There are a ton of factors involved when ranking players. It’s important to remember that so much of these practices are rooted in subjective, opinion-based ideologies. If two players possess equal talent levels yet have completely different identities, then you’ll naturally receive split answers about who is better. Although it’s nice to have universally agreeable takes, differing viewpoints are actually better for the game. Consider the topic for this article as an example. We will take a closer look at why Mason Collins should be considered the top prospect in North Carolina’s Class of 2028, however, names like AJ Morman, Jaleel Smith, Chase Smith, JJ Sati-Grier, Brelyn Moses, and several others certainly deserve to be in the conversation. Either way, let’s take a closer look at Collins and what makes him so enticing…
Coming off a freshman year where he won a state championship as a key piece for Christ School, Collins already possesses the positional size, refined skill, and overall understanding of what it takes to be a high-level player. Although his per-game averages of 9.0 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 2.2 APG, and 1.0 SPG (with 37% from beyond the arc) might not explode off the page, it’s worth noting that he started alongside four other Division I players. Collins is already very mature for his age, both on and off the court, and understands how to produce in several different roles. Although most people tend to think of elite prospects as someone who dominates the ball, Collins is able to shine in various ways. He certainly can dictate the action and hunt for his own shot if needed. However, Collins is able to lead by example and find reliable production within the flow of the action. He sets up others, poses a constant shooting threat, and displays a phenomenal understanding of when to assert himself. Collins possesses a high IQ and malleable game with an all-around skillset. At 6-foot-6 with motor, instincts, and fluidity, it’s easy to see the appeal. Given everything he’s shown over the last calendar year, Collins should continue trending as one of the top players in the country.