2026 Tyson Thompson has the makings of a big-time big here in NC
It was fun to watch Thompson go to work and operate, as we don’t get to see too much of him out east. But even in a tough game on Day 1, the young big man really showed flashes of his potential and impact on the court. There is a lot to like about his strength and physicality, as well as being a fluid big man. He showed flashes of his ability to put on the deck and finish, as well as being a presence offensively and defensively in the paint. Thompson should only continue to blossom and his recruitment should follow.
Plenty of unsigned seniors who should be strong targets for schools
2024 Amari Latham, 2024 Caden Bell, 2024 CJ Alston, 2024 Linwood Rowe, 2024 Xavier Johnson, and others really grabbed the attention of many with their Day 1 play. And they should be targets for several programs around the region with what they provide on the court. Latham brings athleticism and versatility, scoring and operating in a variety of ways. Bell and Alston are strong, athletic guards who can fill the box score for NC GBB. Rowe has the blend of size and skillset that allows him to impact the game and impact the game in so many ways. Johnson is another scoring guard who plays within the offense and can make plays as well as knock down shots. All of which should have the attention of college programs.
Laney vs. Jordan was fun to watch
One of the best games of the day was Laney vs. Jordan, as it ended in a 2-point win for Laney. Jordan was led by 2025 Derek Ross Jr., an electric point guard that excels in leading the offense, creating and showing his speed, and making plays for others. Others like Zion Wells and Julian Lowe really stepped up as well for Jordan. Laney was led by Hezron Driver, creating and getting inside the defense and finishing nicely over defenders. However, they brought a very balanced attack and a team-first mentality to the court.
2025 Kenny Vera should have a monster year at Northwood Temple
Had a great chance to see what Northwood Temple brought to the court, and what we learned quickly was that 2025 Kenny Vera should have a big year and be the go-to guy throughout the year. Vera is a physical guard with good athleticism, creates and gets inside the defense, has good body control, and finishes well. Really plays with a good motor and looks to impact the game in so many ways, rebounding well for his position and also sharing the ball well.
Trinity Christian is a team to really watch out for this year
We wrote about this team to preview the event and they showed just how strong they were on Day 1 with an impressive showing against Terry Sanford. This is a team that has good size at positions, brings a balanced inside-and-out attack, and plays with toughness on the court. They made quick work on Day 1.
2024 Paul McNeil starting off the season in style
What a way to end the day in an intense battle between Fayetteville Academy and Richmond. Both teams were trading blows back and forth in this game, but ultimately Richmond had the best player on the court in NC State commit and he showed why, going for 37 points, 15rebs, 5blks, 4stls, and 2asts. He scored in all areas with a smooth release, using his 6’6 frame to finish over, attack the boards and create extra opportunities, and be a versatile piece defensively. He left it all out there on the court and he showed why he is a Top-100 player in the country on Day 1.
