Written by Paul Garwood

A 6’5″ guard with athletic upside and multi-facet impact in Michigan’s 2026 class

In the competitive landscape of Michigan high school basketball, players who can stretch the floor, defend multiple positions, and influence the game without dominating the ball are vital — and that’s exactly where Cyrus Goins of Wayne Memorial finds his niche. Standing roughly 6’5″ and seemingly natural at both ends of the court, Goins has emerged as one of the Zebras’ most intriguing contributors in the Class of 2026.

Throughout the 2025-26 season, Goins has proved to be more than a mere role player. MaxPreps box score logs show him regularly contributing in scoring, rebounding, and defensive stats — even cracking double figures multiple times in competitive games. His ability to score over smaller defenders, combined with his knack for crashing the glass out of guard rotations, gives Wayne Memorial a unique dynamic that few teams in the region can match.

Goins’ performance goes beyond raw numbers. His size — a clear asset over most perimeter players — allows him to be a constant threat to cleanly secure rebounds, create second-chance opportunities, and immediately tilt the floor in transition. On defense, that same length becomes disruptive, allowing him to contest shots, cut off passing lanes, and recover quickly against quicker guards. Those traits have not gone unnoticed; reports indicate he’s drawn interest and offers from NCAA Division II programs, including Edinboro and Saginaw Valley State, showcasing that his game resonates beyond the local stage.

But what truly sets Goins apart is his versatility. Coaches value players who can defend multiple positions, switch without losing leverage, and contribute offensively without always needing to be the focal point — and that’s where he excels. While he may not be the primary ball-handler, his ability to catch and shoot, rebound aggressively, and make winning decisions under pressure makes him a chess piece many collegiate staffs would covet.

Yet, like many rising prospects, Goins has avenues to further refine his craft. Consistency in shooting — particularly from deep — and added strength to play through contact will elevate his already intriguing profile. Sharpened playmaking instincts and a more polished handle in tight spaces will broaden his offensive usage and open harder defensive matchups at the next level.

Academically and personally, Goins embodies the type of student-athlete that college coaches seek. Local coverage and interaction notes portray him as a committed teammate, willing to work through offseason improvements and step into bigger roles as he matures. That mindset, coupled with his physical tools, paints the picture of not just a player with promise, but one with a clear path to becoming a productive collegiate contributor.

For Wayne Memorial, having a wing who fills the stat sheet without forcing the issue and contributes to the team’s overall identity is a luxury. As the Zebras chase league success and postseason impact, Goins’ multi-faceted game remains a key piece in their rotation.

In the broader recruiting picture, his offers and scouting buzz reflect that his game translates — a testament to both his current production and projected role growth. With continued physical and technical development, Cyrus Goins is a name that should keep climbing on college radars and could very well become a steady contributor early in his collegiate career.