On Tuesday, Phenom Hoops got the chance to check out Northside Christian. Coach Erasto Hatchett is coming off of a 19-8 record last season where they finished 2nd in the NCISAA Metrolina Conference. They will once again be one of the top teams in the NCISAA 2A division as they look to make a run at the state championship. In watching them workout, one thing is for sure, this team will get after it on the defensive end.
The Knights return several key players including leading scorer, 6'7 2023 Wesley Tubbs III. Tubbs is coming off a breakout sophomore year and travel ball season where he earned offers from NC State, Providence, ECU, Ole Miss, ODU, South Carolina, Cincinnati, Wake Forest, Texas A&M, and Hampton. At his size, he has a nice handle and one of his best attributes is being able to make plays for others. He is a high motor player who gets after it on the defensive end. He plays with a ton of passion, and his energy is contagious.
6'8 2023 Aaron Hall is another returner who will see an increased roll this season. He is a tough, physical forward who will provide a mismatch for opponents. He has a strong frame and is really good attacking the cup and finishing through contact. He crashes the glass extremely hard and will create second chance opportunities for his team. Defensively, he can guard a variety of positions. He currently holds an offer from Radford.
6'5 2022 Daniel Lubamba is this team's Swiss Army knife. He is a winner! Whatever is needed to win, he will do. He sets the tone on the defensive end. He is active both on and off the ball, and has the ability to guard multiple positions. Offensively, he excels getting to the basket and finishing strong. Look for him to play a vital role in this team's success.
5'11 2023 Michael Mitchell will have a big year with an increased role at the point guard position with Glynn Hubbard III graduating and continuing his playing career at Queens University. The point guard stood out for his leadership, both vocally and with his actions. He set the tone from the start of practice to the finish. He is a great on-ball defender with quick feet and active hands. On the offensive end, look for him to control the team with his ability to facilitate and make plays for others.
6'9 2024 Isaiah Sutherland is one of the most promising prospects in the NC 2024 class. His combination of size, skill and athleticism will have high major schools on him very soon. He finishes above the rim and can step out and stretch the court to three. On the defensive end, he is very loud and vocal which is a great trait to have, especially at a young age. And he protects the rim at a high level.
6'3 2023 Antonio Perkins will be a great addition to Northside Christian this season. He was a double-digit scorer in each of the last two seasons at Hopewell, playing in arguably to toughest 4A NCHSAA conference in the state. He will provide valuable perimeter shooting and even more size on the perimeter. He can really knock down shots, both off the catch and the bounce.
6'8 2022 Jalen Mattocks will provide even more size and athleticism at the forward/post position. He is versatile on the defensive end with his ability to guard multiple positions and protect the rim.
6'1 2023 Tyler Chapin is a new name to become familiar with in North Carolina. Chapin just moved from Vermont. He is a high IQ guard who will provide valuable perimeter shooting to go along with his ability to make plays off the bounce. He is a tough-minded player who doesn't shy away from contact when attacking the basket.