2026 6’2 Ian Bailey (Asheville School)
Bailey was one of several players at the NC Top 80 that we expect to have big seasons. Bailey had a breakout season last year, as outlets from all over started to notice his game and impact. When talking about his game, the first thing you must notice is his overall feel on the court; being a playmaker, making tremendous reads, facilitating to his teammates, playing with poise and patience, and being a strong scoring option. Bailey can be a true playmaker for himself or others and expect him to be one of the key leaders again this season.
2026 5’9 Dionte Neal (Reidsville)
Neal has proven to everyone that he is one of the top guards in the state; one can’t deny his presence and impact on the court. Whether it is on the offensive or defensive end, Neal finds ways to produce for his team and make winning plays. Defensively, he can be a pest on the ball, using his quickness to his advantage and having a knack to get into the passing lanes, creating turnovers. Offensively, he does a tremendous job of bringing a balanced feel to attacking and creating for himself, but he also knows how to run the offense for his team. He already has had tremendous success and that should only continue this season.
2026 6’2 Chaise Smith (Washington)
One of the more dynamic guards in the state, Smith gave us those glimpses of his impact at the NC Top 80. Coming off a season in which he nearly averaged 20 points per game, Smith has not only shown his ability to be a three-level scorer but also his improvement in being a facilitator for others as well. He creates well with good athleticism and can knock down shots from multiple areas with a lot of confidence. Smith is easily one of the top guards out east for North Carolina and should be earning attention from college programs.
2026 6’4 Jim Gatehouse (South Meck)
Gatehouse is a player we have highlighted before on several occasions, and we are eager to see more of what he can do this upcoming season, but we are expecting a big season. Gatehouse is able to bring strong value to the court in different scenarios; he can find his role in being a shooter and high IQ guard with more talent around him but also can fill it up when he needs to. With his blend of size, strength, and skill set, Gatehouse continues to bring more attention his way with his play and this season could be a big one for him.