Has the race for North Carolina Player of the Year already begun — and is Justin Caldwell positioning himself at the top? Through the opening stretch of the season, the Fayetteville Academy star has delivered powerful, dominant performances that are forcing his name into every major conversation across the state. From his overwhelming physical presence to his consistent production on both ends of the floor, Caldwell has looked every bit the part of a frontrunner. After another standout showing at the Hoops and Dreams Showcase, the momentum continues to build, as his impact, leadership, and game-altering ability have him making an early statement on one of the biggest stages in North Carolina high school basketball.
Our scout, Jeffrey Bendel, had high praise after another outstanding performance at the Hoops and Dreams Showcase, having this to say after the event:
“Unsurprisingly, Justin Caldwell stood out as a physically imposing force. He’s an incredibly strong, athletic post player with a terrific frame and the ability to anchor the paint on both ends of the floor. Caldwell finishes extremely well around the basket, both through contact and above the rim, and can capitalize on his opportunities in transition. He’s a quality two-way rebounder who carves out space effectively to secure position around the basket. Caldwell is a useful shot-blocker who runs the floor properly in transition.”
People know what Caldwell brings to the table, but he has been a dominant figure to start the season at Fayetteville Academy, averaging an impressive 29.4 points and 10.0 rebounds per game and putting the Eagles clearly in the mix as a title contender this season.
Caldwell is such an imposing big man here in North Carolina, and he looks to be a perfect fit at the next level at Georgetown, and the physicality that the Big East brings. He overpowers so many opponents with his size and strength, getting to his spots down in the post, scoring through contact with ease, and playing with a relentless motor on the glass.
It is easy to see why Georgetown had so much appeal with him and his impact. With his recruitment now behind him, Caldwell clearly looks locked in to lead his team to a title this year as well as putting his name on the early list as North Carolina Player of the Year honors… but the season is still long, and time will only tell.