by: Ethan Reece
2027 Jayden Mims (PSB Raleigh)
A rare sighting when someone so athletic has such control over it at his age, Jayden was extremely balanced and coordinated and used that on his way to an impressive morning game. Contrary to a lot of young kids who think they can, Jayden can really shoot it and has no second thoughts when letting it fly, he came up big with multiple mid ranges and threes and set the tone offensively from start to finish.
2027 Jkhye Dixon (Garner Road)
There are guys who are lucky to be in the right place and right time, and guys who put themselves in good positions and I think Jkhye might just have both of those qualities because he's simply always around for the ball to be put in his hands to score. Whether it was putbacks or dishoffs, he came away with countless opportunities around the basket. Also a great athlete, his length and athleticism make him tough to handle when he gets out and runs to turn rebounds into fastbreaks.
2026 Nate Jones (Strong Center)
There's a general awe factor when watching Nate operate and break down defenders time after time, he just makes the game look extremely easy. His offensive prowess is second to none in his age group and his skillset optimizes that mindset with quick and crafty playmaking as well as an intensity and fearlessness as he attacks the basket converting finishes at will. He's consistently lit it up and exposed heavy pressure defenders since I first saw him last fall.
2026 Patrick Carter (Gboro Warriors)
The Warriors always draw a good pool of talent in the Greensboro area and this young 14u squad is no different. Led by Carter, he consistently supplies lane penetration and converts tough shots. His strength and athleticism allow him to get to his spots and maximize his scoring touch, anything from the elbow in is automatic and he drew a plethora of fouls to cash in free points at the line. He was big time in the most competitive and intense game of the day at FCDS.