6’3 2021 Kenny Noland (Apex Friendship)
Last season, Apex Friendship went an impressive 23-5 and 6’3 2021 Kenny Noland was the lone underclassman to start. Not only did he start, but was one of the team’s leading scorers. Noland averaged 12.1 PPG and shot an even more impressive 56% from the floor and 42% from the 3-point line. For the season, Noland also dished out 93 assists to only 38 turnovers. While Noland had an impressive offensive stat line, he was also stellar on the defensive side of the ball where he had 54 steals for the season.
While Noland is excelling on the basketball court, he is also knocking it out in the classroom. He sports a terrific 3.95 GPA and is getting interest from Air Force, Army West Point, Colorado State, Davidson, Eastern Washington, High Point, Lafayette, Northern Colorado and Winthrop. Back in 2018 at our NC Phenom 150 camp, we stated the following. “He’s a long, wiry guard prospect that can consistently generate offense for himself and others while never having to force the issue. Noland displays a great feel for the game and unselfishly works to allow his teammates to flourish. He’s a capable three-point shooter, but truly dominated at scoring inside the arc and finishing aggressively with either hand at the basket. He utilizes his length and IQ exceptionally well on defense to alter shots and force off-ball steals. Next in his development process is working to become a knockdown shooter from distance, as it would make him basically unstoppable for most opponents. Coach Whitley on Noland: “Oh my, Kenny! Wow! This kid can flat-out play! He’s a straight baller with an excellent IQ. He understands his role and excels at it.”
Coach Rick’s Scouting Report: Noland is an exceptional shooter. He has terrific footwork and squares his feet and shoulders to the basket when receiving the pass. As the old saying goes, Noland does his work early in shot preparation. While he’s best in the “catch and shoot” situation, Noland has the ability to dribble drive and hit the midrange or drop off the pass to open teammates. While he has a solid junior season, we expect big things from Noland this upcoming season. He will provide valuable senior leadership and will be expected to carry the scoring load for Apex Friendship
Video: (Hudl) https://youtu.be/nMFqAhoEBE0