6’1 ’20 Daveon Dunn (Garner)
There might be more appealing long-term prospects on this roster, but none were more effective than Dunn. He operated as the primary two-way catalyst for Garner throughout this contest, consistently setting the tone with his toughness and intelligent decision-making. Dunn plays under control and works well within the team on both sides of the ball. His motor and overall defensive grit were quite noticeable, as it allowed him to force an abundance of turnovers and make plays in transition quite regularly.
6’6 ’20 Chris Nobles (Garner)
There’s so much to like about this Garner squad, especially given Nobles’ active and reliable two-way presence. He’s a long, wiry, inside-out wing prospect that knows how to cause and exploit mismatches with his versatility. Nobles handles and passes the ball quite well but also moves effectively without the ball to find scoring opportunities in transition or as an off-ball cutter. He has all the tools to make a variety of programs satisfied at the next level.
6’9 ’21 Keeyan Itejere (GRACE Christian)
Although Gibson is the clear leader, no player on this squad has more eye-popping moments than Itejere. His length, athleticism, and nonstop effort make him an absolute headache for the opposition, as it allows him to fill the stat sheet without ever really requiring the ball in his hands. Itejere continues to get stronger physically and more polished as an offensive threat, but already understands what separates him from similar prospects. More programs would be wise to get involved before he truly bursts onto the scene.
6’6 ’20 Ja’Dun Michael (The Burlington School/Wichita State signee)
The Burlington School came out with something to prove here at the John Wall Holiday Invitational, and Michael was at the forefront. The strong, fairly versatile two-way wing prospect shot the ball at a very efficient clip, including multiple three-pointers, and mixed in his normal amount of downhill pressure as a penetrator. Michael is always a difference-maker defensively and on the glass, but is nearly impossible to contain when he’s forcing the opposition to account for him from beyond the arc.
6’10 ’20 Mylyjael Poteat (The Burlington School/Rice signee)
Arguably their most consistent presence all season, Poteat came into this game with somewhat of an underrated reputation and showcased what makes him such a reliable force. He’s easily among the best two-way rebounders in the state, given his hands, body, and ability to outwork or outmuscle opponents from inside the paint. Poteat is extremely tough to contain on the block, able to finish with either hand, make quality passes, or assert himself above the rim. He will only get better during his time at Rice.
6’6 ’21 Redford Dunton (Heritage)
There’s a lot to like with Heritage, and Dunton is clearly one of their main two-way leaders. Aside from his unorthodox shooting mechanics, there’s really nothing to dislike about his game. Dunton has a great feel for the game, knowing how to apply himself without forcing the action and fill in the gaps whenever possible. He attacks the basket well and has the ability to finish strong or set up others but can also knock down the open jumper at a useful clip. Dunton has great size, athleticism, and is capable of defending multiple positions defensively.
6’0 ’23 Will Otto (Broughton)
Few people in attendance at the John Wall Holiday Invitational would’ve expected Broughton to give Farmville Central problems, but Otto was a major factor in their success. He’s young but already extremely poised, polished, and capable of setting the tone on both ends of the floor. Otto is a smart floor general with excellent creation skills but also regularly showcases his toughness and ability to score the ball with efficiency. He’s already extremely talented but will only get better as the clear leader of this squad going forward.
6’0 ’20 Justin Wright (Farmville Central/NC Central signee)
Despite some early team struggles, Wright continues to be the primary decision-maker and driving force for this group. He’s so smart and understands how to play at his own pace, especially with the ball in his hands. Wright can play either guard position due to his blend of shooting and creation ability. He’s thicker than most guards but still possesses the necessary shiftiness to stay in front of opposing ball-handlers. Wright will be phenomenal at NC Central.