As the high school season rapidly approaches, there’s no better time to start taking a closer look at programs throughout the state. Given the restructuring of the public-school classifications, things will look quite different for the first time in a while. The NCHSAA has expanded from four classifications to eight, subsequently doubling the number of champions and contenders across the board. Although there are likely some benefits, it’ll be fascinating to see the overall impact this has on the immediate and long-term future. Consider a team like Carson, which now jumped to 5A with the pieces to make a lot of noise. Let’s take a closer look at their core grouping…
It’s easy to see the consistent leadership and production of CP Perry. He burdens a massive offensive load for this group, both as a scorer and playmaker, and offers a dynamic presence from the lead guard position. Perry fills it up as a scorer from all levels at a nonstop rate. He’s quick, crafty, and makes quality decisions with the ball in his hands. Perry knows how to take what the defense gives him but is more than capable of getting basically shot he wants. He’s great at navigating two-man actions and forcing defenses to stay alert at all times. Perry is also a pesky defender and solid rebounder for his size/position. This group will ultimately go as far as he can take them.
His backcourt mate, Jacob Mills, lost the last few months of travel ball due to injury but still remains one of the absolute best shooters in the state. He’s an incredible marksman who shines as a knockdown threat from midrange and beyond the arc. Mills hits jumpers off the bounce and coming off movement with consistency, but seemingly doesn’t miss catch-and-shoot jumpers. He knows his strengths as well as any player you’ll find, understanding how to take advantage of any open looks, make the extra pass when available, and defending effectively within the team structure. Mills is an incredible teammate and low-maintenance piece who excels within his role. Add in his motor and willingness to do the dirty work, and it’s easy to see his value.
Although we see fewer gritty, blue-collar guys nowadays, someone like Drew Neve still clearly fits the bill. He’s an absolute workhorse whose motor, toughness, athleticism, and nose for the ball make him a real problem for opponents on both ends of the floor. At 6-foot-4, Neve plays much bigger than his listed height to reliably defend bigger opponents and secure rebounds at a strong rate. He’s the first player to dive on the floor or sacrifice his body to make a hustle play. Offensively, Neve is a strong finisher, useful perimeter shooter, and capable threat off the bounce. He frequently plays above the rim for lobs and putbacks, but doesn’t need a ton of touches to make an impact. Neve’s approach, unselfishness, and dawg-like mentality make him a major asset for this squad.
Rounding out this group, Will Hall has obvious appeal despite being the newest addition to the roster. He’s a long, wiry wing/forward with an enticing blend of size, skill, and athleticism. Hall continues to add strength while maintaining his ability to create matchup problems based on assignment. He shoots the ball well from the perimeter, plays above the rim, and knows how to make plays off the bounce. Hall displays nice defensive instincts and forces turnovers at a solid rate. Although he still has considerable upside, his presence should vault this group to another level.