- Can Jalen Cone continue to close the gap on Jaden Springer for number one'
Cone finished the year as the Hoop States leading scorer with an average of 34.9 points per game, he led Walkertown HS (NC) to their first ever conference championship on the hardwood and earned conference POY. Cone also broke the all time scoring record at the prestigious Frank Spencer Holiday Classic previously held by former Mcdonald’s All American Tyler Lewis.
The efforts weren't ignored we saw Cone jump up to number two in our 2020 rankings and the move was well deserved. Cone has a rare mix of natural ability and high intangibles that have him tracking as a high major floor general. The stage is set for Cone to shine amongst the best talent in NC regardless of class, after being snubbed for 2A POY he's coming in with something to prove on Sunday. Cone is the type of guy that could take over for Mac McClung as the next six foot high flyer on the mixtape scene!
- Will Bryant Randleman build on a strong junior year
Randleman and Durham Academy put together consecutive 20- win seasons for the first time in years after a strong 2017-18 campaign that showed an immense amount of growth and promise. Randleman had to become more of a leader this year for the Cavaliers, Randleman was forced to step into the starting point guard and he's embraced it.
We got to see DA during the preseason in our HS showcase and Randleman came in aggressive looking to set the tone in every contest. What has stood out is the commitment Randleman has made to get teammates more involved. Sunday Randleman will have a chance to etch his name in with the upper echelon of 2019 guards in the Triangle. At 6'4 Randleman has the size to play either guard position at the next level, currently he holds several offers from regional D1's but all non ACC schools in NC should definitely be locked in.
- Jalen O’neal will showcase his perimeter skills on the Big Stage
The Charlotte product was condemned strictly to the paint last summer during the travel ball season for a small Mooresville Magic lineup, at 6'4 O'Neal is a versatile wing prospect capable of guarding multiple positions. Although O'neal held his own down low and proved to be an above average rebounder his natural position is on the perimeter.
For Concord HS (NC) O'Neal plays more on the wing; during our HS Jamboree O'neal flashed a solid handle, he looked comfortable bringing the rock up and saw the floor well while running the break, offensively O'Neal is a three level scorer this weekend will be a prime opportunity to put the entire package on display. O'Neal is one guy who has a chance to dramatically improve his recruitment buzz with a big spring.
- Which Maye Will shine brightest in March
It's no secret Luke Maye made history last march with a shot that captured all the hearts in tarheel nation, but his brother Beau Maye has a chance to etch his name along with big bro in NC Top 80 gloar. Beau has been working to establish a name for himself in the Queen City area at Hough HS (NC), he provided solid minutes in limited time as a sophomore.
This spring and summer will be crucial in the development of Beau, it's a chance to build on momentum and increase the recruitment buzz. People will naturally watch Beau closely because no one wants to miss out on another Maye, the 6'9 Hough product will have a chance to display the entire repertoire come Sunday. Maye will be counted on next year as Hough will graduate six seniors in June, but he will have to perform on the big stage first like so many Hoop State prospects before him.