The South Carolina Sophomore 40 highlighted a deep, talented 2028 group that combined skill, toughness, and high-level feel for the game. From dynamic guards to versatile forwards, this class displayed a range of tools that make them prospects to track moving forward. Here are some of the standouts from the event.
6’3 Jesiah Melendez (Irmo)
Melendez displayed great poise as a combo guard with a natural feel for the game. He got into the paint at will, used his change of pace to create clean looks, and finished through contact. His balance between scoring and facilitating made him one of the more polished playmakers in attendance.
6’1 Max Leroux (Hilton Head Christian)
Leroux’s energy and competitiveness made a major difference. He attacked downhill with purpose, displayed quick burst off the bounce, and finished well at the rim. His constant motor and willingness to defend help him impact the game beyond scoring.
5’10 Joshua Pendergrass (Sumter)
Pendergrass proved to be a reliable perimeter threat. He moved well off the ball, stayed shot-ready, and showed confidence with his quick release. His off-ball activity and shooting touch make him a valuable floor-spacer in any lineup.
5’10 Hudson Deese (Lancaster)
Deese played a smart, composed game—working off the ball, reading defenses, and attacking openings with purpose. He made the right reads, showed a smooth shooting touch, and played a team-first style that elevated those around him.
6’2 Carmello Whitaker (Wilson)
Whitaker showed off his physical tools and upside. His defensive instincts and rebounding ability were clear strengths, and he brought confidence to both ends of the floor. With his length, motor, and versatility, Whitaker projects as a prospect who will keep ascending.
5’8 Vaughn Michael Taylor (Lancaster)
Taylor might have been the smallest player on the court, but his heart and effort were unmatched. He competed every possession, boxed out bigger opponents, dove for loose balls, and defended with relentless intensity. A tough, high-motor guard who simply plays to win.
6’4 Hank Davidson (Gaffney)
Davidson stood out with his strong frame and polished post play. He knows how to use his body to secure deep position, plays off two feet, and finishes through contact with balance and control. Davidson operates efficiently on the block, using minimal dribbles to create quality looks and make smart playmaking reads.
6’4 Hunter Collins (Heathwood Hall)
Collins stood out for his movement and awareness. He constantly found open space with sharp cuts, relocated to create passing angles, and finished with touch around the rim. His positional size and skill make him a player with intriguing long-term potential.
6’1 Noah Dudd (Landrum)
Dudd brought grit and consistency to the backcourt. A tough, hard-nosed guard who competes every possession, he knocked down shots at a steady clip and created looks off the bounce. His ability to control pace and make plays under pressure gives him real long-term upside.
6’7 Ebon Miller (St. James)
Miller’s size and skill combination make him one of the most intriguing prospects in the class. The 6’7 forward showcased touch from the perimeter, finished well inside, and was active on the glass. With his motor, energy, and growing confidence, Miller is trending upward quickly.