Mallard Creek brings in a new coach in Coach McNeil, as they look to get back on the winning track and make their mark in the Charlotte area.' Getting a chance to watch this team during their open gym, this is a program that will look to be faster, pushing the pace and scoring in transition.' They will have a chance to spread the floor with the number of guards on the court, but they will have to have a team mentality on the defensive end and on the boards with the lack of size.
But overall, this is a coaching staff that is excited about their team early on and has a nice blend of experience and talent on the court. Let's dive into a few players that we saw
2021 Austin Johnson
One of a few seniors on the team this season, Johnson played in all 25 games last year and found success.' But he now will look to be one of the go-to guys for this team.' He has good size, can push and handle in transition, and can also help get on the boards.' Johnson is going to be one that this team needs to impact the floor in several ways and fill up the stat sheet, as well as be a leader on the floor.
2022 Dontavious 'DJ' Paige
Paige is one to really watch out for in his junior season.' This young man returns with another year under his belt, coming off a season in which he averaged nearly nine points per game, shot 43 percent from the floor and 46 percent from three.' He plays with a smooth feel but also can change direction/pace with the ball in his hands well.' Paige has a chance to really make a name for himself this season and be a go-to scorer.
2021 Merdi Asumani
Asumani is going to have to be one of those do-it-all type prospects, especially with the lack of size this team may have this year.' Asumani though could create some trouble for opponents with his ability to step out, run the floor, and score from multiple areas.' He also adds athleticism to the floor on both sides of the floor.
2021 Brandon Cherry
Bringing another guard to the court, Cherry will help in being a ball-handler for this group but also another option in playing off the ball and scoring.' He showcases a strong frame, good IQ and feel on the court, and plays unselfishly, finding his teammates in open spots in transition.
2022 Jaden Smith
Smith is one that can be a two-way player force for this team, defending and creating havoc against opponents but also knocking down shots and showcasing his athleticism on the court.
2023 Jordan McElderry
McElderry is a 6'7, long and wiry prospect that brings explosiveness on the court, on both ends.' He is still raw in areas offensively but he is a mobile big that can run the floor in transition, help get on the boards, and finish at the rim.
2022 Titus Cunningham
Not the biggest forward on the court but he is one that could help create mismatches for Mallard Creek.' He has nice touch around the rim, moves well without the ball, and brings another athletic prospect to the table.
Other players like 2023 Bryson Davis, 2023 Russell Hawkins, and 2021 Bryce Funderburk will also be names that provide depth for this team.