Upstate NY 2027 Standouts This Season Pt. 2
We return with part two, highlighting some more of our class of 2027 standouts. With all the talent gracing Upstate NY, we are fortunate to have a long list of prospects for college coaches at all levels. With more names from Albany, Binghamton, and Rochester, we now feature a look at a couple of talented juniors representing Western New York and Section 6.
Click here for part one of the 2027 Standout Series
Roman Maldonado, Irondequoit HS: Maldonado has Irondequoit off to another fierce start as we enter the New Year. The shifty guard runs the show for the Eagles - making excellent decisions with the ball, creating for his teammates by using his quickness in bursts when attacking the rim, and hitting shots from three. Maldonado’s quickness partnered with his tight handle have ushered the ability to create his own looks in which he’s able to elevate over defenders on his jumpshot, or use a crafty finish at the rim.
Logan Rodriguez, Albany Academy: Rodriguez may be one of the more heralded juniors in all of Upstate. The 6’9” forward courtesy of Plattsburgh, NY is now running with the Cadets of Albany Academy who have hit the ground running in their inaugural NEPSAC season. Rodriguez, given his size, is obviously a weapon on the block, but his guard-like tendencies make him a real threat from the perimeter, displaying a smooth stroke from three, but especially in attacking closeouts. His length causes problems for defenses, it only takes one dribble from the arc for Rodriguez to make a highlight play at the rim, while also presenting the innate tendency to act as a smooth operator in the midrange. I expect Rodriguez, who already has good D1 offers, to continue to garner heavy interest at that level.
John Klopfer, Burnt Hills HS: Klopfer was an All-Suburban Council Team member as a sophomore, and so far this season, continues to show development in his game. Klopfer does a little bit of everything for the Spartans. He has continued to progress as a ball handler, and at 6’5”, has used that as a weapon to attack in transition, either scoring past defenders at the rim or pulling up from beyond the arc. Klopfer has cemented himself as a lethal catch and shoot option given his quick and high release. Additionally, Klopfer is active defensively, having to guard multiple positions, he’s shown good versatility on that end of the court.
Joey Whiting, Bethlehem HS : Whiting, a 6’7” lefty by way of Bethlehem High has jumped on the scene aggressively here in the past year. The junior big has a soft touch around the rim and excels in the midrange backing defenders down or facing up and scoring over. His strong frame and athleticism help keep him dominant on the glass which is a major contributor towards his efficiency inside. Additionally, Whiting has shown capable of stepping away and hitting good looks from three. He is one to watch as his talented Bethlehem squad look to make a push in Section 2.
Dane Brown, Grand Island HS: Brown has been a force here in the early portion of the season for Section 6’s Grand Island. The 6’7” forward has an array of skills that make him one of the more captivating prospects listed in our Class of 2027 overview. With his length, he’s able to push the ball in transition and attack defenses, finishing efficiently with both hands around the rim. He is an above the rim threat with the ability to shoot over defenders and hit open looks from beyond the arc. His versatility shines defensively, where he is able to guard multiple positions effectively both at and away from the rim.
Derren Brooks, Akron HS: Another dominating inside presence from out west. Derren Brooks is a 6’8” big man courtesy of Akron High. In Akron’s undefeated start to the season, Brooks has been a box score beast, averaging north of 20ppg and greater than 14 rebounds. The wide-framed Brooks has swift feet, making him hard to stay in front of when cutting to the basket, and difficult to keep in front when guarding in the post. The big man is efficient around the rim and out of the post, and the paradoxical speed provides him plenty of opportunity on the break - grabbing rebounds on one end, and throwing it down on the other.
Shawn Remplet, Binghamton: Remplett, a 6’7”, lengthy big, continues to be a vocal point for reigning state champion Binghamton heading into the new year. Remplett has athleticism that complements his length, which is displayed through tough finishes and acrobatic dunks offensively, and blocked shots and consistent protection down low defensively. Remplet has good awareness, moves well around the perimeter, and, despite his length, can guard multiple positions. He is especially dangerous running the floor, where he is often rewarded for his defensive contributions with a dunk.
Dane Brown
Roman Maldonado