6’7 ’26 Ny’Zion Ballard (New Hanover)
Given how much college coaches value size and rim protection, it’s genuinely surprising that Ny’Zion Ballard doesn’t have more action within his recruitment. He provides a very reliable interior presence on both ends of the floor. Ballard is a low-maintenance big man who consistently rebounds, anchors the paint defensively, and scores within the flow of the offense. He runs the floor well in transition and positions himself for lobs, drop-offs, and putback finishes. That being said, Ballard also displayed the ability to space the floor or score from the post. He’s only going to blossom as his body continues to develop, but his feel, mobility, and overall instincts should certainly appeal to coaches.
6’5 ’26 Kellum Brown (New Hanover)
After incredibly impressive back-to-back showings from Kellum Brown, it appears he’s another guy being drastically overlooked by college programs. Currently holding a lone Mount Olive offer, he should be an obvious target for scholarship-level coaches. Brown showcased an incredibly efficient all-around scoring package. He shot the ball at a very high clip from the perimeter while applying consistent pressure as a downhill threat. Brown possesses the size and smooth creation skills to cause matchup problems for opponents. His balance and high release point make it extremely difficult for opponents to contest. Brown also rebounded at a high volume and guarded multiple positions defensively. He’ll be one of the most productive players in North Carolina this season.
6’7 ’26 Felipe Minzer (Academy of Central Florida)
Although there are several noteworthy names on the Academy of Central Florida roster, Felipe Minzer was arguably their top performer. He’s an incredibly smart, versatile forward with elite vision and playmaking instincts. Minzer is an all-around nightmare for opponents as someone who can rebound, defend multiple positions, and do legitimately everything on offense. Whether initiating the action or operating from the block, nail, or wing, he’s able to effortlessly create clean looks for himself and others. Minzer displays soft touch as a finisher and perimeter shooter, but his passing ability is special. Add in his rebounding and defensive prowess, and he should certainly be regarded as a top prospect nationally.
6’0 ’26 Cam Newman (Gaston Christian)
Anyone who has watched Gaston Christian this season should already know about Cam Newman’s pure dominance. He’s been nothing short of incredible as the clear focal point for the Eagles. Newman completely controls the offense as the primary creator, displaying a very high IQ with vision, craftiness, and three-level scoring polish. He mixes it up well as a scorer, showing the ability to consistently touch the paint, finish, convert floaters, and knock down jumpers off the catch and bounce. That being said, Newman does a phenomenal job of seeing the floor and making correct reads with the ball. He’s also a pesky defender and natural leader by example. Newman is clearly poised for a big year.
6’4 ’26 Dane Cassada (Moravian Prep)
It’s no surprise that Moravian Prep has an influx of next-level talent within its program, and that certainly includes Dane Cassada. He’s a highly skilled guard who knows how to create, set up others, and apply scoring pressure in a variety of ways. Cassada is a knockdown shooter with deep range and the ability to heat up quickly. His IQ, pace, and understanding of how to produce with or without the ball make him a very adaptable offensive piece. Cassada is a scrappy defender and willing rebounder who doesn’t shy away from physical play on either end of the floor. He consistently stepped up in big moments to shine as a leader for this group.