After a lot of stressors throughout the last twelve to fourteen months, the grassroots basketball landscape has finally returned to normalcy. The shoe-circuits and high school LIVE periods were restored for the betterment of these young prospects who are simply fighting for an equal opportunity to advance to the collegiate ranks. Although this presents Division I programs with the chance to start attending events, most non-D1s have already been allowed to travel over the last year or so. So, with the NCHSAA and NCISAA LIVE periods quickly approaching, we figured it would be beneficial to take a closer look at the expected talent on display. This article will look at the Chargers of Cox Mill…
Schedule:
6/18: Cox Mill v. Chapel Hill
6/18: Cox Mill v. South Meck
6/19: Cox Mill v. Ben L. Smith
6/19: Cox Mill v. Northern Guilford
6/20: Cox Mill v. Butler
6/20: Cox Mill v. Hopewell
Key Returners:
5'11 '22 Marcus Morgan
6'5 '22 Rasheed Baldwin
6'2 '22 Cameron Goodwin
Key Additions:
5'10 '22 CJ Wilson
Key Departures:
6'0 '21 Chris Hunter
6'3 '21 Isaiah Nelson
6'3 '21 Jaylen Hamilton
6'3 '21 John Anthony Baker
6'2 '21 Zach Riddle
5'11 '21 Noah McClanahan
6'4 '21 Tyler Powell
Outlook:
Despite undergoing as much roster turnover as any team across North Carolina, folks should still expect Cox Mill to remain extremely competitive with their current roster. Given the departure of seven seniors (basically an entire rotation), the Chargers are slated to lose nearly 80% of their total scoring. Balanced teams tend to consistently find success at the high school level, but they could also struggle in situations like this one.
However, there should still be a lot of optimism between Coach Ty Johnson and the teammate trio from Charlotte Hoyas. In looking at their most productive returner, Morgan should be a definite leader and tone-setter for this group. Already ranking second on the team in average rebounds, assists, and steals, it would be shocking if his numbers didn't continue to increase across the board. He's an excellent defender and penetrator with the ability to set up others or finish through contact. Morgan also rebounds very well for his size and makes smart decisions with the ball in his hands.
Meanwhile, Baldwin's role and expected production should expand as much as anyone on the roster'especially given his play during the current summer season. The appeal of a 6-foot-5 shooter with length, useful athleticism, and defensive ability should be fairly obvious. Baldwin typically looks to torch opponents with his reliable three-point shooting, but can also attack closeouts and finish or make the necessary pass. Folks should expect to see an uptick in his recruitment sooner than later.
Although the aforementioned duo will be incredibly important, guys like Cameron Goodwin and CJ Wilson should also be major x-factors for the Chargers. Goodwin returns as a capable glue-guy with the ability to make hustle plays and fill in the gaps within the flow of the action. On the other hand, Wilson should be a seamless addition to their current roster. His combination of IQ, toughness, and playmaking sense will make him an extremely vital and productive cog for Cox Mill. Expect each of the aforementioned names to see an uptick in their respective recruitments, as the Chargers should remain relevant throughout the upcoming season.