I will say, even though Northside Christian had a tremendous season and will be losing some key pieces, the Knights still look to have a bright future. They finished 19-8 overall and 9-3 in a loaded conference, racking up some impressive wins along the way. They also were a regular in several Phnom Hoops events throughout the year, always impressing the scouts.
Looking through their schedule this season, Northside Christian was able to rack up wins against some strong opponents including state champion Cannon, York Prep, Westminster Catawba, state champion Asheville Christian Academy, Moravian Prep, and several others.
The Knights will be losing some tough talent, including one of their leaders in Glynn Hubbard, who is a terrific and underrated talent as a point guard with his speed and scoring impact on the floor. They will also lose key role players in Jan Homanen, who was new to the team but really carved out a strong role by the end of the season, along with Noel Tesfa, who showcased his outside shooting this season.
But, as mentioned above, the future remains bright with the younger talent. It can start with 2023 Wesley Tubbs and 2024 Jahseem Felton, as Tubbs will continue to develop his game and play a significant part with his 6’7 size and versatility, and Felton (who joined the team later in the season), will be considered one of the top prospects in the state for his class.
Then you look at players like junior Daniel Lubamba, a defensive presence, and strong guard, junior Jalen Mattocks who brings a strong presence in the paint and as a rebounder. Down low, watch out for 2023 Aaron Hall, an athletic forward that plays at the rim, a developing young big in 6’9, 2024 Isaiah Sutherland, and a strong, quick, defensive-minded sophomore in Mychael Mitchell.
Head coach Erasto Hatchett came up just short this season in the playoffs but this is a program that should continue to have a lot of excitement behind it about the future.