by: Ethan Reece
2023 JJ Mata (War Eagles)
Given the nature of playing with Riptide SC in the summer, it comes as no surprise that JJ carries that same relentless tough mindset to high school ball. He's got great length at his position, a high motor to compete on both ends, and a scoring approach to make defenders wary. He constantly put guys in tough defensive positions with his constant attack, and led the defensive charge with proper rotations in passing lanes. He's one that will consistently produce while making big plays on defense, fit for any system.
2024 CJ Vaughn (WS Christian)
The open court is already a defensive liability for most teams, but when speed demon CJ Vaughn gets going there's simply no way to cut him off. He's so quick yet still remains a high level of control with the ball in making decisions to get the whole team involved. His activity level is high defensively, pressing up and attacking any ball handler, and his outside shot has really developed into a true danger to keep track of. Expect more coaches to take notice and get involved this year as he plays on the national stage with WS Christian.
2023 Eli Clark (Warriors)
It's the subtleties to how Eli plays the point that separates him from others. Success is in the details, and today Eli really stepped up in pursuing rebounds and immediately looking to make transition opportunities. There's no speeding him up, staying so composed under pressure and assessing the situation. He could actually be a much bigger scorer, as he typically sticks to finding opportunities when the defense falters, and settles for working the offense and making things click. He could step in to a lot of lineups and immediately make them better.
2023 Channing Black (Wolves)
With all the young guys West Cabarrus has on their roster, it's vital for a guy like Channing to be there and provide senior leadership. He showed he was capable, with two starters out, of taking charge to get good looks and putting the ball in the hole. He stretches the floor, with a swifter perimeter game than most guys his build, looking to find buckets in and out of sets with a driving ability that doesn't get knocked off balance due to his strength and straight forward approach. Expect him to quietly produce and be big his senior year backed by his line of consistency.