The Greyhounds at Statesville had a strong overall season, as they were able to make noise, end the season with a winning overall record, and be a contender in their conference. Statesville High School finished the season with a 15-11 overall record that included several strong wins.
Now, there will be some turnover from last year as key seniors have graduated from the program. Caleb Tillman will certainly be missed with his production, finishing the season averaging 13 points and 4.6 rebounds. Kevin Bryant was right behind him as well, as he filed up the statsheet for the Greyhounds last season. These two seniors were big parts of the team’s success last year, and they will be hard to replace.
However, this is a team that has two key guys who will be returning next season, and they will need to elevate their level of play to continue the team’s success or push the program to even new heights.
2027 MJ Gladden led the charge last year, posting averages of 15.3ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.2apg, 2.4spg, and 1.3bpg, showing that he can have his hand in his team’s success on both ends. He showed that he may be looking to take the next step for his team, as he had a big showing during the high school LIVE period, averaging 20ppg, 5rpg, 2apg, 3spg, and 1bpg. The 6’4 prospect captured our eyes last year, as we had this to say:
“A 6’3 prospect with a very long wingspan and athleticism, Gladden brings a ton of versatility to the court. He can play multiple positions, uses his length to attack the rim, shows the ability to pull up and knock down shots, and active defender as well. There is a lot of potential in his game, and he should be an under-the-radar type prospect to watch for.”
Next to him will be 2028 Paul Cauthen, a rising guard that has proven himself even more this summer and looks to be in for a breakout type season. There is a lot to like about this young man and he is proving to be a difference-maker on both sides of the court. The 6’1 guard proved that just like Gladden did, averaging 20ppg, 6rpg, 5apg, and 2spg during the high school LIVE period. He is a quick and athletic guard who controls the game in a variety of ways, as we have written about him on several occasions.
“Cauthen was one that caught the attention of our scouts with his play, and then to learn that he will still be in middle school made of even more excited. You could see that Cauthen understands and has a strong feel for the game at a young age. Cauthen showed flashes all throughout, attacking and being assertive, scoring off the dribble, finishing through defenders, and applying consistent pressure downhill and scoring.”
The duo of Gladden and Cauthen could be one to really keep an eye on, as they look to carry the torch for Statesville High School into a new era. With their blend of athleticism, versatility, and proven production, Gladden and Cauthen have the tools to lead the Greyhounds back to contention and beyond. As they step into larger leadership roles, expect both players to continue developing into notable prospects in North Carolina. The foundation is in place, and if the supporting cast can rise to the occasion, this Statesville team could take the next step forward in the upcoming season.