From the Sideline
Five Impact Juniors

One thing is for certain, the state of North Carolina is loaded with tremendous basketball talent at every level and class. This year, the freshman class of 2019 is no exception. This class is especially deep and talented. Today, let's take a look at five impact juniors.

6'6 Wendell Moore (Cox Mill, Concord, NC)
The evolution of Wendell Moore continues one game at a time. The 'do it' Moore is solidly ranked the number one in the Phenom Hoop Report North Carolina 2019 ranking and is one of the premier players in the county. Moore already sports offers from Kansas, Ohio State, South Carolina, NC State, Wake Forest, UNC, FSU, and Maryland. He has led Cox Mill to a 13-3 record and has played in national level games. He is having a banner year and while his stat line is impressive, Moore simply brings countless intangibles to the table. Currently, he is averaging 26.1 PPG, 3.0 APG, 7.5 RPG, and 1.9 SPG.

 

6'8 Justin McKoy (Panther Creek, Cary, NC)
Shooters translate at every level, but when you're 6'8 and carry a great frame, the sky's the limit. McKoy is a versatile and mobile power forward that has a soft shooting touch and outstanding range for his size/position. On the interior, McKoy has excellent footwork and works hard for low post position. He has passer friendly hands and we've been impressed with his court vision and passing ability from the high post. With his ability to shoot from the perimeter, he can present a mismatch nightmare with opposing teams. For the season, McKoy is averaging 23.2 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.4 BPG and 1.0 SPG.

 

6'8 Patrick Williams (West Charlotte, Charlotte, NC)
Patrick Williams may be one of the most unique players in the state for his class. We're talking about a lengthy, athletic, and high academic 'point forward,' that has only begun to scratch the surface on his long-term potential. While he is having an outstanding junior campaign, his best days will probably be reserved when he gets to college. Currently, he is averaging 18.7 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 2.8 APG, 2. 2 BPG and 1.9 SPG. He competes on both ends of the court and is one of the humblest young players you will encounter. More importantly, he is quite humble and well-grounded as a student and as a person.

 

6'4 Donovan Gregory (Carmel Christian, Matthews, NC)
When coaches ask what position does Donovan Gregory play, our answer is really easy. He plays whatever position that is needed for his team to secure a victory. The high octane, full throttle approach by Donovan Gregory has elevated his recruitment on a national level. While he may not have a 'true position,' one thing is for certain, he is an excellent basketball player that will bring energy, passion and a winning attitude. He will bring effort and a tremendous attitude that is often contagious. Carmel Christian is now 18-2 and just came off a huge win over powerhouse Greensboro Day.

 

5'11 Jalen Benjamin (Leesville Road, Raleigh, NC)
Jalen Benjamin is the consummate point guard. You may not find a craftier, tougher and more competitive player in the state. First of all, don't let his size and body frame fool you. Jalen Benjamin is the real deal. First of all, we're talking about a creative and flashy ball handler that has excellent court vision. He sees plays in advance and can score from all three levels. He can score coming off the catch, but he excels with the ball in his hands. He has the ability to create pass and get his shot off any player that may be bigger, longer and more athletic. Benjamin has been instrumental is making Leesville Road one of the top teams in the NCHSAA 4A division.