Ambassador Christian looking strong and making its mark early on
Led by 2025 JD Bowden and 2026 Logan Johnson, Ambassador Christian is quickly making a name for themselves here in North Carolina with its play. This is a team that looks strong early on and is ready to continue the team’s success throughout the season. Ambassador has big-time talent at the guard position, scoring and playmaking, but also is showing that they have an overall balanced attack with players like 2026 Judah King, 2025 Dylan Deluca, 2026 Tyler Brown, and several others. Start paying attention to this team NOW and not later.
New names leading the charge once again at Combine Academy
Combine Academy was again back in action with Phenom Hoops, as they went up against a tough TBS team that gave them an absolute battle throughout. This Combine team though understands early what they are and how they produce, as the guard play leads the way. We already knew about 2026 Yohance Connor, but the trio of 2025 Kaden Magwood, 2025 Josiah Parker, and 2025 Caleb (all from outside NC) have come in and made a statement, giving this team a lot of offensive options. On Day 1, those three combine for 52 of the team’s 76 points, bringing a strong offensive balance throughout. This is the second event these three have done just that.
2027 King Gibson playing at another level
We wrote about Gibson last week after his incredible weekend, showing why he is one of the elite talents in the state and the country. Well, he backed it up once again on Day 1, leading the charge with 26 points, five rebounds, and seven assists in a tight battle against Combine Academy. The way he has elevated his game to another level has been impressive, showing his full game and skillset, displaying excellent vision and court awareness, being a true impact player, and being excellent from all three levels.
2026 William Stevens makes his mark down low for Davidson Day
After a rough at the Carmel Tip-Off, 2026 6’11 William Stevens bounced back in a big way with a strong double-double, showing just how impactful he can be on both sides of the court. He was able to seal down low and go to work in the paint, finishing with touch or getting to the line consistently. But he was a force as well on the boards, racking up 10 points and doing a great job in altering shots with six blocks. A game like that truly shows why so many schools are looking to recruit him.
2025 Michael Phillips showcases his shot-making ability
Grace Christian and Michael Phillips did all they could do against Davidson Day, and the 6’7 Marquette commit showed why the future could be looking bright for him. Phillips was able to flourish in so many areas of the court with his shot-making ability, hitting several tough shots over defenders and with a hand in his face. But he could also open up the offense with his three-point shooting, his ability to create off the bounce, and his athleticism in an array of ways. He finished the game with 23 points to lead the way.