Central Cabarrus looking locked in early
There is no doubt about it. Central Cabarrus looks locked in and ready this season after coming up just short last year for a state title. Whether it was at the Hoop State Fall League or this weekend at the Jamboree, this is a program that looks determined to finish the season with it all and has one goal on its mind. They defeated the opponents by an average of 46 points per game at the event, and their style of play is something that is hard to match. This is a team that is experienced, has added a few more pieces, has had its players develop even more, and are simply all over the court. If you aren't on the train yet, I'm telling you now… Central Cabarrus is going to be a name you hear a lot this year.
Forsyth Country Day looks stronger
A team that I was intrigued by at the event was Forsyth Country Day. Last year, we mentioned that this is a program that has young talent and was one that should only get better with more experience. Now, it is a year later, they have that year under their belt, and they looked even stronger as the Jamboree. Forsyth just had a different feel to them at the event, embracing the fight, looking stronger and more physical, and just having a better understanding of how to win games. This is why this could be a program to watch out for as they sneak into the race and into the playoffs.
Chambers and West Charlotte are going to be fun to watch this season
Both teams that are coming off tremendous seasons last year look to be teams that you will want to follow again this season. Both Chambers and West Charlotte have some strong talent that you will be hearing about a lot and both should rack up plenty of wins this year. Chambers will have their clear leaders in 2024 Maurio Hanson and 2023 Nick Dorn, but they have plenty of depth and new players stepping up. West Charlotte's guard play is fun to watch and there will be a few names that you will want to watch out for. Put these two teams on the must-watch list this year again.
Orange is a team to keep tabs on, especially with the young talent they have
Learned a lot about Orange this weekend at the Jamboree and this is a program that I'm excited about watching more, especially with the young talent that seems to be coming through the program. 2026 Cole Cloer is a name that you may have heard already and has the potential to be a star here in the state. But we were introduced to two new names that could make a nice nucleus down the road for this program. 2026 6'8 Mason Robinson showed flashes and should be on your watch list, while 2026 Kai Wade is tough, quick guard that plays poised on the court. The future looks bright, so start taking notice now.