As the recruiting landscape continues to evolve, the Class of 2027 in North Carolina is already showing signs of becoming a deep and talent-rich group. While several prospects have generated early buzz, there are plenty of players whose production, upside, and overall impact deserve increased attention from college programs. Phenom Hoops takes a closer look at a group of rising talents who continue to elevate their games, prove their value on the court, and position themselves as recruits coaches should prioritize moving forward.
2027 MJ Gladden (Statesville)
Gladden, a 6’4 prospect, has taken a huge leap in production this season. Nearly averaging 28ppg, Gladden shines with his athleticism and ability to score, getting to the rim, finishing in transition, and playing all over the court. And he has improved his perimeter shot-making, making him a valuable leader for Statesville this season—a sneaky prospect to watch out for in North Carolina for college coaches.
2027 Sean Nix (Cannon)
Nix continues to produce and lead his team as a scorer. Bigger and stronger than last season, Nix thrives in getting to his spots and looking for his shot, displaying comfort with range. He does a great job in catch-and-shoot situations, but also uses his body to attack defenders and finish strong inside the arc. Nix continues to have big performances offensively for his team this season.
2027 Brayden Gatling (SW Guilford)
A point guard to really watch more of, Gatling has been consistent throughout his time with Phenom Hoops. He is strong as a playmaker and attacking off the dribble, looking to attack the paint, finishing well around defenders, but also doing an excellent job in picking his spots with his pull-up game. He is a smart playmaking guard that display speed, scoring, and vision on the floor for his team.
2027 Caleb Nixon (Kings Mountain)
Nixon should be on more radars, and I believe after this season, his stock will continue to elevate. As a 6’5 prospect, he makes his mark as a shot-maker, showing the ability to get to his spots, be a threat from the perimeter, and a fluid overall release from multiple levels. And after battling an injury, he continues to add more to his game offensively. With his size, Nixon is a player of potential with his ability to knock down shots with ease.
2027 Jaxon Dollar (East Lincoln)
Known to be one of the top football prospects in the country, I’m telling you now… Dollar can play as a D1 prospect as well. He has the size, physicality, athleticism, and overall skillset that would allow him to flourish and develop as a prospect. Dollar is big time as a 6’5 strong-framed prospect that has big-time athleticism at the rim and simply outworks most opponents. A true scorer from all levels, active on the glass, and an underrated playmaker for others.
2027 Jayon Connor (FCDS)
Connor has exploded onto the scene this season, but one can see that he has really developed his overall game. He has the size, fluidity, and athleticism that you like to go along with the potential. Connor operates well from multiple levels and runs the floor well out in transition. It allows him to beat many defenders down the floor, finish at the rim, and he does a great job in being an active presence on the glass.
2027 Avery Hicks (Wakefield)
Hicks is one that we talked about this summer to watch, and he has been really good, averaging 20ppg this season for Wakefield. He has an intriguing size at 6’4, but just like we saw over the summer, Hicks just finds ways to produce, whether it is scoring, rebounding, or being a presence all over the court. Versatile piece that can bring that same presence to a future program down the road.
2027 Parker Watkins (Central Cabarrus)
Watkins has been a player we have talked about on several occasions. He is an aggressive scoring factor from all levels for his team, attacking off the bounce, finding ways to get to the line, and hitting jumpers from multiple levels. Watkins is a confident shooter who utilizes his size well, plays on and off the ball, and makes a strong overall impact.
2027 Zeke Battier (Providence Day)
Battier is another player that I would keep an eye on, as he has been excelling this season and taking his game to another level. As a 6’7 prospect with fluidity and a good overall skill set, Battier is one who is comfortable in stretching the floor, running the floor, creating off the bounce, and operating inside as well. He continues to get stronger, and his confidence is growing, as he should be a player to watch more this summer.
2027 Brennen Jefferson (Knightdale)
Jefferson brings a strong, well-rounded presence to the guard position, showcasing an impressive blend of size, skill, and athleticism. He operates comfortably as a primary creator, demonstrating the ability to generate offense for himself while also setting up teammates. Jefferson scores efficiently from all three levels, thriving in transition, and consistently keeps pressure on opposing defenses. Beyond his scoring, he contributes as a solid rebounder and dependable defender, making him a complete backcourt option with clear impact on both ends of the floor.