Head coach Pat McCarthy is back with Lake Norman Christian and looking to put this program back on the map. After playing a national schedule last year, Lake Norman Christian went through some changes and added some key pieces to this year’s team. We were able to get a great glimpse of this team during Phenom Hoops’ Open Gym Tour, so let’s dive into what we saw.
The Veterans
Lake Norman Christian lost some incredible talent from last year’s team but there is still plenty of talent returning that will help lead the charge for this team. 2022 Shane Fernald is one of them, as the forward should make an impact in an array of ways. He has the ability to score around the basket as well as step out and be a threat from outside, and he also brings a frame to really be an impact on the boards. You have to love his vocal leadership on the court, as he will be one the coaches will depend on greatly this year. 2022 JP Haggarty is also another one, as Haggarty sports a good size and the ability to be a true perimeter threat from outside with his shot. 2023 Josh Bullock also returns, giving Lake Norman a guard that can help run the show, be an impact scorer, create for himself, and also be another leader on the court. All three will be depended on big this season for Lake Norman Christian.
New names to the team but experienced
Lake Norman Christian added several key pieces to this team, several of which have plenty of experience playing at a high level. 2022 Khalil Marshall is a quick, shifty point guard that is getting use to the program and should fill a nice role as a playmaker on the court. Marshall, who played at Word of God before, brings a terrific crossover and has the ability to create space for himself and get players involved. 2022 Christian Cornish is another prospect to really keep an eye on. One of the most physical prospects in North Carolina, Cornish has put in the work to elevate his offensive game. He continues to bring a tremendous motor and plays with a physical feel on the court, but also showed that he is more consistent with his perimeter game also.
Breakout season'
One player that really captured several eyes at the open gym and could quickly be a name for coaches to jump on is 2022 6’7 Tyrone Barbee. Coming from Harrells Christian Academy, Barbee put up some impressive numbers averaging 19.8 points and 9.4 rebounds per game. Now, heads to Lake Norman Christian where he could bring that same production. Watching him operate, Barbee brings a ton of versatility and potential with his game; he showcases tremendous athleticism, a terrific perimeter game from all levels, can create for himself, runs the floor, brings energy, and understands how to get the ball on the rim or finish strong. Barbee may be a new name for some but watch out for this young man.
Others looking to step up
2024 Khamare Holmes is a young prospect but what that has a lot of potential. Already sporting a good size at 6’3, he can play on and off the ball, can be an offensive threat, and plays with a great IQ and feel for the game; and yet he is still a developing project. 2024 Jalen Chambers gave us a glimpse of his ability to knock down shots from three, getting to his spots and letting it fly with no hesitation. Also keep an eye on 2024 Jermari Hawk, a young 6’7 big that had some flashes that should make him enticing down the road as he continues to work.