As the high school season approaches the halfway point, everyone should have a much clearer picture of contending teams, breakout players, and everything in between. Although there hasn’t been a ton of parity this year, it’s arguably been one of the most interesting and entertaining seasons in recent memory. Every contest seems to have some takeaway or subplot to monitor. Since our Hoops and Dreams Showcase last month, Kingsley Donaldson of Union Pines has been on an absolute tear. After setting an event record for points (44) and rebounds (24), he’s only continued to dominate. Let’s take a closer look…
Currently posting nightly averages of 24.5 PPG, 16.0 RPG, and 1.6 BPG, it’s difficult to be anything other than impressed. Right now, Donaldson is first in rebounding and just outside the top ten in scoring across North Carolina. Given the structure of Union Pines, it’s easy to see how he’s able to legitimately dominate basically every night. Offensively, Donaldson knows how to apply consistent pressure from ten feet and in. He’s arguably at his best when posting up and scoring within the paint, but can also knock down midrange jumpers at a nice percentage. Donaldson utilizes his high motor and long arms to reliably control the glass on both ends of the floor. He’s capable of pushing the break if needed, but primarily looks to fill the lane and capitalize on easy scoring chances in transition. Donaldson also does a great job of seizing second-chance opportunities.
It’s somewhat shocking to see his lack of recruitment since Thanksgiving. Wake Tech recently joined Fisher College as the only schools to extend offers to the 6-foot-7 forward. His combination of size, skill, fluidity, and two-way instincts should make him an obvious target for a variety of programs. Expect him to continue putting up eye-popping numbers over the next few months.