by: Ethan Reece

2023 Caden Funk (Forbush)
Given Forbush is looking to replace about 50 ppg this year after graduating Peyton Compton and Cannon Doub, I saw promise in what they could build around this year with a guy like Caden. Although undersized, he clearly has a firm foundation with the IQ and awareness to put his moves to work in the lane. Multiple times he found holes in the defense and was able to quickly turn and read the defense in traffic, converting a high percentage of moves and touch shots. Along with that, he continually outworked guys to loose balls and rebounds, the basis needed for any leader to display.

2024 Ayden Wilmoth (Surry Central)
Without question, Ayden has been the best shooter I've seen this fall. He hit 9 threes in their opener week 1, and showed the same pure stroke in a tight yet commanding win. He doesn't take errant shots, knows when to attack closeouts, and has a strong build to accompany his hustle setting the tone as a leader on both ends. What I like best is that he has gotten all these good looks without really getting things run for him, he stays at the ready for every catch-and-shoot opportunity and doesn't waste dribbles trying to create a shot that isn't there.

2023 Campbell Scurry (Mt. Tabor)
When you look back at a season, most coaches will tell you how important it is to have a guy like Campbell who is willing to star in his role and work for the betterment of the team. With several key football guys out, Campbell has been a clear leader the other guys are looking to follow and is setting himself up for a key role this year. He's a low-maintenance glue guy that fills in gaps and has shown capabilities to run an offense, find his scoring within the system, and create looks for other guys well while playing within himself.

2023 David Peral (Mt. Tabor)
The checklist most coaches have in their heads when recruiting is basically a description of David. He's long, mobile with agile finishing, and true two-way capabilities to contribute big time and pile up the stats in every category. His comfort putting the ball on the floor partners well with his ability to turn and face, as well as his mindset to go dunk everything. Because of length, he walls up or stretches out on defense without reaching, and has quick enough feet with a long stride to comfortably switch out on the perimeter. Expect him to make a statement in the CPC this year.

2023 Ron Jones (Ragsdale)
People are very familiar with what Kobe Parker brings to this team, but Ron will be playing just as significant of a role returning as the only other major contributor from last year's team. He's a smart, efficient ball handler that doesn't need to dominate touches and can run the show. A steady presence looking to facilitate and defend is just what this team of younger shot makers needs to level them and control the pace. He holds two offers from Pfeiffer and Elizabeth City State, but expect more schools to take notice as the Tigers look to contend for another conference championship.