6’4 ’20 Kalib Matthews (Henderson Collegiate)
Thus far, no player has been better than Matthews, who was the main two-way leader in Henderson Collegiate’s early win. He’s such a matchup problem, given his blend of IQ, size, skill, and three-level scoring. No opponent was actually able to contain him, but Matthews still displayed unselfishness and applied scoring pressure within the flow of the game. He knocked down multiple three-pointers, but it was his constant leadership and rebounding ability that stood out above all else. DI and DII coaches should be laying groundwork with Matthews.
6’4 ’21 Akhiris Holden (Henderson Collegiate)
There are a lot of useful pieces on this team, which certainly includes Holden, who was among their most consistent competitors in this contest. He doesn’t require the ball to make an impact and affected the game quite well with his motor, rebounding, and defensive prowess. Holden isn’t necessarily flashy, but that’s a big part of what makes him so effective.
6’3 ’21 Troy Fulton (Lincoln Charter)
Through five games, no player has shot the ball better than Fulton, who seemingly didn’t miss during their battle with Henderson Collegiate. He’s a terrific spot-up threat that knows his identity and is ready to let it fly at all times. Fulton knocked down an abundance of shots and had multiple four-point plays in this contest.
6’3 ’22 Sam Cogan (Lincoln Charter)
As impressive as Fulton was, Cogan was Lincoln Charter’s most reliable and consistent performer on either end of the floor. He has a very smooth, productive all-around game, which allows him to operate within a variety of different roles for this team. Cogan does a great job of dictating the offensive action and making intelligent decisions with the ball in his hands. He scores the ball efficiently from all three levels and can work well as the primary creator. Cogan defends and rebounds quite well for his position.
6’3 ’23 Peyton Scott (Butler JV)
There is a lot to be excited about with the Butler JV team, particularly with Scott and his useful all-around game. He was easily the most productive player on either team and showed flashes of absolute dominance during this contest. He doesn’t shoot it very much, but simply doesn’t need to, given how well he attacks the basket and finishes at through contact. Scott has terrific two-way rebounding instincts and possesses the necessary versatility to play at least three positions at the high school level. He was also the youngest player on the team, which is another encouraging sign for his long-term projection.
6’0 ’20 TJ McMaster (Dudley)
Though missing some major pieces, Dudley looked quite solid behind the consistent point guard play of McMaster. He’s smart, quick, and knows how to control the offensive action nicely. McMaster has been the best true playmaker on display thus far, mainly due to his unwavering approach and emphasis on getting others involved. With Taron Trotman graduated, McMaster could easily be the primary creator for next season.
6’4 ’20 Isaiah Hairston (Greater Beckley Christian)
The Greater Beckley squad had some intriguing pieces, but none as productive as Hairston, a strong-bodied post prospect with soft touch and excellent strength. He clears out space very well for rebounds and knows how to run the floor with purpose. Hairston is slightly undersized, but knows how to assert his will against various different prospects.