Given how things fluctuated throughout the high school basketball landscape over the last decade or so, many teams have dealt with real ups and downs. While it’s often more applicable to public-school squads, we’ve even seen private and independent schools losing their kids to programs from other states. This is nothing new. However, there should be optimism about the general restoration of public-school basketball. Take Northwest Guilford, for example. They’ve had dozens of college players come through their doors, but lacked their usual amount of talent over these lack few years. Fortunately, that seems likely to change. Let’s look at a few of the Vikings that folks should be excited about…
Everything ultimately starts and ends with 6-foot-6 Roman Solheim. The rising sophomore has shown an incredible amount of skill and two-way ability for someone of his size and age. He’s able to initiate the offense, score as an inside-out piece, and set the tone on the glass. Solheim possesses a long, wiry frame and has somewhat of an unassuming nature, but is a real competitor with a high motor and physical approach. His energy and toughness allow him to control the glass, secure second-chance opportunities, and push the break in transition. Solheim can score from the post, hit jumpers along the perimeter, or attack off the bounce. He’s also a smart and willing passer who sees the floor well at all times. Solheim contains his assignment well and is capable of guarding multiple positions defensively. His IQ, skillset, and general involvement are already very impressive, so it’ll be fascinating to see how he develops over these next few years for the Vikings.
Meanwhile, guys like DaMarco Boyles and Trent Van Wert provide real value to this group. Boyles is a young prospect who provides a terrific blend of size, athleticism, and physicality. He already stands out through his rugged defense, active rebounding, and strong finishing ability as a downhill threat. Boyles naturally does the dirty work but is also a key scorer and overall two-way piece for this group. Meanwhile, Van Wert is a reliable shooting threat who knows how to move without the ball and knock down open jumpers. He’s capable of attacking closeouts and making the extra pass, but primarily looks to play to his strengths. Both guys should be x-factors this season. Folks should expect this group to trend upward over these next few years.