6’8 ’29 Sylva Okauru (St. Christopher’s)
In a gym full of intriguing young players, Sylva Okauru was arguably the most enticing long-term prospect on display. He’s a strong, sturdy big man with a blossoming skillset and the ability to consistently impact the game on both ends of the floor. Okauru does a phenomenal job of fighting for post position, making decisive moves towards the basket, and finishing through contact or above the rim. He possesses soft touch and quality footwork on the block. Okauru fights well for rebounds, alters shots at a solid rate, and runs the floor effectively in transition. He definitely has an appealing foundation and array of tools, but his work ethic and progression over the coming years will ultimately determine his ceiling.
6’0 ’30 Brody Johnson (Durham Hurricanes)
Quickly becoming one of my favorite players to watch, Brody Johnson plays harder than everyone else in the gym. In addition to his rugged, high-motor approach and ability to wreak havoc at all times, he asserts himself as a well-rounded leader for this group. For his size, Johnson is truly one of the best rebounders and most destructive players you’ll ever see. He’s an extremely strong, physical, athletic guard with nice creation skills, penetration instincts, and the ability to knock down shots along the perimeter. Johnson puts nonstop pressure on the rim and excels at getting downhill in transition. He’s the type of player every coach desires.
6’3 ’30 CJ Dial (Team CP3)
Although other guys on this roster will probably receive a lot of the headlines, CJ Dial already stands out through his incredibly malleable game and reliable two-way identity. Given his picturesque mechanics and consistent ability from beyond the arc, he was arguably the best shooter in attendance. Dial moves extremely well without the ball to find open space and put pressure on opposing defenses. He seems to convert any spot-up jumper he attempts, but also knows how to attack closeouts, finish, pull up, or make the extra pass. Dial is comfortable off the bounce, but looks to play off the catch whenever possible. He’s a smart, smooth, low-maintenance piece who can carve out a role with legitimately any team.
5’10 ’32 Xaviar James (1 of 1 Elite)
There’s no need to beat around the bush, Xavier James was clearly the best player and most enticing prospect across his age division. After watching him absolutely dominate camp last weekend, he was somehow even more impressive at our Winter Nationals. James showcased a complete game with the ability to do legitimately everything on the court. He ran the offense as the main creator and source of points while exploiting mismatches, making intelligent decisions, and setting the tone as a leader. James excels at getting downhill and finishing, but can score the ball effectively from all levels. Add in his consistent rebounding and versatile defensive presence, and it’s easy to see his overall value. James should only continue to trend upward.
5’8 ’30 Tavion Lawrence (Reidsville Tigers)
Although the Reidsville Tigers are an incredibly balanced team with a slew of valuable contributors, Tavion Lawrence stood out as much as anyone. In addition to hitting the buzzer-beating shot in the championship contest, he operates as a leader and focal point for this group. Lawrence is an extremely quick, heady floor general with a quality blend of IQ, polish, and creation skills. He utilizes his tight handle and sharp first step to break down opponents, touch the paint, and make plays for himself and others. Lawrence sets up others and scores the ball well from all levels. He’s a scrappy defender at the point of attack and displays excellent toughness on both ends of the floor.