by: Ethan Reece
2024 Noah Muteb (CC Elite)
It’s always an impressive display of basketball IQ and work ethic when smaller teams are able to win at a high level. Being their technical biggest guy, Noah has demonstrated on multiple occasions he will outwork and outsmart bigger guys. He’s a versatile forward with good footwork, handle and overall feel to the game. And with running a 5-out offense as well as in transition, he’s shown he can actually be a dangerous lead distributor and decision-maker with the ball in his hands.
2024 Camden Edmonds (NC Spartans)
His success and skill this spring has been well noted, and he fully demonstrated why again today. As a guard longer than most he lines up against, he uses his frame well and knows how to stay involved within the flow of action at all times. Particularly today, his off ball motion put him in position for easy looks and he grabbed close to 10 rebounds to reach a double-double in an impressive win. After an already impressive first two years at West Stokes, look for him to be a big name in the greater Triad area the next two.
2025 Jaden Spencer (NC Heels)
When I tell you his athleticism surprised me, I mean that in the most exciting way. We’re talking about a 5’7 freshman that regularly finished and grabbed rebounds above the rim. He was supremely bouncy with a lot of energy and hustle to his game where he played role of primary initiator. He was a great facilitator that sliced up the defense with drives and passes, completing plays with a genuine swagger and craft.
2024 Rafik Khismatov (Strong Center)
We regularly see bigs display an inside out game, but rarely is it done with such patience and understanding as with Rafik. He never just makes a move to make it, there’s always a clear face up and breakdown of the move ahead of time. And another differing factor to separate his game from other bigs is his embracive nature to the high post role, knocking down elbow jumpers instead of forcing threes outside of his comfort.
2024 Maddox Watson (Hoop Dreams)
At 6’4 he showcases a controlled guard game that is effective at his own pace. In a tale of two halves, he knocked down 4 threes in the first, using his frame to rise up as guys closed out. He finished with 6 threes, but the second half he adapted as the defense learned and readily put the ball on the floor to finish around the lane. They made a big comeback to win in OT, and his strong play through the majority of the game was the only reason they were in position to finally make that late run.
2025 Kam McKnight (NC Spartans)
When leading a team, you have to be able to take the ball and go get a bucket when your team needs it. Kam has the ability to do that, actively seeking out drives and pullups but playing with such poise and control of pace while doing it. He knows how to run the show and execute to get his looks in sets while also having the creativity to play off script and adapt when needed. He’ll be able to provide quality minutes when stepping up next year on a North Surry team that returns a strong core from their final four run this year.