With the high school basketball season approaching, all eyes are on Davidson Day as a potential breakout program on the national stage. After a strong showing last year, the Patriots are reloading with key returning pieces and high-level additions that could elevate them to one of the top teams in the country. With a balanced mix of experience, firepower, and depth, the question becomes clear: does Davidson Day have the makeup to break into the national rankings this season?
2026 Will Stevens
2026 Cody Peck
2028 Xavier Hall
2026 Justyn Whitfield
2028 Sherod McCormick
2028 Omari Whiteside
2026 Nick Arnold
When you dive into this roster, what immediately stands out are the three monsters that opponents with have to face. 2026 Will Stevens towers over many and has clearly elevated his play this summer to be a dominant big man on either side of the court. Stevens is not only able to be a true rim protector but also has taken the next steps offensively in scoring with touch and feel, as well as stretching the court. Then you have 2026 Cody Peck returning back to North Carolina, coming from IMG Academy last year. Peck is a fluid, high-potential prospect that is oozing with upside and can hurt you in so many ways. He can create and score, knock down shots outside, finish at the rim, run the floor, and also be a terrific shot-blocker for this team. And finally, you have 2028 Xavier Hall, who is a rising big man you will want to know. He brings size and physicality, carving out space, bruising opponents down in the paint, and swallowing up rebounds for his team.
Then you talk about a gifted backcourt with a blend of leadership, talent, and playmaking. 2026 Nick Arnold is as tough as it gets, as he can be relentless on either end. Tough, scrappy, and creative guard that can score tough baskets, facilitate for others, and be a true leader. 2026 Justyn Whitfield is a scoring guard who can fill it up and brings in a winning culture from VCCS. Quick off the bounce and can knock down tough shots from the perimeter.
2028 Sherod McCormick and 2028 Omari Whiteside are two terrific young prospects, with McCormick understanding what it takes to lead a team as a point guard. He is strong, gets paint touches, and knows how to run the show. Whiteside is a rugged player who can defend, score, and use his quickness to his advantage. Strong overall creator, scores from multiple levels, and knows how to find others as well.
Davidson Day will certainly have the talent, but time will tell if it can all come together. Though there will be some things to work on, the talent is there… this is a team that could potentially become a nationally-ranked team by the end of the year if the recipe goes well. If it does, this could be another memorable season for the program.