The POB’s Best of the Best Series continues by spotlighting the Top Forwards and Centers who stood out at the NC Top 80. This talented group showcased their ability to dominate the interior while also stretching the floor and impacting the game in multiple ways. From strong, physical post players who controlled the paint and finished through contact, to versatile forwards who could step out, handle the ball, and knock down shots, these prospects displayed the complete skill sets that define modern frontcourt play. Each brought a combination of size, touch, athleticism, and feel that made them stand out among North Carolina’s best. Here’s a closer look at the top forwards and centers who left their mark at the event.
2026 Prince Nwokemodo (FCDS)
Nwokemodo is a towering interior presence who consistently impacts the game on both ends of the floor. He utilizes his length, athleticism, and touch to finish strong around the rim and control the glass. Nwokemodo runs the floor with purpose, stays active within his role, and serves as a reliable rim protector who regularly alters or blocks shots. His motor, size, and efficiency make him a valuable frontcourt piece with clear long-term potential.
2026 Justin Caldwell (Fayetteville Academy)
Caldwell, a Georgetown commit, continues to impress with his physical, dominant style of play. The powerful guard/forward overwhelms opponents with his strength and aggressiveness, consistently finishing through contact and asserting himself around the basket. Caldwell thrives when attacking downhill, using his body to create separation and control the paint, while also impacting the game on the glass. His combination of toughness, athleticism, and relentless motor allows him to impose his will offensively and make his presence felt every possession.
2026 Stephano Farrington (Bull City Prep)
Farrington should absolutely be a prospect to watch. He continues to show steady improvement and growth in his overall game. Farrington displays excellent touch and awareness around the basket, using his length and bounce to finish plays and protect the rim as an effective shot-blocker. What makes him increasingly intriguing is his expanding offensive range—stepping out with confidence and showing flashes of perimeter skill. With his size, athleticism, and developing versatility, Farrington is shaping up to be a high-upside forward with plenty of long-term potential.
2027 Noah Dobyns (Wesleyan Christian)
Dobyns continues to impress with his advanced feel and all-around skill set for his size. He moves exceptionally well, positioning himself for easy finishes and displaying a soft, controlled touch around the rim. Dobyns is an active rebounder who uses his length and instincts to secure extra possessions, while also showing the ability to push the ball in transition and confidently step out to hit shots from range. His blend of mobility, touch, and versatility makes him a well-rounded forward with significant long-term upside.
2027 Charles Pur (TBS)
Pur is a fluid and skilled big man who continues to impress with his coordination and mobility. At his size, he moves exceptionally well—running the floor hard, staying active on both ends, and consistently putting himself in position to make plays. Pur shows good ball control for a frontcourt player, handling the ball with confidence and making smooth, instinctive moves in the paint. He also displays a soft touch around the rim and a developing perimeter feel, making him a versatile offensive threat as a big.
2027 Kamari Nicholson (TBS)
Nicholson is a rapidly developing big man whose recruitment is poised to rise. He’s flourishing in his role, showcasing his length, mobility, and growing versatility. Nicholson continues to be effective operating in the paint—finishing efficiently, rebounding, and altering shots defensively—while also expanding his game beyond the post. His improving face-up ability and comfort in different offensive situations highlight his evolving skill set and significant long-term upside as a modern, two-way frontcourt prospect.