6’6 Mekhi Allen (Queens Grant)
Despite already being widely regarded as a top prospect in North Carolina’s Class of 2028 (and rightfully so), it feels like Allen is poised to take the next step in his progression. The 6-foot-6 wing is coming off an impressive travel ball season where he found a lot of success playing up an age group for 4:44 Athletics. Allen was already a double-digit scorer as a freshman, but now he’ll be able to tighten things up and improve his overall efficiency. He’s at his best when keeping things simple, taking advantage of open looks, and expanding as needed. Allen has also gotten bigger and stronger throughout the summer. Between his physical tools and blossoming skillset, the appeal is obvious. Expect him to take a major leap.
6’7 Aaron Parker (Southeast Raleigh)
There are so many intriguing prospects throughout the state right now, and Parker is as tantalizing as anyone. He’s an extremely long, explosive wing who has visibly sprouted up over the recent months. Parker always possessed favorable physical attributes, but his sudden growth only made him more appealing. Between his high motor, impressive athleticism, and ability to make plays with or without the ball in his hands, he’s a very enticing player. Parker constantly flies around to secure rebounds, wreak havoc defensively, and constantly play above the rim. Although very explosive, he displays useful ball skills, shooting ability, and two-way feel for the game. Parker has the chance to be a special prospect based on his current trajectory.
6’6 Roman Solheim (Northwest Guilford)
Although people have started to get familiar with Solheim over the recent months, it’s still unclear if folks fully recognize his appeal. At 6-foot-6, he’s a real matchup problem for opponents. Solheim is a very skilled player with the feel, ball skills, and shooting ability to operate in basically any role offensively. He’s shown the ability to initiate the offense, create for himself and others, and set the tone as a scorer. Solheim’s combination of size and inside-out skill is typically too much for the majority of opponents to handle. He’s able to post up and score around the basket against smaller defenders or merely draw bigger defenders out to the perimeter. Add in his high motor, defensive instincts, and rebounding prowess, and it’s easy to see him having an incredibly productive season.