Each year, prospects across North Carolina take steps forward in their development, emerging as hidden gems who deserve more attention from college coaches and evaluators. The 2026 and 2027 classes are loaded with talent, and several players are beginning to separate themselves with their production, growth, and long-term upside. These prospects might not always grab the headlines, but their skill sets, versatility, and consistency make them names to remember moving forward.
Mandrake Lewis Jr. (2027 | 6’6 | Combine Academy) — A high-energy forward who impacts the game with his motor and consistent scoring inside. Lewis Jr. applies pressure when attacking the basket, finishes through contact, and has begun showing reliable consistency that makes him a key contributor for his team.
Nicholas McLean (2026 | 6’9 | Winston-Salem Christian) — A long, versatile front court player who moves well for his size. McLean shows a soft touch around the basket and is beginning to develop perimeter awareness, making him a matchup problem on both ends of the floor. Plays with energy and has the tools to continue rising as a senior.
Tyler Brown (2027 | 6’9 | Ambassador Christian) – A versatile forward with smooth athleticism and solid size for his position. Brown shows a natural ability to finish at the rim through contact, rebounds aggressively, and protects the interior with his length and timing. Offensively, he can score in multiple ways, including putbacks, short‑range jumpers, and attacking the paint off the dribble. Defensively, his mobility allows him to switch on smaller guards while still holding his own in the post, making him a matchup problem for opponents. With continued skill development, Brown has the potential to be a two-way contributor at the next level.
Blake Smith (2027 | 6’4 | Salisbury) – Smith is a long, athletic guard/wing with a fluid scoring ability inside and out. He uses his length to finish over defenders, create off the bounce, and contest shots on defense. Smith’s court vision and passing ability allow him to set up teammates effectively, making him more than just a scoring threat. On the perimeter, he’s developing a reliable jumper, which complements his attacking mindset. His combination of size, athleticism, and playmaking makes him a player to watch, with potential to see significant growth if he continues to refine his skill set.
Kady’n Turner‑Scott (2026 |6’4 | Ben L. Smith) – Turner‑Scott is a high‑energy wing with multi-positional upside. He’s capable of scoring from various spots on the floor, whether spotting up, attacking closeouts, or driving off the bounce. His versatility allows him to defend multiple positions, and his athleticism makes him a threat in transition. The biggest key for Turner‑Scott moving forward will be increasing his confidence and expanding his offensive role; doing so could elevate him to one of the top scorers in his class. Coaches value his willingness to compete and his ability to impact the game in different ways.
Onur Kurucu (2026 | 6’7 | Gaston Day)
Kurucu is a physical interior presence who brings strength, toughness, and reliability to the paint. He finishes well through defenders, establishes deep position, and embraces contact when scoring around the rim. On the glass, he consistently battles to secure rebounds and extend possessions for his team. While often overlooked, Kurucu’s blend of size, effort, and productivity makes him an effective piece who contributes on both ends of the floor.