After nearly six months of summer basketball, the travel season has ended and the yearly shift towards high school hoops has finally begun. Although there is still a lot of basketball going on between camps, fall leagues, and other preseason jamborees, this is typically the quietest time of the year for the grassroots community. Which, in turn, means there’s no better time to start highlighting individuals who have the tools and ability to be breakout players over the next eight months. While this notion could certainly apply to a variety of prospects, the emphasis is primarily on younger guys with an increased role, new school situation, or those who simply take the next step in their progression. Since entering high school, Gradyn West (Grace Christian/Harvest Development) has made steady strides in establishing himself as one of the top prospects in North Carolina’s Class of 2029. Let’s take a closer look…
It’s no secret that North Carolina has a ton of intriguing prospects, but it feels like West is someone that should be garnering more buzz from the masses. As a freshman, he posted nightly averages of 10.9 PPG, 3.6 RPG, and 1.0 SPG with highly efficient 50/43/95 splits. West played a vital role for a very balanced Eagles squad while regularly standing out as their most reliable piece and top long-term prospect. At 6-foot-5 with length, fluidity, and athleticism, he checks a ton of boxes from a physical standpoint. West is still just growing into his body, yet has no issue making his presence felt on both ends of the floor.
Offensively, West possesses a smooth, well-rounded skillset with an intriguing blend of creation instincts, scoring polish, and ability with or without the ball in his hands. He’s a quality scorer from all levels, and understands how to mix it up to keep defenses guessing. West shoots the ball very well along the perimeter, elevates extremely well on pull-up jumpers, and finishes effectively above the rim or with either hand. He’s a capable passer whose playmaking ability continues to improve. That being said, West also frequently finds opportunities through his sheer effort and nose for the ball. He plays hard and positions himself well to secure putbacks and loose balls. West competes to make an impact defensively and positions himself to force turnovers at a solid rate. He’s also a useful threat in transition. Between his intangibles, physical tools, and current ability, the appeal with West is clear.