Recently, we attended Caldwell Academy’s open gym to get an updated look at their individual pieces and overall team makeup. Coach Clifford is entering his third year at the helm, and this is clearly the most talented roster throughout his tenure. The core of Jaylen Cross, Cole Cloer, King Kendrick, Neal Swindell, Ayden Johnson, Mac Atkinson, and Trevor Holland give them a legitimate rotation of guys who should contribute on a nightly basis. They must be considered on the short list of title contenders in their classification, and have a real chance to win it all this season. Let’s take a look at some takeaways from the practice…
Jaylen Cross is a Natural Leader
In a time when so many kids look at talented teammates as competition rather than support, Cross is an incredible leader. He’s arguably the best defensive player in the state with IQ, strength, athleticism, and a polished offensive skillset. Cross can assume ball-handling duties and initiate the offense or create for others, but also understands how to produce as an off-ball threat within the team structure. Whether attacking the basket, pulling up off the dribble, or hitting jumpers from beyond the arc, he’s a reliable scoring threat from all levels. He’s a great rebounder and nightmarish defender who can guard multiple positions and consistently keep opponents in front. It’s difficult to say anything other than positives about Cross. In addition to being an extremely talented basketball player, he’s also one of the most mature high school players you’ll find.
Cole Cloer is a Major Addition
Though somewhat obvious, adding a polished 6-foot-7 player who averaged 26 PPG last season immediately elevates the Eagles to another level. Cloer is a real matchup problem for the majority of high school opponents. His combination of size, skill, and athleticism allows him to dominate a game with relative ease. Cloer can reliably score from anywhere on the floor and has the creation skills to do it himself or find opportunities without the ball. He’s a fluid athlete who moves well laterally and regularly plays above the rim. In addition to the scoring prowess, Cloer should be one of the top rebounders and shot-blockers on this roster. Already coveted by all types of high-major programs, it’ll be a lot of fun to watch him as a focal point for this group.
King Kendrick is a Clear X-Factor
Coming from Ohio, Kendrick enters North Carolina with a lot of buzz surrounding his name. Upon our first viewing, all the praising comments made sense. It doesn’t take more than a few seconds to recognize his tight handle, sharp vision, and impressive feel for the game. Kendrick dictates the action with tremendous pace and poise, breaking down defenses and knowing the right play before it even materializes. He’s quick and crafty enough to touch the paint at a constant rate, where he’s able to finish or set up others to score. Kendrick knocks down jumpers at a reliable clip and mirrors opposing guards as a defender at the point of attack. Since reclassifying, he should easily be among the top players in North Carolina’s Class of 2027.
Expect Big Seasons from Neal Swindell and Ayden Johnson
While both of these guys did find a lot of success last year, this season should uncover even more opportunities for Swindell and Johnson. In looking at Swindell, he’s smart, unselfish, and well-rounded with an extremely malleable identity. He’s strong enough to defend big men and quick enough to contain perimeter players. Swindell rebounds very well for his size and is capable of pushing the break in transition or making plays with the ball in his hands. He finishes through contact and knocks down jumpers at a solid clip. Meanwhile, Johnson is known for his craftiness and shot-making ability. He’s somewhat undersized but quick enough to break down opponents off the dribble and touch the paint. Johnson is a capable playmaker and overall creator with deep range. He’s able to cause problems for opponents with or without the ball in his hands. Both guys should already be priorities for college coaches.
Mac Atkinson and Trevor Holland Will Be Difference-Makers
Although so much attention goes to the aforementioned group of five, Atkinson and Holland will each play vital roles for the Eagles. Despite not having a ton of playing experience before last season, Atkinson has progressed nicely in the last twelve months. He’s a reliable shooting threat with size, energy, and the ability to produce within a low-maintenance role. On the other hand, Holland is quietly among the better freshmen in the state—especially in terms of guys ready to contribute right now. He’s a quality shooter who plays hard and understands how to fill in the gaps for this group. However, we’ve also seen Holland showcase the full arsenal as a focal point throughout the summer. Given his skillset and array of tools, he will certainly be a prospect to monitor going forward.