6’5 ’27 Jagger Emerson (Greensboro Day)
Although a lot of other guys on this roster receive a ton of attention, Emerson will be a major x-factor for this group. He provides a veteran presence with the IQ, skill, and athleticism to operate in various different roles on the court. Emerson does a terrific job of filling in the gaps as a well-rounded piece and finding production within the flow of the action on both ends of the floor. He’s a willing passer who knows how to attack off the bounce, knock down jumpers, and make his presence felt as a cutter or spot-up threat. Emerson also has a nice middle game. He’s a reliable defender and rebounder whose motor, positioning, and nose for the ball allow him to consistently make plays.
6’2 ’29 Amari Winters (Cannon)
After his recent transfer to Cannon, it has taken Winters no time at all to establish himself as a focal point for the Cougars. The skilled, crafty guard is able to fill it up in a healthy variety of ways and effectively operate from either backcourt spot. Winters displayed the ability to dictate the action as a primary option, create for himself and others, and score the ball from all levels. He’s a quality shooter, both from midrange and beyond the arc, who finishes well around the basket for his size. Winters possesses great a feel for the game, especially as an on-ball creator, and highlights nice instincts on both ends of the floor. Expect his stock to rise as his body continues to develop.
6’0 ’28 Jaylon Bowden (Gaston Day)
In a time when so many players care so much about scoring totals and highlight-reel plays, Bowden is a breath of fresh air. He’s a tough, heady guard with incredible quickness, anticipation, and overall defensive ability. Bowden suffocates opposing ball-handlers for the length of the floor, legitimately harassing opponents into a constant stream of miscues, errant passes, and forced turnovers. He’s physical enough to overwhelm opponents, yet quick enough to mirror guards without fouling. Bowden plays the passing lanes really well, regularly getting deflections or interceptions, but can also just snatch the ball away with relative ease. Offensively, he does a nice job of initiating the offense, getting downhill as a penetrator, and knocking down open shots. Bowden will be a key piece for this group.
6’1 ’27 Julian Hernandez (NRCA)
On a roster full of young prospects, Hernandez stands out as a valuable veteran piece with polish, shot-making, and the ability to fill it up in a hurry. He’s a lethal shooting threat, especially from beyond the arc, who heats up quickly and is capable of knocking down jumpers at a high volume. Hernandez is capable of attacking closeouts, making the extra pass, and setting up others, but is arguably at his best when moving without the ball and applying pressure as a spot-up threat. He’s a pesky defender who plays with nice energy on both ends of the floor.