6’5 ’27 Thomas Vickery (Thrill Skillz)
There were a lot of notable names on display for the final weekend of travel ball, but Vickery was arguably as impressive as anyone. It was my first “real” viewing outside of last year’s high school season (when touches and playing time were limited), and it’s easy to see why he’s rapidly trending upward as one of the fastest risers in North Carolina’s Class of 2027. Vickery checks off a lot of appealing boxes as a 6-foot-5 wing with quality feel, explosiveness, ball skills, and perimeter shooting. He reliably operated as a focal point, consistently creating clean looks for himself and others while mixing it up as a scorer from all levels. Vickery is also a useful defender with nice rebounding instincts for his position. Expect him to continue blowing up as an obvious target for Division I programs.
6’6 ’28 CJ Moore (Upward Stars Columbia)
The Upward Stars Columbia roster featured a ton of talent, and Moore continually managed to stand out as a leader despite being one of the youngest players on the team. He’s always possessed favorable physical tools with his incredible length, fluidity, athleticism, and positional size. However, it’s clear that Moore is making strides within his progression. The development of his creation abilities and perimeter shooting are highly encouraging. Moore will need to continue improving in these areas, but the growth is undeniable. Add in his physicality and general involvement as a defender and rebounder, and there’s a lot to like. Moore has the tools to be a highly coveted prospect.
6’5 ’26 Bradley Floyd (Most Hated)
It doesn’t take long to see all the appealing qualities Floyd possesses and how they could translate to a variety of different college programs. His blend of size, athleticism, and well-rounded skillset makes him malleable to almost any situation. Floyd has useful creation skills, especially for his size, and mixes it up well from all levels as a scorer. He already possesses a strong, defined frame with long arms and effortless pop athletically. Floyd is comfortable operating in various roles alongside all types of players. He’s a useful rebounder and capable defender across multiple positions. Floyd should collect more offers over the next few months.
6’5 ’26 Jack Siegel (NC Spartans)
Although he probably didn’t receive the appropriate amount of attention this travel ball season, Siegel remains a name for college coaches to pursue. He’s a highly skilled wing with knockdown shooting ability from midrange and beyond the arc. Siegel is a quality creator, both for himself and others, who utilizes his pace and craftiness to generate clean looks off the dribble. He’s an excellent spot-up threat with an understanding of how to attack closeouts, make reads, and score or set up others. Siegel also rebounds his position and displays nice instincts defensively. Expect him to have a highly productive senior season and attract college coaches along the way.
6’4 ’27 Aiden Horton (NC Rise)
Certain players don’t receive enough credit for their adaptability and understanding of how to operate as a glue-guy, and that applies to Horton. He’s a natural connector who looks to do anything possible to propel his team forward. Horton can score in a variety of different ways, but is mainly focused on making the right play, setting up others, and finding opportunities for himself within the flow of the action. He displays constant effort and looks to make hustle plays whenever possible. Horton is also a great rebounder and switchable defender.