Southwest Guilford:
6’0 ’27 Brayden Gatling
It’s pretty easy to recognize the leadership Gatling brings to this group. He dictated the action in a steady, reliable manner while consistently probing the defense, making smart reads, and scoring as needed. Gatling didn’t hit shots at his usual percentage but still did well to generate clean looks and attack the basket at a high rate. He offered a solid defensive presence and made several plays in transition.
6’4 ’28 Darnell Howze
Although he only played in the first half, there’s certainly intrigue surrounding Howze as a long-term prospect. He’s still adding strength and harnessing his general skillset but already naturally impacts the game on both ends of the floor. Howze possesses nice length, an active motor, and a great nose for the ball. He finishes well around the basket, rebounds at a consistent rate, and displays quality defensive instincts. Though early, Howze has the tools to become a prospect worth noting.
5’8 ’25 Kamar Billie-Fanning
While his numbers might not necessarily explode off the page, Billie-Fanning was arguably the Cowboys’ biggest x-factor in this contest. Despite being the smallest player on either team, he consistently stepped up in critical moments to create problems for the opposition. Billie-Fanning is a quick, scrappy guard with the ability to penetrate and finish, knock down the open jumper, and set up others in scoring positions. He’s an impactful defender who regularly outworks opponents for rebounds and loose balls.
Grimsley:
6’5 ’26 Faizon Brandon
In addition to being one of the top football players in the country, Brandon possesses a lot of ability on the court. He’s a gifted athlete with impressive size, length, and all-around athleticism. Brandon primarily applies pressure at the basket but can also hit an open jumper or attack off the bounce and make plays. He’s a quality finisher and rebounder who consistently crashes the glass and earns second-chance opportunities. Brandon utilizes his length well to contain his assignment defensively. Although he will pursue football in college, he will remain an asset for the Whirlies as long as he continues to play.
6’3 ’28 Isaiah Whitsett
After somewhat of a slow start, Whitsett ended up being as valuable as anyone during this contest. He hit shots, applied pressure as a penetrator, and got to the line (and converted) at a terrific rate. Whitsett appeared comfortable creating for himself and others or finding opportunities as an off-ball threat. Given his age, he already possesses an enticing blend of feel, creation skills, and scoring polish. Whitsett should only continue to trend upward as a focal point for this group going forward.
6’2 ’26 Henry Trent
Every team can utilize a well-rounded piece like Trent. He’s a steady, unselfish guard who defends, rebounds, and scores from all levels. Trent didn’t hit three-pointers at his usual rate, which led to an increased volume of penetrating and finishing at the basket. He has a great nose for the ball and regularly finds himself in the mix making a play. Trent plays to his strengths, operates within the team structure, and offers valuable production to this group.