There are so many factors that go into winning at the highest levels. Talent is an obvious requirement, but coaching, discipline, structure, and countless other variables play a massive role. It’s almost underappreciated when teams figure out the recipe, as dominance simply becomes the expectation rather than an unlikely occurrence. This sentiment feels somewhat applicable to Reidsville—a team most have already inked as a title-favorite. They’ve been nothing short of unstoppable for the last three seasons, going 67-1 and suffering their only loss to Farmville Central in the state championship two years ago. So, what makes this group so special?

While the Rams are definitely a well-rounded team with several college prospects, it’s difficult to ignore everything Dionte Neal does as a leader and focal point. Small or not, Neal truly annihilates everyone in his path. He’s extremely poised, tough, and intelligent. Neal effortlessly dictates the action with the ball in his hands, displaying a crafty handle, excellent vision, and polished scoring prowess from all levels. He utilizes his quickness to reliably break down defenders, touch the paint, and consistently make the correct read. Neal is also a pesky defender who mirrors opposing ball-handlers and forces turnovers at an impressive rate. He’s a pure gamer whose production is impossible to ignore. This season, Neal is averaging 22.8 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 9.2 APG, and 7.2 SPG with insane 53/41/90 splits. To reiterate: he’s averaging a near triple-double with steals (!!!) and unbelievable efficiency. Neal is a winner in every sense of the word.

Several guys on this roster are having big seasons, and Johnniyus Sharpe has been incredibly valuable to their team’s success. Some could say he’s having a breakout season but there’s never really been any doubt surrounding Sharpe or his ability. Between his skill, athleticism, and impactful identity on both ends of the floor, he has a lot to like. Sharpe is comfortable initiating the offense or creating for others, but is arguably at his best when looking to apply pressure as a scorer from all levels. He also stands out as a tough, physical defender and reliable threat in transition. Right now, he’s averaging 22.0 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 3.0 APG, and 2.0 SPG with 46/36/73 splits. Sharpe is definitely a scholarship-level player who should appeal to a ton of college coaches.

Although the duo mentioned above would be enough for most teams to make noise, a physical anomaly like Kendre Harrison makes this group an absolute nightmare for opponents. The Oregon football commit is a highly physical, explosive big man with incredible strength and unique athleticism. Despite being built like a tank, Harrison moves very well for his size. He lurks for lobs/putbacks, blocks shots at a high volume, and effortlessly controls the glass on both ends of the floor. He consistently finishes above and below the rim and displays useful vision for his size. Harrison is posting nightly averages of 12.3 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 1.4 SPG, and 2.6 BPG with 57% FG.
Rounding out this group, guys like Kristian Scales and Cam’Ron Jones also play vital roles for the Rams. Scales is a Norfolk State baseball commit but adds a meaningful wrinkle to this group. He’s a reliable shooter with size, rebounding instincts, and a low-maintenance presence on both ends of the floor. Meanwhile, Jones excels at doing the dirty work. He’s a strong, physically imposing forward who defends with energy and rebounds at a high volume. Jones is a capable finisher but doesn’t need touches to impact a game.
Ultimately, we are watching something special unfold. We’ve been spoiled with similar groups at the public-school level (Southwest Guilford, Central Cabarrus), but it’s unclear when something like this will happen again. There’s still another season and a half left for Neal and Harrison to determine their legacy, but this entire group has already firmly stamped their place in history.