke could end up being one of the elite two-way wings nationally. The ceiling is limitless.
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5. 6’5 G Logan Szpak – 3D Academy
Szpak is a highly skilled scoring guard with athleticism and a polished skillset. He combines smooth shot-making with the ability to attack off the bounce and finish through contact. Szpak had a 38-point performance at the U15 Canada Basketball Nationals for Team BC, where he averaged 21 points per game for the tournament — an impressive feat that solidified his place among Canada’s top young guards. His confidence, work ethic, and natural feel for scoring make him one to keep a close eye on in the years ahead.
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Final Thoughts
This 2029 class is loaded with talent, headlined by Francis’ dynamic guard play and Shepherd’s advanced poise. Badejo, Clarke, and Szpak each bring a blend of skill, size, and competitiveness that makes them just as exciting for the future. With years of development ahead, this group is only scratching the surface of what’s possible.
