Over the last five years or so, various sports-based programs and academies have become increasingly popular landing spots for transfers. While there are many examples throughout the region, but one could argue Combine Academy and Moravian Prep are the two main representatives in North Carolina. However, a new challenger has approached in Good Better Best Academy. Could they be the next major program to emerge as a national powerhouse' Well, between their talent, coaching staff (Rasheed Wallace, Pat Cole, Julion Ware, Chezere Brigs, and Antwan Robinson), and overall structure, it’s difficult to envision a scenario where this group isn’t a priority for all levels of college coaches. Based on all the player movement thus far, it would appear that various potential transfers could be on the horizon. Until then, we will take a closer look at their current roster…
The overall process of becoming a noteworthy program is certainly easier with an elite-level prospect (like Josh Hall at Moravian or Robert Dillingham/Jalen Hood-Schifino at Combine), and 6’10 ’23 Tichyque Musaka looks quite prepared to fill that void for the Eagles. Although high-major programs have laid serious groundwork over the last few years, traction has slowed for no real reason. The fact is Musaka should basically have the choice of further his education and playing career at this point. Sure, his last two offers were Illinois and Virginia Tech, but the big man should be a priority throughout the entire country. At 6-foot-10, Musaka’s athleticism, rebounding and defensive instincts make him an absolute nightmare for opposing teams. He’s a strong finisher, capable perimeter shooter, and phenomenal defensive anchor with ridiculous fluidity for his size. Following his reclassification, Musaka should be conservatively regarded as a top-three prospect in North Carolina’s Class of 2023.
We’ve seen some incredible teams collapse due to a lack of guard play, but that should be preventable with 6’2 ’23 Keyon Webb at the helm. The confidence folks should have surrounding his ability to run a team lies directly through his success as the primary creator for Sheed Wallace Select. Webb is a smart, steady, poised floor general with vision and an absolutely lethal midrange pull-up. That being said, he’s shown the ability to knock down three-pointers at a high clip or attack the basket and make decisive decisions with the ball in his hands. Webb is also a tough, reliable defender with a high motor and useful instincts for forcing turnovers. Various types of scholarship-level programs should be heavily involved going forward.
Momentum is a major component for players, as entering the high school season with traction typically pays dividends in the form of scholarships. Between 6’5 ’22 Lureon Walker and 6’7 ’22 Treyvon Byrd, both guys have done a tremendous job of boosting their respective stocks throughout the current summer season. Despite being relatively unknown prior to March, Walker has absolutely burst onto the scene with one dominant showing after another for NC Wildcats. His name rapidly gained traction around the state and region, and Walker parlayed his incredible production into this newfound opportunity. Given his size, skill, athleticism, open-court ability, and understanding of how to score from anywhere on the floor, Walker should have no issue finding ways to make an impact. Meanwhile, Byrd just recently earned an offer from UNCW. He’s been noted as a long, wiry, high-flying athlete for quite a while, but has also shown progression in various other areas. Byrd consistently looks to get downhill and attack the basket, but can also set up others or knock down a perimeter jumper if necessary. Both guys should only continue to turn heads.
Easily the most intriguing of their newcomers, 6’5 ’23 Jakel Powell and 6’8 ’23 Asa White could really benefit from this situation. Both guys already came from favorable circumstances, but they each seem prepared to take the next step. After displaying incredible flashes as a freshman and some slight struggles as a sophomore, Powell ultimately controls his own destiny. Between his physical tools and smooth skillset, the appeal is still extremely apparent. Powell should only benefit from the new, eat or be eaten structure. The same exact notion applies to White, who has the talent and ability to unlock a ton of capabilities over the next few years—especially after reclassifying. The fluid 6-foot-8 forward moves extremely well and displays flashes of nice balance between skill and athleticism. Although already productive, folks should prepare to see White take another step forward sooner than later.
Given everything, folks should not be surprised or caught off-guard when this squad rapidly emerges as one of the top teams in the state. This is really only the start of their talent accumulation process. Ty Cox has done a tremendous job in getting things started as the program director and women’s coach, and the aforementioned men’s staff should only further their phenomenal success. Expect to see Good Better Best Academy going toe-to-toe with any team in the country.