Written by Paul Garwood

Quick trigger creator with scoring burst and transition impact shaping his next level projection

From the hardwood of Lincoln Park High to the radar screens of Midwest college coaches, Zahir Haqq has steadily emerged as one of the most intriguing point guards in Michigan’s Class of 2026. Standing about 5’10” with a live handle and an aggressive scoring instinct, Haqq’s game blends quick decision making with a competitor’s edge, traits that have made him essential to the Railsplitters’ success and drawn attention from collegiate programs.

Haqq does not need to overpower defenders to make his mark. Instead, he uses speed and craft to carve space, whether weaving through traffic on penetration or spotting up in rhythm for mid-range conversions. In Lincoln Park’s district final win, he led the scoring attack with 17 points while controlling tempo and dictating possessions through ball security and vision. That kind of performance under pressure is exactly what coaches value in a lead guard, someone who can calm a hectic game and spark rhythm when it matters most.

His impact goes well beyond scoring. Haqq’s playmaking instincts show in how he manipulates defenses, using ball screens, change-of-pace dribbles, and quick reads to create clean looks for teammates. On the defensive end, his anticipation and active hands flip possessions, forcing turnovers that often lead directly to transition points. His ability to turn defense into offense creates momentum swings that shift games.

Recruiting interest around Haqq has continued to build as his production and consistency have grown. While he may not have the size of every guard in his class, his explosiveness, creativity, and feel for the game have earned attention, including reported interest from Macomb Community College and other programs evaluating his fit within guard-driven systems.

What makes Haqq especially compelling is not just his scoring flashes, but the consistency of his overall impact. He does not wait for opportunities to present themselves. He creates them. That proactive mindset shows in his assertive drives, timely kick outs, and competitive energy on the defensive end. Coaches consistently point to his ability to keep possessions alive, generate offense off the bounce, and maintain tempo control, qualities that translate cleanly to the next level.

Like most developing guards, there are clear areas for growth. At roughly 5’10”, adding functional strength will help him finish through contact and handle physical defenders. Improving decision-making against double teams and continuing to refine shot creation in isolation will further elevate his effectiveness as a true floor general.

Those development points do not overshadow his foundation. Haqq’s game is already built on quick vision, competitive instincts, and multi-phase impact, the same traits that allow lead guards to thrive in college basketball. His ability to blend scoring with creation, and do so without hesitation, makes him a prospect worth tracking closely as recruiting cycles progress.

Off the court, teammates and coaches describe Haqq as a locker room presence, someone who pushes others, stays engaged in preparation, and leads through action. That mindset strengthens Lincoln Park’s culture and mirrors what college programs look for when projecting long-term growth.

In a class filled with dynamic guards, Zahir Haqq stands out not because of a single explosive stat line, but because of how he blends pace with poise, creativity with competitiveness, and instinct with impact. As he continues refining his craft and expanding his recruiting footprint, his blend of playmaking and leadership is well positioned to translate beyond high school.