In looking at the young talent spread across South Carolina, it became increasingly obvious that Lancaster should start trending upward as much as any program in the state. They’ve had some struggles over the past few years but should have optimism about the foreseeable future, especially given their young, talented roster. They have a pair of productive, reliable senior veterans in Omazeon Tinsley and Janyle Pittman. Tinsley is undersized but manages the game at a quality level, offering a nice balance between scoring and playmaking. He’s extremely quick and utilizes his first step to get downhill and attack the basket or pull-up from midrange. Pittman is also somewhat undersized but stands out as one of the most productive all-around players in the state. He’s so strong, physical, and explosive but also possesses IQ and a well-rounded skillset, making him a nightly matchup problems for opposing forwards.
Two guys almost certainly isn’t enough to make a title run, so luckily they’ve got a duo of young prospects in Jimieon Brown and Ladarian McCree. Aside from maybe McCree and Tinsley, there is no real overlap in the positional structure among these four—which allows them to all regularly coexist together. Brown is long and possesses phenomenal instincts as a rebounder, rim-protector, and overall defensive player. He displays IQ, timing, touch around the basket, and has a frame that will only continue to get stronger at the next level. All types of scholarship-level programs would be wise to start heavily pursuing Brown before he becomes a hot commodity. Meanwhile, McCree is a phenomenal floor general with an incredibly calm, poised demeanor with the ball in his hands. He scores the ball effectively from all levels but actively looks to create for others whenever possible. McCree makes intelligent decisions, affects all facets of the game, and knows how to make plays from either backcourt position. There’s a lot of appeal within this roster, both for college coaches and someone trying to predict a dark horse championship contender.