6’0 ’26 Kendall Lanier (Hargrave)
Some guys simply know how to run a team, and that certainly applies to Lanier. He understands how to lead by example while providing a strong blend of penetration, playmaking, and perimeter shooting. Lanier dictates the action with IQ, poise, and pace as the main creator. He offers terrific balance between scoring and playmaking, showing the ability to consistently alter his approach based on team needs. Lanier is a tough, pesky defender at the point of attack and anticipates well to force turnovers.
6’6 ’28 Kade Flowers (Alexander Central)
Despite being a young, physically developing prospect, Flowers already stands out as a valuable contributor on both ends of the floor. He’s a strong, skilled post player with a sturdy frame and nice mobility. Flowers possesses nice instincts around the basket, displaying touch, rebounding ability, and defensive prowess. He does a great job of finding opportunities within the flow of the team structure, both in transition and the half court, but will only become more difficult for opponents to contain over the coming years.
6’6 ’26 Bryan Little (Piedmont)
Few guys in high school basketball can match the strength and overall physique of someone like Little. Built like an absolute tank, he’s a nightmare matchup for the vast majority of opponents. Little is able to simply overwhelm opponents inside the paint on both ends of the floor. He finishes very well around the basket, including above the rim and through contact, and draws fouls at a consistent rate. Little battles hard to establish his presence on the glass and alters shots well as an interior defender.
6’7 ’26 Jace Blocker (Hickory)
Each of the core pieces for Hickory seems to embrace their own respective roles, and that definitely includes Blocker. He’s a strong, skilled low-post player with a sturdy frame and the ability to reliably produce from the block. Blocker does a great job of securing deep position and making decisive moves to score. He’s also a capable passer out of the post. Block finds a lot of success through his rebounding presence and solid interior defense. He maximizes his role for this group.
6’3 ’26 Xavier Hutchens (Kings Mountain)
In a contest against a notable opponent, Hutchens arguably stood out as the main x-factor for Kings Mountain. He’s an excellent athlete with great length, motor, and toughness on both ends of the floor. Hutchens possesses a strong nose for the ball, as evidenced by his rebounding presence and ability to force turnovers, and doesn’t shy away from physical play. He did a terrific job of filling in the gaps and expanding his production as needed. Hutchens rebounded well and embraced his assignments defenisvely.