Each year in North Carolina, rankings are in constant fluctuation due to the number of prospects that either drastically improve, find a new setting, or maximize an unforeseen opportunity. Sometimes, none of these apply to the actual circumstances. Regardless, this article series will take a look at some of the worthiest prospects due for a likely jump in our rankings. Although various prospects are applicable, we will take a closer look at five specific guys (with their current ranking in parenthesis)…
(#63) 6’6 Jeremy Dixon (Kinston/Team Eat)
It should come as no surprise to see another Kinston prospect emerging as one of the better players in the class, and Jeremy Dixon has been nothing short of impressive over the last calendar year. At a long, wiry 6-foot-6, he possesses the frame, athleticism, and overall skillset to really overwhelm opponents on both ends of the floor. Dixon is a reliable perimeter shooter, especially from beyond the arc, but also regularly applies downhill pressure as a penetrator and finisher. He’s also a strong rebounder and versatile defender with IQ and toughness. After earning a Charleston Southern offer in October, one should expect scholarship-level programs to continue getting involved.
(#102) 6’5 Karon Boyd (Cannon/Charlotte Hoyas)
Although it seems like more coaches have started to pursue the tough, gritty, versatile two-way wing/forward, Karon Boyd is quietly among the more underrated players in the state. He’s a natural leader by example with the combination of IQ, motor, and dog-like qualities to consistently rip opponents to shreds. Boyd is adaptable to his surrounding teammates, which is evident in all possible settings. He displays an understanding of how to produce within a role for Cannon but can easily expand his production as needed, as showcased with the Charlotte Hoyas. Boyd embodies winning, and never wavers in his team-first approach to the game. It’s difficult to envision a scenario where Boyd doesn’t end the summer with a flurry of offers.
(#113) 6’6 Josh Scovens (Page/NC Gaters)
Possibly the most overlooked player on this list, it’s truly perplexing as to why Josh Scovens doesn’t already have at least a dozen scholarship opportunities in hand. Putting his dynamic skillset to the side for a brief moment, Scovens’ IQ, frame, and off-court persona immediately makes him a desirable prospect. Add in his blossoming two-way abilities, and Scovens is rapidly transitioning into a nightmare for opposing wing/forwards. His progression into an all-around offensive machine allows him to create for himself and others while effortlessly picking his spots from all three levels. However, despite becoming more skilled, Scovens hasn’t compromised his interior abilities as a scorer, defender, or rebounder. As mentioned above, expect him to become a hot commodity over the coming months.
(NR) 6’7 Broderick Ellis (NC GBB Academy/Sheed Wallace Select)
Though he was overlooked in his original class, Broderick Ellis has more than solidified himself as one of the better prospects in the Class of 2022. Given his tough, versatile two-way identity, it’s easy to see why all types of scholarship-level coaches are getting involved. Ellis is a useful inside-out offensive threat with the ability to create for himself and others, operate within the two-man game, and apply efficient scoring pressure from all levels. He’s also extremely tough and displays quality feel on either end of the floor, which allows him to make an impact as a rebounder and defender. Ellis is equally reliable in transition as the half-court, and tends to cause matchup problems for opposing forwards. After earning a Navy offer, one should expect college coaches to continue getting involved.
(NR) 6’3 Jeremiah Scales (Glenn/All Carolina)
Unlike the previous name, there is no real excuse for the omission of Jeremiah Scales within the rankings. Not only has he been a productive staple at our events for quite a while, but his leadership and abilities also seamlessly carry into the high school season with Glenn. Scales is a big, strong, physical wing prospect who consistently plays bigger than his size in all facets of the game. He’s an excellent rebounder with the necessary skill to push the break and apply transition pressure or settle the action and operate within the half-court. Scales is a quality athlete with a lethal midrange jumper, excellent finishing skills, and the ability to knock down three-pointers at a solid clip. He’s also a versatile defender with quality instincts on that end of the floor. Scales should quickly become a priority for next-level programs.