6’6 James Minlend (Concord Academy/1 of 1 Elite)
This article comes just after Minlend received his first Division I offer, Washington State, but folks should anticipate him blowing up as one of the most coveted prospects in the state. It’s actually quite perplexing that it’s taken this long for schools to get involved, as Minlend has been one of the most consistently productive players in his class for several years now. Add in the fact that he possesses a smooth, all-around game with the intangibles and physical tools to legitimately be one of the top long-term bets in 2027. Don’t be surprised when Minlend ultimately gains steam as a nationally recognized prospect.
6’6 Jayon Connor (Forsyth Country Day/Team CP3)
Although Connor has basically been “blowing up” for the better portion of the last year, it feels like he’s due to take another step over the coming months. On one hand, you can’t really teach the gifts that he naturally possesses: size, explosiveness, toughness, overwhelming strength, and the mentality to physically dominate opponents. Connor is able to consistently impact the game with his high motor and powerful athleticism. However, his desire to tighten up the “skill” parts of his game (shooting, ball-handling, etc.) and wanting to maximize his ceiling is yet another separator between him and his peers. Expect his recruitment to take off sooner than later.
6’7 Zeke Battier (Providence Day/AWigg Elite)
We’ve written extensively about what should make Battier one of the most enticing prospects across North Carolina, but it won’t hurt to reiterate the point. It seems that he’s beginning to truly tap into his upside as an incredibly skilled forward with high IQ, elite shooting ability, and a blossoming identity on both ends of the floor. Battier is a very low-maintenance player who can find success as a spot-up threat or expand his production and exploit mismatches with his inside-out polish. He defends, rebounds, and is adaptable to team needs. Additionally, Battier’s increased athleticism and physicality make him even more appealing. Division I programs should be prioritizing.
6’0 Brayden Gatling (Southwest Guilford/SW15H Elite)
There are a lot of quality guards throughout the state, but it feels like Gatling is worthy of more attention from the masses. Between his team success, individual production, and incredible consistency throughout the year (both high school and travel ball), it’s actually shocking he hasn’t already collected a variety of offers. Gatling is a very smart, dynamic floor general with the quickness, craftiness, and polished creation instincts to reliably run a team as the main creator. He touches the paint at will, shoots the ball at a quality percentage along the perimeter, and sets up others at a high volume. It’s unclear what more schools need to see, but folks should anticipate his recruitment taking off this summer.