The culture is about to drastically change at Alexander Central. These last two seasons have been somewhat of an uphill battle after highly successful, long-tenured coach Ed Wills stepped away. However, the hiring of Grant Hodges should bring a lot of optimism for the immediate future of the Cougars’ program. What does this have to do with Connor? For a guy who has rapidly improved and physically developed over these last few years, he needs to be in a position to continue blossoming. Connor was arguably the most productive player in North Carolina last season, and it was largely overlooked by the masses. Let’s take a closer look at his individual production and general profile as a prospect…
Going back a few years allows us to fully appreciate how far he’s come. As a 6-foot-0 sophomore, Connor averaged 11.8 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 3.8 APG, and 1.4 SPG. Really not too shabby for a regular-sized underclassman playing on varsity. That being said, it would be impossible to predict what would happen next. Connor grows a ridiculous five inches and becomes more explosive while now possessing the physical advantages to really dominate opponents. In his junior year, he essentially elevated his numbers across the board with averages of 27.8 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 2.6 APG, 2.6 SPG, and 1.1 BPG. His game transformed, and the numbers followed closely behind. To put it in perspective, Connor is the most prolific scorer of anyone who averaged double-digit rebounds (and it’s not close). Add in the steals and blocks (3.7 per game), and it’s clear that he needs more attention. So, while it might sound foolish for him to have a “breakout” season, more folks should be buzzing.
Coming off a highly productive travel ball season (where he might’ve legitimately grown another inch or two), the excitement should be high. Connor’s numbers speak for themselves, but his actual identity is also very appealing. He’s a strong, powerful athlete with an excellent frame, high motor, and excellent nose for the ball. Connor possesses terrific two-way versatility. At 6-foot-6, he’s a matchup problem for the vast majority of opponents. Smaller defenders get bullied while bigger defenders cannot deal with his general athleticism or perimeter skill. Connor possesses a well-rounded skillset, but knows how to play to his strengths and create advantages for himself. He’s a phenomenal finisher with the ability to consistently get downhill, lurk for putbacks, or find opportunities as a cutter. Connor displays feel and polish as a creator, but doesn’t need the ball to be effective. His energy, toughness, and physicality allow him to secure rebounds at a high level on both ends of the floor. Connor can also reliably defend multiple positions. Given all his enticing traits and considerable upside remaining, Connor is definitely a prospect worthy of attention from scholarship-level coaches.