6’6 James Minlend (Concord Academy)
Although he’s made steady strides within his progression, it feels like Minlend is poised to make the next leap as a prospect. His physical makeup, blossoming skillset, and growing confidence should be a real concern for opponents. Minlend was already a matchup problem at his size, but his increased assertiveness really allows him to take over a game if he desires. The well-rounded wing does a little bit of everything. He’s shown improvement as a creator and playmaker, and still has considerable upside defensively. Though he was already a key piece for Concord Academy, the departures of Jake Benham, Gray Madeira, Alek Kornacki, and Icare Bakadisula (accounted for 26.5 shots per game) should open up even more opportunities for Minlend. Expect him to become a priority for Division I programs.
6’2 Parker Watkins (Hickory Ridge)
After losing basically his entire sophomore season due to injury, a simple clean bill of health is enough to justify Watkins’ potential breakout campaign. Unlike the example above, Hickory Ridge loses almost no one. However, Watkins will still return as a focal point. He’s a reliable shot-maker and crafty scorer from all levels who can create or find success without the ball in his hands. Watkins gets to the basket, knocks down midrange pull-ups, and hits jumpers at a quality percentage from beyond the arc. He’s a capable rebounder who defends with energy and toughness. It’s difficult to envision a scenario where Watkins doesn’t have a highly productive season.
6’6 Koen Booker (Christ School)
It’s no secret that Christ School has been on an incredible run over the past three seasons, but things are slated to get more challenging without the likes of Zymicah Wilkins and Madden Collins leading the way. Add in some recent uncertainty surrounding another key piece for the Greenies, all signs point to Booker taking a big leap forward. This group should definitely benefit from having a skilled, well-rounded wing with polish as a scorer, creator, and adaptable defensive cog. He’s a solid rebounder for his size and utilizes his length to force turnovers. Given what he’s shown over the last few months, Booker should definitely see an uptick in production.
6’9 Reid Johannes (1 of 1 Academy)
Many people in North Carolina still might not know about Johannes, and understandably so. He basically lost the first two years of his varsity career due to injury and didn’t play travel ball until this spring. However, we did have the opportunity to see Johannes at camp prior to the high school season. In addition to his long, wiry frame and quality athleticism, he showcased touch, fluidity, and an impactful identity on either side of the ball. Johannes finishes above the rim and fills the lane properly in transition, but can also space the floor from beyond the arc. He rebounds the ball at a consistent rate and displays timing as a shot-blocker. Following his recent decision to transfer to 1 of 1 Academy and transfer to the Class of 2027, it feels like his stock will skyrocket sooner than later.