
Lab U Faces Off Against Elevation Prep
Leading things off, two tough non-association teams in Lab U and Elevation Prep will battle it out. Despite enduring some struggles, Elevation Prep (4-9) still has a scrappy group headlined by guys like Harvey Bedell, Demarcus Richardson, and Caleb Napier. Meanwhile, Lab U (16-4) has quietly been one of the better independent teams this season. Jaylen Claggett has set the tone as an offensive focal point with his efficiency as an all-around scorer. Sophomore Jordan Hunter joined the team in December and has been a seamless addition, becoming their second-leading scorer while highlighting instincts as a rebounder and playmaker. Esmond Thomas does a little bit of everything. Kevin Crockett is a highly intriguing forward with a very enticing blend of skill, athleticism, and long-term upside. Mike Strickland offers a quick, heady presence from the point guard position and can create for others or apply pressure as a scorer. Jalen Dancy is another appealing forward with size, athleticism, and flashes of skill. Guys like Demarco Reynolds and John Koudakpo also provide valuable minutes for this squad. There are definitely prospects for college coaches in this contest.
Can Carolina International Maintain Momentum?
It’s been a very interesting season for Coach Ewell and Carolina International. They started 9-0 before losing their next four games. However, the Comets quickly got back on track by winning four of the next five (and suffering their lone loss by two points) heading into the weekend. In looking at their roster construction, they are a fairly balanced group with strong guard play and a tight rotation. KJ Shouse clearly stands out as their main leader, both in terms of production and general impact on both ends of the floor. Landon Griffin also carries a heavy scoring load and is capable of being a difference-maker on any given night. Brent Banks has been a meaningful addition to the roster and provides another useful creator. Rounding out their core, guys like Josiah Bridges, Kendall Salter, and Rylan Leak know how to produce within their respective roles. On the other side, Rock Hill (6-11) looks to bounce back after losing four of the last five games. Seniors Kyriq Dickens and Deionne Robertson offer a useful scoring punch while juniors Collin McKellar and Zaire Williams understand how to fill in the gaps. Lastly, Nigel Lightner has intrigue as a sophomore. It’ll be exciting to see how this contest unfolds.