5’11 ’27 JJ Short (NC Rise)
Between the IQ, poise, and overall balance, it’s easy to see what Short brings to a team. He understands how to properly dictate the pace while consistently taking care of the ball and creating opportunities for himself and others. Short is an efficient scorer from all levels, but does a terrific job of picking his spots and making smart decisions off the bounce. He’s a reliable defender and willing rebounder who pushes the break well in transition. Short simply knows how to run a team, and continues to highlight clear strides as a player. It’s easy to see his role expanding for the Bengals going forward.
6’5 ‘27 Drew Neve (Carolina Riptide)
Although several guys from this roster warrant attention, Neve earns recognition for his versatile, unselfish, team-first identity. His toughness, nonstop motor, and blue-collar approach to the game make him a real problem for the opposition on both ends of the floor. At 6-foot-5, Neve does a phenomenal job of defending and outrebounding bigger opponents. Though he plays with terrific energy, it’s his physicality that allows him to be an overwhelming piece. Neve finishes, spaces the floor, and makes smart passes when necessary. He earns second-chance opportunities and lurks well for lobs/putback chances. Neve is simply a guy who coaches should want on their team.
6’5 ’28 Zion Johnson (Team United GSO)
Given his array of physical tools, it’s easy to see the appeal of Johnson as a long-term prospect. He’s still just beginning to scratch the surface, yet already does a solid job of impacting the game as a rebounder and interior defender. Johnson plays with a quality motor and has shown clear improvements between his timing, finishing, and general understanding of the game. He battles well for post position and is getting better at making decisive moves on the block. The upside is clear, so it’ll be fun to watch Johnson’s development over the coming years.
6’0 ’28 Deuce Geer (Durham Hurricanes)
In terms of sheer ability, it’s easy to see the appeal with a young prospect like Geer. He’s smart, smooth, and makes the game look effortless. His ability to fill it up as an all-around offensive piece is impressive. Whether creating for himself, playing without the ball, or applying pressure in transition, Geer consistently finds ways to score. He displays nice vision as a passer and understands how to set up others at a solid rate. Geer also possesses defensive instincts and forces turnovers with regularity. Expect him to emerge as a name worth noting.