2026 Nolan Ericson / 2026 Taurean McKinnon (Mooresville)
What a ride it has been for Mooresville so far, and I’m looking at two key seniors in this game to step up one more time and lead their team. This is a very balanced attack overall with plenty of weapons, but also a team that plays with a “team” mentality; very unselfish. But Ericson and McKinnon have been a force this season, with Ericson being a steady hand leading the charge, being a playmaker for others, and knocking down shots. McKinnon excels in attacking downhill and using his length, consistently putting pressure on the defense.
2026 Jordan Walton (Mooresville)
Walton is another x-factor you should keep an eye on. He has consistently found ways to bring value to this team and has been playing well the last few weeks overall. When talking about him, Walton is a smart, heady floor general who sets the tone with his unselfishness and playmaking ability. Walton utilizes his crafty handle and quick first step to reliably break down opponents, touch the paint, and finish or set up others. He sees the floor really well when attacking to consistently make the right decision with the ball in his hands. He could be a sneaky guard to watch this week.
2026 Nazir Shaw (Warren County)
Shaw leads this team and truly brings value all over the court with his play. He can score and operate from multiple levels, looking to attack off the bounce as well as be a big threat from behind the arc. But, he is a 6’0 guard that can impact the game with his ability to rebound, find teammates, and be a presence on the defensive end. Shaw has led the way for much of the year, and they will need him once again to rise up and lead.
2028 Chase Smith (Queen’s Grant)
Smith is one of the more talented bigs in the state, and he has been a consistent presence all season long down around the basket. He brings a force that opponents have trouble slowing down, as he does a great job of being active in the paint. Smith finishes extremely well with touch and feel around the rim, displaying quick instincts, great hands, and a physical feel down in the paint that allows him to be a double-double machine for this team.
2028 Mekhi Allen (Queen’s Grant)
Allen is the other highly-rated prospect to watch for this team, especially with is scoring, athleticism, and length on the court. Allen can be a lethal weapon with his shot-making, stretching the floor, opening up the offense, and being tough to slow down when he gets to the rim. He has proven to be a strong multi-level scorer as a wing and when he finds his offense clicking, Allen makes this team almost unbeatable on the court.