6’7 Isaac Smith (Hargrave Academy/Team United)
While it might be somewhat cheating since he doesn’t belong in the North Carolina pipeline (and the fact that he’s already a nationally regarded player), but it feels like this is the right time for folks across the country to start accepting and appreciating Smith’s potential greatness. We detailed his anticipated blow-up earlier in January, but he’s only continued to further solidify himself as a special talent. Smith has it all. The size, the skill, the athleticism, the mentality, and everything in between. Should he remain on his current trajectory, it’s difficult to envision his path ending at the collegiate level.
6’6 Thomas Bowes (Greensboro Day/SW15H Elite)
After our most recent viewing of Bowes with SW15H Elite, it became increasingly clear that he’s ready to take the next step in his progression. Showcasing an all-around game with the size, skill, and athleticism to be a versatile matchup problem on both ends of the floor, it doesn’t take a lot of convincing to be excited. Bowes is able to reliably pass, handle, and score from all levels. He has a smooth perimeter jumper and strong penetration sense with the ability to finish through contact or above the rim. Bowes is a quality rebounder and defender across multiple positions. Expect him to see a sizable uptick in his recruitment over the coming months.
6’4 Chacho Womack (West Charlotte/Team Loaded)
No matter how much the game evolves, elite scorers will always have a place in basketball, and Womack is a supremely gifted scorer. It’s simply rare for a guy to have his combination of twitch, creation skills, shot variety, and aggressive mentality. Womack can basically apply pressure from anywhere on the floor, which yields positive results more often than not. He’s wired to fill it up in a hurry and absolutely does so—regardless of setting or opponent. That being said, Womack has also shown improved playmaking instincts and defensive involvement while adding strength to his wiry frame. All signs point to him having a massive summer.
6’2 Ja’Von Motta (Trinity Christian/1 of 1 Elite)
After deciding to reclassify, Motta immediately vaults himself into being one of the top players in North Carolina’s Class of 2028. He’s a long, wiry guard with excellent creation instincts and shot-making ability. Motta is a polished scorer from all levels with the ability to operate as a primary ball-handler and playmaker. He sees the floor well to generate clean looks for others, but can also assert himself and fill it up in various ways. Motta’s craftiness and change of pace allow him to consistently get whatever shot he wants. He’s a nice rebounder who anticipates well to force turnovers defensively.