6’10 ’24 Caden Giles (Nation Ford)
It’s pretty easy to see the appeal of Giles, a 6-foot-10 big man with length, mobility, and two-way instincts. He finishes well out of the post, but also displays touch on his jumper and an understanding of how to find opportunities as a cutter. Giles is a solid all-around athlete with a steady interior presence on both ends of the floor. He alters shots well, runs the floor properly in transition, and capitalizes on offense whenever possible. Giles absorbs contact around the basket, both as a finisher and rebounder, and commonly outworks opponents for loose balls. Various schools have gotten involved with his recruitment, so expect his offer sheet to continue growing over these next few months.
6’6 ’24 Jayden Pretty (Ridge View)
Given how much we’ve seen him over the summer, it shouldn’t surprise anyone to see Pretty continuing to showcase his abilities as a college-level player. He’s a quality post prospect with a strong frame and reliable scoring arsenal on the block. That being said, Pretty has also improved as a passer, shooter, and overall athlete. He does a great job of carving out space, playing through contact, and scoring with either hand around the basket. Pretty consistently rebounds his position and makes his presence felt defensively. Considering how he’s led and produced throughout the summer, Pretty should be a target for a slew of programs.
6’2 ’24 Justin Skelton (Spring Valley)
The Spring Valley roster is littered with tough, competitive guys, and that certainly includes Skelton. He’s a smart, unselfish, well-rounded guard that simply stands out as a reliable piece on both ends of the floor. Skelton can create for himself and others, score from all levels, and effectively contain his assignment defensively. He’s a quality decision-maker with a willingness to prioritize the best available option. Skelton pursues rebounds, gets to his spots in transition, and consistently impacts all facets of the game. He led and shined as a great teammate. Skelton has a definite place at the next level.
5’10 ’24 Ladarius Cloud (Lancaster)
Generally speaking, tough, intense defensive players are becoming less and less common within the grassroots landscape. However, Cloud is easily one of the most rugged, bloodthirsty players across the Carolinas. He’s an excellent defender at the point of attack, showing the ability to mirror opposing point guards and suffocate them into constant miscues. Cloud plays with a nonstop motor and obvious toughness. Additionally, he’s proven himself as a quick, heady playmaker and penetrator with quality vision and a tight handle. Cloud can play through contact, knock down the occasional jumper, and simply outwork opponents on both ends of the floor. Expect him to appeal to various programs.