When looking around the state of North Carolina, Lake Norman has to be a program on everyone’s minds as potential title contenders with what they bring to the table this year. People know about 2025 Tre McKinnon and 2025 Trent Steinour, but there are guards that will be huge pieces to the team’s success. 2026 Nick Arnold and 2025 Josh Yates will be pivotal parts to Lake Norman’s success, especially with these being tough as nails on the court.
Arnold has been one on our radars for quite some time now and we continue to be impressed with his impact on the court. He flourishes on both sides of the court and plays with such an IQ, showing his ability to be a relentless creator, facilitator, and tough-as-nails scorer who is relentless and doesn’t back down from anyone. His game has a natural leadership quality and shines with this group at Lake Norman. Yates is another “tough as nails” type of guard that impacts the game for Lake Norman, whether he can score off the dribble, knock down shots from the perimeter, or can be another playmaker for others. He plays with a competitive edge and with something to prove, giving Lake Norman another weapon in helping lead the charge.
If this team wants to accomplish its goal this season for a title, Arnold and Yates will be two key pieces to that puzzle.
What Has Been Said:
2026 Nick Arnold
“He’s a smart, quick, heady two-way floor general who comfortably dictates the action while consistently outworking his assignment. Arnold is a poised, highly polished playmaker with sharp vision, a tight handle, and the ability to access creative angles with the ball in his hands. He’s an excellent penetrator and finisher through contact, but primarily looks to create opportunities for others.”
2025 Josh Yates
“Love the toughness & confidence that 6’0 2025 Josh Yates plays with. Plays with a chip on his shoulder. Has the ability to get hot from behind the arc. Crafty playmaker who keeps defenders on their heels.”