The stars aligning in basketball situations is more common than folks probably realize. Think of the Langley’s at Southwest Guilford, the Daniel’s at Central Cabarrus, or what’s currently going on at Reidsville with Dionte Neal and Kendre Harrison. It might sound simple, but these circumstances only require quality coaching, talented players, and a culture that produces winning. Though basic, it’s still an uphill battle to fulfill each of those categories. That being said, it feels like this could be a special year for Fort Mill and their collection of notable pieces. Coach Myron Lowery arguably has his most well-rounded group in recent memory and should certainly compete for a state title. Let’s look at their core…
Everything starts with the senior trio of Wallace Campbell, AJ Washington, and George Stewart. Campbell continues to showcase a versatile, well-rounded identity and the ability to produce in several different roles. He’s able to naturally cause matchup problems through his combination of handle, vision, and scoring prowess, especially at his size. Campbell is a quality rebounder and switchable defender with the physical tools and instincts to consistently make plays on both ends of the floor. His ability to do everything offensively makes him a real problem for opponents. Last season, he averaged 12.0 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 2.2 APG, and 1.2 BPG with 55/41/77 splits. Campbell is already a priority for college coaches but should continue to collect offers over the coming months.
Meanwhile, Washington returns to the Yellow Jackets after spending one season at Davidson Day. He pairs exceptionally well alongside his running mate above, as he’s another highly well-rounded piece who can impact all facets of the game while actively toggling between various roles. Washington possesses a nice blend of IQ, creation skills, and scoring polish with the ability to play with or without the ball in his hands. He’s a solid all-around athlete and reliable defender who has the size to guard multiple positions. Washington is also a useful rebounder. His highly malleable game should make him a definite target for all types of college coaches.
Rounding out their senior trio, Stewart appears to operate as a glue-guy for this group. He provides a meaningful blend of IQ, motor, and adaptability. Stewart is a reliable shooter who can handle the ball, set up others, and create his own shot. He understands how to naturally fill in the gaps on both ends of the floor but is more than capable of expanding his production as needed. Stewart defends with quality energy, makes hustle plays, and scores with efficiency. He’ll be another guy for coaches to watch.
Though young, Jermier Nelson might have as much appeal as anyone on this roster. The rising sophomore is coming off an impressive freshman season with averages of 12.4 PPG, 2.6 RPG, and 1.0 SPG while shooting 50% from the floor. Nelson is a smart, heady floor general with sharp quickness and the ability to consistently get downhill. He breaks down opponents well to touch the paint at a high volume, where he’s able to finish or set up others at a quality rate. Nelson is a capable perimeter shooter, but is at his best when attacking the basket. Defensively, he’s a pest at the point of attack and utilizes his length well to force turnovers. In addition to being a key piece for this current group, Nelson should be the clear focal point over the foreseeable future.