6’2 Dominic Payne (Trinity)
Payne is a big guard/wing with a strong frame and well-rounded skillset. He’s comfortable controlling the offense, creating for himself and others, and making his presence felt as a rebounder on both ends of the floor. Payne is also capable of defending multiple positions. He’s currently averaging 32.7 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 5.1 APG, and 1.1 SPG.
6’1 Makel Smith (Morehead)
Smith is a smart, steady point guard with the ability to produce in several different roles based on surrounding teammates. He’s a useful playmaker, but also showcases a lot of polish as a scorer from all levels. Smith is a sharp defender at the point of attack, which leads to forced turnovers and consistent transition play. He’s currently averaging 31.7 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 3.2 APG, 2.5 SPG, and 1.2 BPG with impressive 49/44/81 shooting splits.
6’2 Champ Hayden (North Hills Christian)
The only player listed who is posting a nightly double-double, Hayden is a strong, physical guard with a nice blend of athleticism and shot-creation ability. He generates clean looks well off the bounce and is capable of applying pressure from all levels. Hayden offers a scrappy defensive presence and plays with a high motor on the glass. He’s currently averaging 31.7 PPG, 10.9 RPG, and 2.9 SPG with 49/33/69 shooting splits.
6’0 Shamel Baker (East Carteret)
The two-headed monster of Matheka and Baker continue to shine for the Mariners. Baker is a quick, heady lead guard with a strong penetration sense, reliable jumper, and excellent open-floor ability. He’s a great defender at the point of attack and pushes the break very well in transition. Baker also possesses a tight handle, nice passing vision, and useful spot-up ability. He’s currently averaging 28.2 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 4.2 APG, and 4.6 SPG with 41/37/73 shooting splits.
5’10 Zeke Brock (Cape Fear Christian)
Brock returns to the upper echelon of scorers in North Carolina for a second straight year. As a sophomore, he showcased his playmaking ability (10.8 APG). As a junior, he displayed the full scoring arsenal (34.6 PPG). Now, Brock has found the perfect balance between the two. He’s a balanced, skilled lead guard who knows how to run a team, get others involved, and apply constant scoring pressure. Brock is currently averaging 25.8 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 5.1 APG, and 2.8 SPG with 55/34/88 shooting splits.
