Ardrey Kell, led by head coach Mike Craft, has certainly been a well-known program in North Carolina over the years, producing some strong talent over the years. This year isn't anything different, as many already know about the senior guard Evan Smith who is committed to Army. But there are others to look at for this team, as the Knights are playing extremely well to start the season.
Senior Tony Akinyelu is another leader for this team and one that plays a pivotal role. Ardrey Kell isn't the biggest team by any means, not really having a true center this year. But Akinyelu is a 6'6 forward that plays bigger and stronger down in the post for the Knights while also being a good rebounder, one that can step out and operate, and moves well on both sides of the floor.
Then you look at two juniors that have been also producing, both of which really can be a threat with their jumper. 2023 Brandon Nelson has only continued to work on his game and become an even more confident shooter from behind the arc. 2023 Brock Rose is another rising prospect in the area, as he has really become one of the go-to scorers for this team, averaging nearly 15ppg. Rose does a great job in getting to his spots and being a threat with his pull-up game and 3-point shooting, as he is shooting nearly 50 percent from the floor.
You also have other players like 2024 Delani Hammonds, who is a point guard that plays with terrific poise, sees the floor, finds his teammates well and uses his quickness to score as well. And don't forget other players like 2023 Trenton Gerald, 2024 Jake Weckerle, and others that all have played a vital role in this team's success this season.
The Knights are off to a 9-2 start this season and this has been a complete team effort. Though Smith gets a lot of the recognition, there are several other players that have stepped up to the plate and contributed.
