Optics is such a major part of the grassroots landscape. It can literally dictate whether kids deem a program valuable or relevant enough to play for. While somewhat understandable, it's also pretty unfair. The shift in player movement over the recent years has been well-documented, but folks still don't seem to understand the worth in actually doing their research. Let's be candid: the Durham Hurricanes have easily earned their spot among the top independent organizations in North Carolina. It's unclear how anyone could forget their teams from previous seasons. From Carter Collins to Trey Murphy to Josh Hall, they've guided some of the most talented players to come through the Hoopstate in recent memory. Though Covid is largely to blame for their last two summers, they still had recruitable guys like Toby Harris, Sam Hood, Cole Sinclair, and various others. The Hurricanes slight dip in popularity simply doesn't make sense, as this program is as proven as any in the state'especially among non-circuit teams. That being said, their current roster looks capable of reigniting the success of this program. Let's take a closer look at a few of their pieces'
The guard grouping of 6'1 '23 Jake Chisholm, 6'2 '23 D'dric Rogers, and 6'5 '23 Ryan MacKinnon all found ways to stand out. Chisholm is a polished scorer with the ability to create for himself or others, and apply efficient pressure from all three levels. He can find opportunities with or without the ball in his hands. Chisholm is an active cutter, reliable spot-up threat, and well-rounded player who understands how to actively alter his approach. He can also contain his assignment well, push the break, and assume initiation responsibilities as needed. Similarly, Rogers is a capable scorer who typically runs the offense as the lead guard. He scored in a variety of ways but also consistently set up others. Rogers is a useful on-ball defender and did a nice job of mixing up his offensive approach. Meanwhile, MacKinnon is definitely the best shooter on the team. While he's more than just a standstill threat, he proved capable of really filling it up from beyond the arc. MacKinnon displays deep range and excellent mechanics, which forces opponents to stay attached. He also makes smart passes and understands how to attack closeouts, pull-up from midrange, or finish around the basket. MacKinnon possesses great positional size and embraces his identity very well.
Given their status as year-round teammates, no one should be surprised to see the complementary duo of 6'8 '23 Max Frazier and 6'9 '23 Kenan Parrish continuing to excel on the court together. Starting with Frazier, who possesses unbelievable length and the type of frame that only continues to get more and more appealing with time. Between finishing, rebounding, and blocking shots, he's already a clear problem for opponents. He's athletic, runs the floor hard in transition, and displays a physical nature on both ends of the floor. Frazier does a great job of emphasizing his strengths and simplifying his two-way approach within the bigger picture. On the other hand, Parrish is a strong, mobile post prospect with touch and a low-maintenance identity on both ends of the floor. He's a solid scorer from the block, but often finds second-chance points through his presence on the glass. Parrish also displays interior toughness and workable shooting mechanics. Both guys are definitely scholarship-worthy prospects who should only get better over the foreseeable future.
Although some have overlooked the storied history of this program, the Hurricanes have begun showing signs of revitalization with their current squad. Expect college coaches to lay groundwork with this group throughout the coming months. This program has earned every single shred of status and reputation, and should be regarded in the highest respect amongst independent programs within North Carolina.