VIDEO: CHARLES BARNES JR IS HIS ONLY COMPETITION, 2026 SLASHER HAS NO CEILINGS. By: @TopFloorLobby

You have to have quite the insight to know who Charles Barnes jr. is when it comes to prospects throughout Illinois. Barnes is a 6’5 guard-forward that has all the intangibles to be a great player on the next level. Barnes has no ceiling; however, the young upcoming slasher is not all potential like most players who possess the same characteristics. Barnes can score at will and his length allows him to be versatile and guard various positions defensively.

The thing about Barnes is that he is his only competition. When evaluating him at times he seems disengaged however his presence is still felt because of how versatile he is and how much of an offensive threat he can be at times. We are not here to sugarcoat it! Charles Barnes jr. will go as far as he wants to go.

Barnes currently has four Division I offers, the most of any player in our Overlooked Rankings. It’s not a coincidence that schools like Cleveland State, Illinois State, Northern Illinois, and Valparaiso are pursing this upcoming talent. Barnes is lengthy, has a soft touch within 12 feet, plays above the rim and he can handle the ball at 6 foot 5. Nothing is stopping Charles from exploiting his abilities and playing at the highest level possible. It’s almost as if to say Barnes is capable is selling him short, Charles Barnes is more than capable, and he is a prospect to keep an eye on through the spring and summer.

Barnes is currently still contending for a State title at De La Salle this season after winning the Regional Championship. Charles also recently achieved his 1,000-point milestone. Keep an eye out on the slasher as he is prone to breakout in Illinois. Watch footage of Charles Barnes jr. from this season on Top Floor Lobby’s YouTube Channel.