6’5 ’27 Bryce Chapman (Bishop McGuinness)
There are a lot of guys who have the potential for breakout seasons, and that certainly includes Chapman. In addition to growing and getting stronger, Chapman’s game is evolving. He’s always been a quality finisher with the ability to move without the ball and score around the basket. However, his game is expanding towards the perimeter. Chapman showcased an intriguing amount of versatility as an inside-out cog with feel, strength, and athleticism. He rebounds well, defends with effort, and is comfortable in various roles. Expect him to have a big year.
6’5 ’27 Thomas Thompson (Bishop McGuinness)
In a similar vein to the entry above, Thompson is really starting to show refinement in his overall skillset. He’s always been a long, athletic prospect with great physical tools, but it’s easy to see how he’s developed over the recent months. Thompson still wreaks havoc as a high-motor cog, especially on defense, but also appears more comfortable making plays with the ball in his hands. He regularly forced turnovers, secured rebounds, and made plays in transition. Thompson has made clear strides as a creator and scorer.
6’3 ’27 QJ Young (Chambers)
After showing a lot of intriguing flashes last season, Young will have the opportunity to be a feature piece for this group. He’s a long, wiry guard with size, creation skills, and obvious upside on both ends of the floor. Although his body is still physically underdeveloped, Young already knows how to impact the game in various ways. He handles the ball with poise, creates for himself and others, and scores within the flow of the action. Young is a quality creator but can also find success without the ball.
6’3 ’27 Zyon White (Chambers)
Similar to his cohort above, White is set to take a massive step forward for the Cougars this season. He’s a long, wiry guard with size and lethal shooting ability. White is capable of creating or making plays with the ball in his hands, but is arguably at his best in spot-up situations. He moves well without the ball to find open space and capitalize off the catch. However, White knows how to attack closeouts and finish or make the extra pass. He provides a nice motor and scrappy defensive nature.
6’0 ’27 Bryaden Gatling (Southwest Guilford)
Rounding out this group, Gatling continues to visibly propel this group forward as the clear leader and focal point. He’s a quick, heady lead guard who gets downhill basically whenever he desires. Gatling handles the ball well to break down opponents, touch the paint, and make the right read. He’s a reliable midrange shooter and respectable threat from beyond the arc, but is at his best when attacking the basket and finishing or getting to the line. Gatling is a pesky on-ball defender with the ability to force turnovers and lead the break in transition. Returning as the guy, expect him to have a highly productive year.