As the Class of 2029 continues to take shape across the region, several South Carolina freshmen are already making a noticeable impact at the varsity level. From productive post presences to dynamic guards and high-energy playmakers, this group has wasted no time showing they belong. Early in their high school careers, these underclassmen are not only contributing to winning but also establishing themselves as names to know moving forward. Below, we take a closer look at a handful of freshmen who are already making their mark in South Carolina.
2029 Sully Templeton (Wando)
Templeton has been a player of interest over the last few years early on, and he is clearly continuing to make his mark down in South Carolina. Down at Wando High School, Templeton is showing his ability and understanding to produce, being a key player for his team with his production around the basket. On the season, he is averaging an impressive 12.7ppg along with 5.7rpg, as he shines with him being a strong-bodied post presence. Again, he has shown himself to be a polished scorer and has clearly made a name for himself down in South Carolina as a freshman.
2029 AJ Cureton / 2029 Makai McKnight (Nation Ford)
Nation Ford has had a good season so far, and the play of two freshman have been key. Cureton and McKnight have both been able to produce and make their presence felt. Cureton is one we have watched on a few occasions, as he flourishes as a true point guard. He can score and create, display speed, is a playmaker on the court, and a presence defensively. McKnight is another guard who has found ways to produce as a scorer, being an effective presence from multiple levels. These two look like clear guards to watch in the South Carolina area.
2029 Kam Rice (Wren)
Rice is a player that I’ve talked about and introduced back this summer, as there were a lot of intangibles that stood out in his game. Just a freshman, he stood out with his leadership and ability to impact the game in a variety of ways, especially with his size and length already. He is showing just that at Wren, averaging 11.4ppg, 5.7rpg, 3.1apg, and 2.9spg in helping lead his team. He can break down defenders and create for himself, score in a variety of ways, and shows potential with his game.
2029 Khiry White (Irmo)
White is another name that has impressed me in the past and has clearly continued that same success early on in his high school career. On the season, he has been averaging 10.2ppg, 5.9rpg, 1.5spg, and nearly one block per game, as Irmo has been having a strong season, sitting at 15-5 overall. White thoug,h is one that brings energy, length, size, and scoring ability around the basket. He is active on the glass, finishes well at the rim, and plays with a strong motor that can outwork opponents. It has been clear that he is going to be a name you hear about more down in SC.