The POB’s Best of the Best Series continues by highlighting the Top Guards from the 2027 class that stood out at the NC Top 80. This group of talented prospects showed they can flat-out put the ball in the basket in a variety of ways. From creative shot-makers who can score off the bounce, to confident shooters who space the floor and finish through contact, these guards consistently proved their ability to take over games and impacted the game in a variety of ways. Each brought a unique blend of skill, competitiveness, and offensive firepower, making this group one of the most exciting to watch in North Carolina. Here’s a closer look at the top guards who made their mark.
2027 Geren Holmes (TBS)
Holmes is a confident, well-rounded guard who plays with pace and poise. At 6’4, he utilizes his size and athleticism to push the tempo, finish in transition, and create space off the dribble. Holmes moves fluidly across the floor, consistently impacting the game with his energy and competitive mindset. His blend of control, versatility, and aggression makes him a reliable producer and a prospect to keep tabs on moving forward.
2027 Travien Williams (Hickory Ridge)
Williams is a strong and fearless guard who consistently finds ways to make plays. He excels at creating off the bounce, attacking downhill with confidence, and getting to his preferred spots on the floor. Despite his size, Williams displays impressive strength and body control, finishing through contact and against length. His toughness, craftiness, and ability to produce against pressure make him a prospect college coaches will want to keep a close eye on.
2027 Julian Lowe (TBS)
Lowe is an intriguing prospect with clear offensive upside. He’s already shown flashes of being a reliable scoring option, displaying good instincts and confidence on the floor. As he continues to develop and expand his overall game, Lowe’s blend of skill, feel, and scoring potential makes him a player to monitor closely in North Carolina’s 2027 class.
2027 Brennen Jefferson (Knightdale)
Jefferson is a steady and efficient performer who impacts the game in multiple ways. He plays with great control, never forces the action, and consistently makes the right reads. Jefferson can score both on and off the ball, showing a smooth shooting touch from the perimeter and the ability to finish strong around the rim. His poise, versatility, and feel as a secondary playmaker make him a reliable and productive piece every time he steps on the floor.
2027 Caleb Nixon (Kings Mountain)
Nixon is a strong, skilled prospect who brings clear value on both ends of the floor. With his combination of size, shooting ability, and physicality, he’s capable of scoring from multiple levels and battling through contact. Nixon’s blend of strength and shot-making makes him a tough matchup and a player poised to turn heads throughout the upcoming season.
2027 Josiah Johnson-Freeman (WS Christian)
Johnson-Freeman continues to stand out with his smooth, composed style of play. He handles the ball with confidence, creating separation to get to his pull-up and consistently knocking down shots from the perimeter. Johnson-Freeman also displays strong explosiveness when attacking the basket, finishing with athleticism and control. His combination of skill, poise, and scoring versatility makes him a high-upside prospect to keep an eye on.
2027 Dylan Bradley (Providence Day)
Bradley continues to shine with his high motor and physical approach to the game. He plays with purpose, using his strength and speed to attack downhill and finish through contact. Bradley sets the tone with his toughness, consistently making smart, simple plays that lead to efficient production. His blend of energy, power, and consistency makes him a valuable contributor who impacts winning in multiple ways.