By: Cooper Hart
Kaden Hammond – 2025 – The Burlington School
The newest addition to the TBS roster, Kaden gives them much needed frontcourt depth. In the first game of the tournament, he displayed his ability to score with touch and efficiency, putting up 12 points on 5/8 shooting. He scored in a variety of ways, using great touch on layups, hooks, and short jumpers. He also added 9 rebounds and 2 blocks, both team highs. TBS desperately needs someone to take on the scoring load outside of Zion Walker and Hammond may be the one to do it.
Kobe George – 2024 – Winston Salem Christian
In WSCS’ 13-point win, Kobe George led the team with a 20 +/-. His steady hand at the guard position cannot be overstated. In 21 minutes, George had 9 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and shot 3/5 from the field. That type of low maintenance production is essential to a team with as much talent as WSCS. He will be tasked with a big matchup in the semifinals of the TJ Warren bracket as both Word of God (Freddie Dilione, Isaiah Coleman, Davin Cosby Jr) and Raleigh Christian (Jakel Powell, Nic Anthony) have extremely talented backcourts.
Ryan Crotty – 2024 – Holly Springs
Ryan had a breakout performance in Holly Springs’ first round loss to Farmville Central. The junior put up 19 points and made 4/6 of his three-point attempts. He continues to show off the ability to create his own shot, a trait of his that has drastically improved in the 4-8 months. He’s also rapidly improved as a defender, being able to slide his feet and stay in front of quicker guards. The potential as a weakside rim protector is there and he still has room to grow as an overall athlete. The ceiling is very high for Ryan and he should be one to watch as he finishes out his junior season.
Isaiah Brown – 2024 – Don Bosco Prep
Isaiah made a strong impression today, putting up 12p, 4r, 4a, on 5/8 shooting. He showcased a strong ability to control the game, something that not a lot of high school guards can do. He has a strong frame and has good instincts, enabling him to guard bigger guards and wings. He has great feel for the game, something that can be seen in the reads he makes after he gets into the paint. The John Wall provides opportunities for players to breakout onto the national stage every year, and so far, Isaiah is taking full advantage of it.
Gabe Cerda – 2023 – Millbrook
Gabe finished with a team high in points (24), assists (5), and steals (4) in Millbrook’s opening round win against Southern Durham. He was elite at getting to the line, finishing with 13 attempts and converting 11 of them. He took advantage of broken plays and generally created his chances out of chaos, scoring in transition and off of closeouts. Gabe is known as one of the best defenders in the Raleigh area and rightfully so, but I don’t think his offensive production gets talked about enough. He’s one of the top assist guys in the state and this 24-point game shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise given that he’s been this team’s third option all year.