After getting another extended look at the Dudley this past weekend, one could argue that they have the necessary pieces to be one of the better public-school teams in North Carolina. This group is consistently in the mix within the greater Triad area, but should certainly take a step forward this season. Let’s take a closer look at their veteran-laden roster…
Returning seniors like Darius Barnett, Vermont Carmack, and Bryce McKenzie should each occupy similar roles to last season. Barnett sets the tone through his activity, physicality, and adaptable, well-rounded identity. He excels getting downhill and finishing or setting up others but can also knock down jumpers at a respectable rate. Barnett is capable of initiating the offense or playing without the ball and finding success. He’s a rugged defender and strong rebounder for his size/position. Carmack is a long, wiry forward with a high motor and the ability to defend bigger than his size. He consistently impacts the game through his effort, toughness, and willingness to do the dirty work. Carmack’s defense, rebounding, and general intensity makes him a key piece. McKenzie is a scrappy guard with useful handle, scoring polish, and defensive ability. Each guy should be vital to the success of this group.
They’ve added multiple pieces in Brodie Atkins and Jadiah Outing, who each bring their own dynamic to this group. Atkins is a crafty shot-maker who can fill it up from midrange or beyond the arc. He’s comfortable operating as a spot-up threat, but is more than capable of creating his own shot or setting up others off the bounce. Atkins will bring some much-needed shooting to this team. Meanwhile, Outing is a heady lead guard with quickness and a quality change of pace. He’s able to break down opponents, attack off the bounce, and mix it up as a scorer from multiple levels. Outing is also a solid on-ball defender with the ability to keep opposing guards in front.
Furthermore, guys like Nyshawn Hughes and Kameron Taylor should have clear value as well. Hughes seems to gradually make strides with each new viewing, highlighting blossoming versatility and the ability to impact all facets of the game. He’s steadily improved as a creator and overall scoring option, but is also capable of finding success without needing the ball in his hands. Hughes rebounds well and effectively defends multiple positions, but still has plenty of upside remaining. On the other hand, Taylor stands out as a meaningful utility piece whose motor, toughness, and physicality allow him to affect the game without needing a ton of touches. He’s capable of mixing it up as a scorer from all levels, but always stands out through his willingness to make hustle plays and do the dirty work. Given everyone listed, this group definitely has the pieces to make some noise this season.