As the upcoming high school basketball season approaches, anticipation builds around several rising seniors poised to leave a lasting impact on the court. These athletes have already demonstrated their skills and potential, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting senior year.
6’8 Kendre Harrison – Reidsville
Kendre Harrison continues to prove why he’s one of the most dominant two-sport athletes in the state. At 6’8, his physical presence in the paint is undeniable, consistently punishing defenders as a rebounder, lob threat, and transition finisher. Harrison’s natural timing on the glass and ability to run the floor make him nearly unstoppable around the rim. This season, expect him to show more consistency from three while also making plays for others, drawing constant attention from defenses and creating opportunities for his teammates.
6’2 Chaise Smith – Washington High School
Chaise Smith is a guard born to score, with a natural ability to create offense. He uses a quick first step to blow by defenders and the athleticism to finish through or around them. Smith consistently gets wherever he wants off the bounce, balancing aggressive scoring with smart setup passes. A three-level threat, he combines creativity, burst, and efficiency to keep defenses on their heels. One of the top players on the Eastside of North Carolina should have marvelous senior campaign.
6’1 Trent Clark – North Buncombe
Trent Clark is a crafty, high-IQ guard who consistently creates for himself and others. He shoots it well from three, gets to his spots with confidence, and serves as a reliable playmaker. Clark competes on every possession with a relentless motor on both ends of the floor. He penetrates and creates effectively, but his versatility as a scorer allows him to hurt defenses in multiple ways.
6’7 Aidan Rousseau – Cary Academy
Aidan Rousseau is a reliable outside shooter who plays with poise and confidence on the perimeter. He can handle the ball, make quick decisions, and consistently provides the extra-effort plays that elevate his team. Rousseau is versatile inside, finishing in multiple ways around the basket, gets you second chance opportunities, and finishes well. . His blend of shooting, toughness, and energy makes him a steady two-way contributor. High Academic D1’s have taken notice.
6’2 Braylon Taylor – Salisbury
Braylon Taylor is a proven offensive weapon who excels with his shot-making from multiple levels. He stretches defenses with his deep range while also showing the ability to score consistently off the bounce. Taylor’s impact wasn’t just limited to scoring—his defensive presence stood out as he created multiple steals and applied pressure on the perimeter. Playing at his own pace, Taylor combines confidence and composure to make a steady impact on both ends of the floor.
6′ 1 Maverick Ball – North Hills Christian
Maverick Ball is a versatile scorer who can create off the dribble, run the floor in transition, or knock down shots from deep. With good size and strength, he uses his frame effectively when attacking the rim. Ball shows confidence handling in rhythm, and when set, he’s a reliable shooter from three, giving him multiple ways to apply pressure offensively.
6’2 Tristan Peterson – Currituck County
Tristan Peterson is a tough, physical guard who thrives attacking the basket with purpose. He uses change of pace effectively, with a quick burst that complements his downhill play. A good athlete, Peterson takes contact well, gets to the free-throw line, and consistently applies pressure on defenses. He also provides value as a capable floor spacer, attacking closeouts confidently and playing bigger than his size. In transition, Peterson truly shines, using his athleticism and motor to make an impact in the open floor.