6'1 '25 Hamilton Huit (Elite One)

Given his nonstop production over the weekend, it should be easy to understand what made Huit an obvious standout for this Elite One group. He did a strong amount of everything, from scoring and passing to rebounding and defending, and made sure his impact was felt on nearly every possession. He set the tone offensively and regularly asserted himself as a scorer from all levels. 

5'10 '25 Brayden Hendrix (Upward Stars Pee Dee)

Though the entire team could be listed as standouts, Hendrix was arguably their main leader throughout this contest. He did a nice job of setting up others and finding scoring opportunities within the flow of the offense while defending effectively at the point of attack. Hendrix is a useful all-around guard with an understanding of how to embrace his role with this group. 

6'4 '23 Tracy Stephens (Carolina Pressure)

Despite their strong balance as a group, Stephens stood out among their top contributors through his strong presence inside the paint. He's big and strong with soft hands, solid mobility, and rebounding instincts. Stephens shows a willingness to utilize his body and make hustle plays whenever possible. He finished effectively around the basket and does a great job of anchoring the paint defensively by walling-up. 

6'2 '25 Marco Tampoya (Carolina Riptide)

Though young, there's already a lot to like with this Carolina Riptide squad'who has largely maintained their core over the last few years. That being said, Tampoya stood out as one of their main leaders on both ends of the floor with his all-around skillset. Not only has he continued to add strength and develop physically, but his skillset has also improved over the last calendar year. Their chemistry as a group is impressive, and Tampoya's ability to make plays and battle on the glass is certainly vital to their operation. 

6'4 '23 Michael Nesbit (Team Hope) 

The Team Hope organization has trended upward as much as any independent program in North Carolina over the last year, and Nesbit continues to look like a name worth noting. He's a long, wiry guard prospect with a nice combination of IQ, skill, and athleticism. Nesbit can assume secondary ball-handling duties and is capable of creating effectively for himself and others'though he often operates as an off-ball threat. It'll be interesting to track his development over the next few years, as he should be a very useful piece for South Meck. 

6'2 '22 Umar Lawson (Anthony Morrow Elite)

It should come as no surprise to anyone who watched this game, but Lawson simply overwhelmed the opposition with his nonstop motor and transition game. Virtually unstoppable in the open floor, Lawson looked to get downhill on every rebound and forced turnover. He finished through contact, above the rim, and knocked down perimeter jumpers. Scholarship-level coaches should be prioritizing. 

5'10 '24 Will Googins (Carolina Riptide)

Although their entire roster is quite balanced, Googins still stood out as one the most impressive performers from this contest. He's so smart and tough with a high motor and the ability to naturally make winning plays on either side of the ball. Googins is a reliable passer, shooter, and defender with sharp instincts and a quality understanding of how to make an impact with or without the ball in his hands.