Arguably, no public-school program in North Carolina has seen more talent come through their doors over the last few years than Chambers. They’ve had players like Jaylen Curry, Daniel Sanford, Daniel Ransom, Maurio Hanson, Trey Green, Nick Dorn, Osvaldo Haynes, Tarris Bouie, Markus Kerr, and countless other college-level players. However, the recent departures of Bouie and Kerr leave Coach Frasier and the Cougars in somewhat of an unfamiliar position. Although they still have more talent than the vast majority of rosters across the North Carolina landscape, this is their least amount of “star power” in several years.
This might be seen as a negative to some, but it’ll actually be an interesting shift on the basketball court. The idea of a free-flowing system designed for each of their key pieces to shine sounds excellent. After years of being a malleable glue-guy and utility piece, Cameron Thompson looks prepared to take the next step as a leader for this group. Even in the few viewings during June, it’s easy to see how much he’s expanded his overall game. Thompson still naturally impacts all facets of the game while showing increased ability as an initiator, creator, and scorer from all levels. His rebounding and ability to toggle between multiple positions defensively will be a massive key for this group. Thompson’s impactful nature and productive leadership by example should make him a priority for scholarship-level coaches.
Additionally, the likes of Malik McCotter, QJ Young, and Zyon White will each need to take steps forward within their respective developments. Their other senior leader, McCotter, will be an important piece as a smart, scrappy lead guard who knows how to set up others and knock down perimeter jumpers. He’s a pesky defender at the point of attack and anticipates well to force turnovers defensively. Already a productive player from last year’s squad, expect him to be a huge x-factor for this group. Meanwhile, Young has shown clear progression as a long, wiry creator with feel, vision, and scoring prowess. He utilizes his length well to be disruptive defensively. Lastly, White might be the best shooter and spot-up threat on the team. He’s a long, skinny guard who can consistently move without the ball, find open seams, and knock down jumpers. White defends with energy and makes the extra pass as needed.
Although those four will likely burden most of the nightly production, this pipeline is certainly going to have multiple others contributors emerge before the upcoming season. The Cougars will still be one of the most competitive teams in North Carolina, especially after the classification realignment. Expect this group to surprise folks and attract college coaches over the coming months.