2022 Xavier McKelvy (Charlotte Royals): With college coaches sitting baseline, I fully expect more offers to come his way and he showed why in Game 1 at the Summer Havoc. You can almost get mesmerized in his play with his frame, his smoothness, his change of pace and direction, and his athleticism. He was scoring once again from all areas with a ton of confidence but that is nothing new to see.
2022 Joel Baucom (Mint Hill Lakers): Really do believe that Baucom is giving college coaches a glimpse of his overall game and that he isn’t just a shooter, even though he is a good one. He makes terrific decisions to get his teammates involved but also to create for himself since opponents have to respect his ability to knock down the outside shot. Really showing it all lately on the court.
2022 Marcus Willis (Charlotte Royals): Though McKelvy played well, Willis was right there and with college coaches on the baseline, he should attract some attention. What immediately stands out is his speed and quickness on both ends, creating turnovers and excelling in the open floor, getting downhill and putting the pressure on the defense. Willis is such a scrappy guard that can play at the next level and is one that could be in for a big weekend.
2022 Deng Atak (NL Disciples): Freedom Christian is going to be an interesting school to watch with the underrated talent they have. Atak is going to be another one of those players, as he played extremely well in knocking down shots behind the arc and then attacking to get to the line.
2023 Matai Baptiste (Vaughan): The more I watch Baptiste, the more I like about his game. He already looks the part with his 6’7 frame and size, but he has a terrific skill set and creates a tough matchup with his ability to get to the rim, create off the dribble, and then step out with his outside shot.
2022 Jaxon Ellingsworth (Brand X): I’m going to be a little surprised if Ellingsworth doesn’t walk away with more interest from schools because this young man continues to produce. The 6’8 forward is skilled and fluid on the court. He is active in so many ways, whether it is scoring in and around the paint, as well as getting on the boards. I think there are things that college coaches certainly could work with and his game.