We are in the final days of the 2023-2024 edition of the University Interscholastic League (UIL) of Texas season. I wanted to highlight some of the underclassmen that have played key roles in their team reaching at-least the regional semifinals of their respective classification. Let’s dive in and take a look at who are taking leadership roles at a young age.
Xavier Green, 6’ 2026 PG - The Colony: Green is one part of the three headed 2026 monster that led The Colony to a the Class 5A UIL Regional Finals. A sturdy built guard that knows how to run a team but also generate his own offense. Mid-range pulls, floaters and can shoot 3-pointers off the catch. Was impressed also with his defense. He competes on that end as he’s active with his hands and feet, which allow him to be a pest to opposing guards.
Dakari Spear, 6’4 2026 SG/SF - The Colony: Dakari is arguably the best 2026 we have in Texas and will be known nationally. A rangy, long guard that can really shoot the ball. While moving, off the catch and can attack a close out and enter into a mid-range pull. Tough kid, too. I’ve seen him constantly get to the rim when the game is close to seal the deal.
Bryce Dixon, 6’3 2026 SF - The Colony: The last one of the prolific 2026 group for The Colony. His energy is unmatched. Physical, rebounds, plays with an edge and plays bigger than his size. He’s a mismatch in the frontline because he beats the bigger, slower guys off the dribble, but exploits size advantages when teams switch when he’s a screen setter.
Davion Adkins, 6’8 2026 PF/C - Faith Family: Faith Family is still rolling and looking to add another Class 4A state title on the mantle. Big man Davion Adkins has played an integral part this season. Athletic, runs the floor, alters shots at the rim and is a lob/dunker spot finisher. There is more to his offensive game that’s growing, but he’s played his role and to his strengths that translates to a high level of high school basketball. High major prospect in 2026.
Nasir Price, 6’3 CG - Katy Seven Lakes: A combo that has natural scoring abilities. Back-court of him and Louisiana Tech signee A.J. Bates was a handful. They led their team to a 6A Regional semifinal run before losing to FAB 50 No. 49 Beaumont United (Beaumont, Texas). A lot to like about Price from a scoring output, but I’ve witnessed improvements on his play-making skills as well.
Kollin Douglas, 6’ 2026 CG - Lancaster: Really shoots the ball and when he’s hot, he provides a jolt of offense for a Lancaster group that’s currently in the Class 5A semifinals. Has played a nice role for this team and looks more comfortable and confident playing on the varsity level.
Josh Goodwin Jr., 6’4 2026 Guard - Cy Ranch: Josh is really good with the ball in his hands. Good positional size, assertive driver to the rim and can really pass on the move. Throws strikes on skip passes, dump-offs and kicks to the shooter when he drives. Was an integral part of the Cy Ranch group that reached the Class 6A regional semifinals.
Billy White III, 6’7 2026 SF/PF - Corpus Christi Veterans Memorial: Really more of a three, but can be utilized and provide a lot of spacing as a four, too. Anyways, Billy White III is a marksman from deep that holds a quick trigger. He has range beyond the 3-point line and with his blend of size, length and shooting prowess, he’s been a big-time contributor for a Corpus Christi Veterans Memorial team that is in the Class 5A semifinals.
Kavian Bryant, 6’1 2027 PG - Palestine Westwood: Bryant had a season to remember and he’s only a freshman. Averaged 30 points per game (yes 30) and led his team to the Class 3A regional semifinals. In a loss vs Kountze, Kavian strung together a 55 point outing. A bucket getter that embraces contact, Bryant is a three level scorer whose approach to the game gives him an edge vs opponents.
Amarion Hunter, 6’2 2027 SG - Dallas Carter: Hunter is part of a Dallas Carter squad that got to the Class 4A regional finals. Hunter had games where he connected on multiple triples and when he gets hot, he doesn’t need much space to launch. Was a rotation player that brought spacing when on the floor.