5’10 ’26 Mike Strickland (Dub Salem)
Despite being the smallest player listed, it’s easy to see all the ways Strickland makes his presence felt for this group. He plays with nonstop energy and effort on both ends of the floor. Strickland understands how to set up the offense, make smart passes, and apply pressure as a downhill threat. He’s also a capable shooter who looks to take advantage of what the defense is giving him. Strickland defends with a high motor and isn’t afraid to sacrifice his body to make hustle plays.
6’4 ’26 Ahmir Wiggins (Dub Salem)
Given everything he brings to the table as an athletic, low-maintenance piece, it feels like Wiggins should be coveted by more programs. He’s a fairly well-rounded wing prospect who naturally finds ways to produce within the flow of the action. Wiggins is a strong finisher, both through contact and above the rim, with the ability to attack off the bounce and hit jumpers at a respectable rate. He’s a quality rebounder and is capable of guarding multiple positions defensively. Wiggins understands how to make an impact in various different roles.
6’0 ’26 Lincoln Raper (Carolina Riptide)
Although he was ultimately sidelined with an injury, Raper continues to shine as a leader for this group. His value as a smart, balanced floor general cannot be overstated. Raper completely sets the tone as the main creator with a seemingly perfect blend of playmaking and perimeter shooting. He’s a crafty ball-handler with phenomenal pace, vision, and poise. Raper is capable of getting whatever he wants offensively, but is typically willing to take what the defense gives him. His efficiency, all-around impact, and incredibly calm demeanor allow him to consistently set the tone.
6’4 ’26 Noah VanBeurden (Carolina Riptide)
This Riptide time has a nice variety of pieces, and VanBeurden seems to be one of the more popular names among college coaches. He’s a smart, skilled, well-rounded wing with great size and an adaptable game. VanBeurden is capable of doing everything on the court. He scores from all levels, sees the floor well as a passer, defends multiple positions, and rebounds at a quality rate for his size. VanBeurden knows how to produce within a role or expand his production as a focal point. Expect his recruitment to rise over the next few months.
6’10 ’26 Talla Mbaye (NC Heels Elite)
The appeal of a 6-foot-10 big man with incredible length, athleticism, and a nonstop motor should be fairly obvious, and that’s exactly what has folks buzzing about Mbaye. He plays with constant energy and looks to wreak havoc on both ends of the floor. Mbaye runs hard in transition and finishes well around the basket, but doesn’t necessarily need a ton of touches to make an impact. He’s able to consistently secure rebounds and block shots while anchoring the paint defensively. Mbaye still has plenty of upside but already impacts the game well within his role.