6’4 ’26 Kingston Beale (Garner)
It’s easy to see the appeal of someone like Beale, who has the size, athleticism, and versatility to do a lot of different things on the court. At 6-foot-4, he’s a very malleable piece. Due to his motor and quality nose for the ball, Beale defends and rebounds much bigger than his listed height. He knows how to outwork opponents for loose balls and extra possessions. Offenisvely, Beale can knock down open jumpers, attack in straight lines to the basket, and finish above the rim or through contact. He’s also a willing passer who knows how to fill in the gaps on both ends of the floor.
5’9 ’26 Malik McCotter (Chambers)
Given all the departures from Chambers, McCotter will need to take another step forward for this group. He’s a small, scrappy lead guard who knows how to dictate the action for this group. McCotter consistently hits three-pointers and makes plays off the bounce while setting up others at a solid rate. He’s a pesky defender with the necessary quickness and anticipation to force turnovers at the point of attack. Expect him to be a major x-factor for this group.
6’5 ’26 Cameron Thompson (Chambers)
Similar to the entry above, Thompson will absolutely need to assert himself as a leader for the betterment of this team. At 6-foot-5, he’s able to consistently affect all facets of the game. Thompson is a switchable defender who can toggle up and down a lineup due to his size, instincts, and athleticism. He possesses a wiry build with long arms and a physical nature. Thompson finishes well around the basket but also has the ability to knock down jumpers or attack off the bounce. He’s a great rebounder and willing passer who simply does whatever this team needs. Expect his production to skyrocket this season.
5’10 ’26 Beckett Coon (Fuquay-Varina)
Between his perimeter shooting and craftiness as a creator, it’s easy to see what makes Coon a key piece for this group. He’s a lethal threat from beyond the arc but also breaks down opponents to touch the paint or assert himself in the midrange. Given his ability to cut and knock down jumpers, Coon is impactful with or without the ball in his hands. He’s also a quality passer who sees the floor well when attacking. Coon provides solid energy as an on-ball defender and is capable of making hustle plays.
6’2 ’26 Abdou Diop (Fuquay-Varina)
Rounding out this group, Diop is someone who should be ready to take the next step as a two-way leader. He’s a balanced lead guard who knows how to set up others while consistently finding ways to apply scoring pressure. Diop does a quality job of breaking down opponents to touch the paint and finish or pull-up from midrange. He’s a willing passer who sets up others at a solid rate. Diop defends with energy and toughness. He forces turnovers at a solid rate and knows how to push the break in transition.