6'6 '23 Clinton Efinda (Combine Regional)
It doesn't take very long to identify Efinda as one of the most talented players on this roster. He's a big, strong, physical wing prospect with the ability to get downhill and finish above the rim or through contact seemingly whenever he wants. Efinda is a capable creator and perimeter shooter who forces opponents to respect his spot-up presence. He's a real matchup problem and basically unstoppable around the basket because of his raw power, fluidity, and positional size, as a vast majority of wings are far too weak to contain him and most forwards aren't mobile enough to chase him around.
6'8 '25 Preston Copeland (Raleigh Christian)
Although it's easy to appreciate the balance of Raleigh Christian, but one would expect Copeland to be receiving more buzz from the masses. He's a strong, mobile big man with touch, athleticism, and plenty of upside remaining. Copeland already finds consistent success as a low-maintenance interior piece on both ends of the floor. He can reliably finish, rebound, block shots, and run the floor properly in transition. Copeland is only going to get better over the foreseeable future.
6'5 '24 Rakease Passmore (Combine Academy)
Commonly known as the most explosive athlete in every gym, Passmore showcased the ability to be a knockdown shooter throughout this contest. He's long, tough, and seems to get better with each new viewing. Since joining this group, Passmore has continually gotten better at simplifying the game and dominating within his role. He made his presence felt as a defender, rebounder, and transition threat, but also converted three-pointers at a higher percentage than anyone on either team (particularly given his volume). Passmore should be a nightly leader for this group over the remainder of the season.
5'11 '26 Cameron Newman (Gaston Christian)
It's easy to be impressed with how this Gaston Christian squad competed, and Newman stands at the forefront of this team's identity. He's incredibly smart and poised, especially for his age, and dictates the action as well as any freshman point guard you'll find. Newman is a crafty, yet secure ball-handler with excellent pace, vision, and instincts as a playmaker and defender. He's already a trustworthy creator and overall leader who provides a reliable presence with the ball in his hands. Expect to hear Newman's name a lot over the coming years, as nothing is preventing him from maintaining his status as one of the top floor generals in the state.