Each year, there are hundreds of underclassmen within North Carolina with the ability to contribute on varsity. However, often times the ones who actually succeed are those with the ability to recognize their role and maximize their value'something that Evan Montanari has done quite well over the last calendar year. Even on an East Lincoln team led by seniors in Justin Kuthan and Myles Adams, Montanari already understands and embraces his identity. Despite frequently being labeled a shooter or spot-up threat, he was the team's third-leading scorer at 12 PPG and should be a likely candidate to emerge as a leader by next season.
Although Montanari had a productive season with East Lincoln, we've primarily seen him operate with the Lincolnton Flames during travel ball season. In that setting, he highlighted the full arsenal, hitting jumpers, taking opponents off the dribble, forcing turnovers, and filling in the gaps wherever possible. He plays with a quality motor and overall understanding of how to properly assert himself within the flow of the team. Montanari is a willing passer and scrappy defender that isn't afraid to mix it up with bigger/stronger opponents.
It's still somewhat early in Montanari's overall development and recruitment process, as he should continue to physically grow and progress his game to the next level. It's still early but the foundation is in place for him to become a very productive high school player, especially considering what he's already shown. College coaches would be smart to start monitoring Montanari sooner than later, as he could certainly become a contributor for a college program over time.
