By: DeAjai Dawkins
6’2 2024 Bobby Hardison (Carolina Riptide 2024/Lake Norman)
I’ve been aware of Bobby for a full year now, and have watched him really begin to come into his own. Coming off a solid freshman season playing with the junior varsity squad, Hardison’s ability to score from all 3-levels at a fair rate should lead him to being a varsity-level contributor. I think the cast making up this roster should serve Hardison welled we he’ll be able to learn from some solid talent in the coming year.
6’7 2023 Wesley Tubbs III (Team United/Northside Christian Academy)
Proving himself to be one of the most versatile players of either session, Tubbs displayed his usual balance of defensive intensity and vocal presence. To go along with these traits, he did a good job of putting the ball in the basket today, finishing with 20 points against Sheed Wallace Select in one game. Already receiving high major offers from varying conferences, the remaining question lies in how Tubbs III will continue and ultimately finish out his high school career these next two seasons.
6’1 2023 Daniel Fernandez (Team Hardaway 2023/Westminster Christian School)
The catalyst to this group, Fernandez has soccer-like conditioning, as he could play the entirety of a game if he was called upon to do so. His efficiency stands out the most, rarely forcing the issue and as a result, rarely making mistakes. He’s strong and uses his frame to force his way into the paint, and zips passes to open teammates. Overall, Fernandez impacts winning at a high level and for that reason his coach has the ultimate faith in him.
6’1 2024 Nylan Battle (Rim Runners/Hibriten)
Nylan impressed me today as a combo guard with a strong lower body, who gets into the paint for both assists and posts of his own. He showed an ability to finish through contact and knocked down perimeter size as well. Skillfully he’s a sound player, with the body to develop into something potentially very threatening in the coming years.