Team: New Bern Bears
As of 1/24/26:
As the high school basketball season across North Carolina moves deeper into its schedule, teams are beginning to separate themselves and establish identities as true contenders. Wins are stacking up, momentum is building, and programs around the state are making noise with their sights set on strong playoff runs. Phenom Hoops is taking a closer look at several teams putting together impressive seasons, highlighting the talent, depth, and consistency that continue to shape the high school basketball landscape across North Carolina.
Continuing our look around the state of North Carolina, we now look at New Bern as the Bears have been having another strong season. Phenom Hoops was able to get a look at this team not long ago, as they were able to squeak away with a narrow victory. Though they have had some battles throughout the season, they have shown that they are a team worth noting this year, especially with the strong play from their duo.
When you talk about this team, 2027 Terry Riggins and 2029 AJ Scott are the two names you have to start with. Riggins has been strong for much of the season, leading the way at around 16 points per game this season. He brings length, leadership, and athleticism to the table for this team, attacking well out in the open floor and finding ways to get to the rim consistently. Scott, a notable freshman that we talked about not long ago, has been really good and seems to be waking up a few more fans with his play. He has a lot of intangibles in his game that you have to like, as the 6’5 prospect shows big-time flashes of being one of the top players in the state for his class. He can get to the rim and finish with authority, score over defenders, operate from outside, and bring value in other areas of the floor.
Is 2029 6’5 AJ Scott the Next Big Player Out East in North Carolina?
Read: https://www.phenomhoopreport.com/is-2029-65-aj-scott-the-next-big-player-out-east-in-north-carolina/
But, outside the strong duo for New Bern, there are others that have stepped up to help this team average 70ppg on the season. 2026 Amari Reddick, 2027 Nicholas Jewell, 2026 Shelby Cherry, and others all help chip in for this team, as they hope to continue to make noise this season and build more upon this season.