6’6 ’25 Christian Ananaba (Southeast Raleigh)
With so many college coaches in search of the next diamond in the rough, Ananaba seems like an obvious target for scholarship-level programs. Between his length, athleticism, and versatility, it’s quite perplexing to try and understand why he’s not talked about more across the state. Amidst a dominant showing at our Team Camp, Ananaba displayed ball skills, shot-making ability, and explosiveness as a finisher. He’s able to rebound like a big, defend multiple positions, and cause problems for opponents in transition. Right now, it feels like Ananaba is one of the more underrated, under-recruited prospects in North Carolina.
6’4 ’26 KJ Shouse (Carolina International)
After watching him over these last few seasons, it’s quite clear that Shouse is ready to take the next step in his development. Previously known for his abilities as a glue-guy who outworked opponents and did the dirty work, he’s morphed into a legitimate all-around leader. Shouse truly did everything for this group. He initiated the offense, created for himself and others, scored from all levels, and maintained his phenomenal presence as a workhorse rebounder and versatile defender. It would be impossible to say anything other than positives about Shouse and the clear work he’s put in over the recent months. Expect him to be a breakout player this season.
6’8 ’25 Chase Williams (West Bladen)
Since our previous viewing, it’s easy to see how much Williams has blossomed as an overall prospect. Clearly a scholarship-level guy, he overwhelms opponents through his energy, rebounding presence, and adaptability on offense. Williams is a strong, physical forward/post prospect who simply outworks everyone on the court. He’s quite mobile for his size, which allows him to reliably switch onto smaller guards when necessary. Williams finishes well around the basket and can space the floor at a solid rate. He’s the ultimate team-first player who should appeal to a variety of different programs.
6’7 ’26 Jordan Buzzard (East Meck)
In terms of tools and trajectory, Buzzard is incredibly enticing. Although we see him quite regularly, it feels like he genuinely gets better every time he touches the court. Buzzard is already a highly impressive defender with the timing, instincts, and athleticism to cause a ton of problems for opponents. He rebounds at a high volume and knows how to properly run the floor in transition. Offensively, Buzzard continues to blossom. He finishes with either hand, plays above the rim, and spaces the floor well for his size/position. It’s truly all starting to come together for Buzzard, but it feels like he’s only going to continue progressing over the next calendar year.
6’1 ’26 Darius Whitner (Garner)
Though there are several meaningful prospects from Garner who deserve attention from college coaches, it’s difficult to ignore everything Whitner brings to the table as a leader. He’s an incredibly tough, smart, well-rounded guard who impacts the game on both ends of the floor. Whitner plays with an edge and naturally tends to overwhelm opponents with his rugged approach to the game. Whether attacking the basket, hitting pull-ups, or converting jumpers from beyond the arc, he’s proven to be a reliable scoring option in a myriad of ways. Whitner is also a reliable playmaker with the necessary handle and vision to generate opportunities for others. His combination of toughness, motor, and athleticism makes him a quality defender and useful rebounder. Expect him to have a notable season for the Trojans.