6’7 ’28 Isaac Smith (Hargrave)
In a gym full of college-level pieces, Isaac Smith was arguably the top player and prospect on display. Taking a step back to consider the strides he’s made (both physically and in terms of skill) over the last six to twelve months, and it’s clear that he’s trending as a national-level talent. Smith passes the immediate look-test with his incredible length, wiry frame, and general movement. He’s a fluid, explosive athlete who knows how to create matchup problems for all types of opponents. To put it plainly: Smith showcased a complete game. He’s already extremely poised, mature, and able to see the game ahead of his peers. Smith appeared comfortable doing legitimately everything on offense. Whether initiating the action or playing without the ball, he consistently found ways to make his presence felt. Smith scored the ball from all levels, showing a high-level combination of perimeter shooting, playmaking instincts, and ability off the bounce. He posted up smaller players and scored or located open teammates with relative ease. Smith is a strong rebounder who displays terrific energy and positioning to find second-chance opportunities. He’s also a switchable defender who can guard basically every position on the floor. Already armed with an impressive foundation and list of intangibles, Smith has all the makings of a very special player.
6’4 ’26 Noah VanBeurden (Alexander Central)
Amidst all the notable transfers in the offseason, not many people have been talking about Noah VanBeurden and his pure dominance as a focal point for the Cougars. However, it’s quite difficult to ignore his production and all-around leadership. VanBeurden is a highly skilled, well-rounded piece with excellent size, scoring polish, and creation ability. He quickly asserted himself from the opening tip and never looked back. VanBeurden displays excellent shot variety and, although he can typically get whatever he wants as a scorer, does a phenomenal job of taking what the defense gives him. He takes advantage of every open jumper or driving lane, yet still looks to set up others and make the right decision with the ball in his hands. VanBeurden is a quality athlete with great feel and instincts. He’s a reliable rebounder and defender who anticipates well to intercept passing lanes and force turnovers. Although other guys throughout the state might be receiving more buzz, VanBeurden’s production speaks for itself.
6’5 ’27 Caleb Nixon (Kings Mountain)
In a time when size and perimeter shooting are arguably more valuable than ever, someone like Caleb Nixon should appeal to a variety of college programs. It’s worth remembering that he suffered an injury and lost a sizable chunk of his last twelve months. That being said, Nixon looked very healthy while asserting himself as a focal point for the Mountaineers. He’s a very smooth shooting threat with a long, wiry frame and the ability to apply pressure with or without the ball in his hands. Nixon is a capable threat off the bounce, showing the ability to attack and make decisions, but is arguably at his best when knocking down jumpers from beyond the arc. He finishes well around the basket and displays a reliable midrange pull-up. Nixon is a capable rebounder who plays with nice energy on both ends of the floor. Defensively, he has clear upside. Nixon already positions himself well to force turnovers and contain his assignment, but will only continue to improve as his body gets stronger.
6’3 ’27 Javian White (Hickory)
Although the Tornadoes have a variety of intriguing pieces, Javian White was arguably their most impressive performer in this contest. He’s a crafty, skilled guard who can absolutely fill it up as a scorer from all levels. White displays a tough, rugged demeanor on the court. He’s more than comfortable setting up the offense and creating for others, but is arguably at his best when looking to fill it up. White showed the ability to heat up quickly and effortlessly apply pressure as a penetrator, pull-up shooter, or threat from beyond the arc. He sees the floor well and is capable of generating clean looks for himself off the bounce. White plays with a chip on his shoulder, as evidenced by his scrappy nature and pesky defensive presence. Given his steady growth, he has the tools and ability to be a scholarship-level piece.
6’1 ’27 Braden Suggs (Ardrey Kell)
Rounding out this group, Braden Suggs provides a seemingly perfect leadership presence for the Knights. He’s a highly unselfish, well-rounded guard who knows how to manage the action and when to assert himself as a primary option. Suggs is an excellent shooter with deep range and the ability to light it up off the catch or bounce. However, he’s very patient and understands how to find his opportunities within the flow of the offense. Although he could’ve definitely hunted his shot more throughout this showing, he appeared more interested in setting up others and only looking to score when needed. Suggs made smart decisions as a playmaker and actively toggled between playing with and without the ball in his hands. Add in his useful rebounding and defensive presence, and it’s easy to see the value he brings to this team.