6’7 Jeremiah Howard (Concord)
After a summer season playing with the most dominant program in the Carolinas, one would think Howard would have more traction with college coaches. He’s a big, strong, physically imposing post prospect with a quality motor and blue-collar approach. Howard is a capable finisher who rebounds, alters shots, and runs the floor in transition. He utilizes his body very well around the basket to absorb contact. Howard is also a useful screener. He simply has appeal as someone who will do whatever it takes to provide his team with an edge.
6’1 Andre Rudy (Concord Academy)
Though unassuming at first glance, Rudy is the type of guy coaches should want in their foxhole. He’s a pure gamer with the combination of IQ, motor, and well-rounded skillset to cause a ton of problems for opponents. Although Rudy sets up others, scores from multiple levels, and makes countless defensive plays, his physicality and sheer nose for the ball allows him to impact the game with or without the ball in his hands. He’s a willing rebounder and hustle player who leaves it all on the floor.
6’5 Jordan Durham (The Burlington School)
There will always be a need for utility pieces in college basketball, which is why it’s surprising that more schools haven’t gotten involved with Durham. He excels as a low-maintenance wing who can adapt to various roles and do a little bit of everything on the court. Durham defends multiple positions, rebounds well for his size, and fills in the gaps offensively. His ability to impact all facets of the game is quite valuable, but it’s also easy to be impressed with his mature, team-oriented approach. Durham could benefit a variety of programs.
6’3 DJ Boyce (United Faith)
The state has so many notable shooters, which certainly includes Boyce and his ability to fill it up from beyond the arc. He’s a smart, strong guard prospect who actually thrives as an off-ball threat. Boyce is a knockdown shooter off the catch, but also does a nice job of attacking closeouts and creating shots within a few dribbles. He’s a willing passer who understands spacing and shot value. Boyce also defends, rebounds, and gets to his spots in transition. He’s another low-maintenance guy who should appeal to numerous coaches.
6’9 Isaiah Sutherland (United Faith)
Given the appeal of a long, athletic, 6-foot-9 post prospect with the ability to space the floor and protect the rim, Sutherland remains one of the more perplexing recruiting situations in North Carolina. He checks all the boxes from a physical standpoint while displaying a useful identity on both ends of the floor. Sutherland finishes around the basket, controls the glass, and blocks shots at a nice volume. He excels as a rim-runner who can produce within the flow of the action.