North Carolina’s Class of 2023 has as much star-power and raw talent as any freshman class within recent memory. Guys like Treymane Parker, Addison Archer, Caleb Foster, and countless others came in and immediately stood out as leaders. Others like Jaydon Young, Robert Dillingham, and Mekhi Grant are incredibly talented and likely to take on more responsibility this season. There are at least ten to twenty more names worthy of mentioning for one reason or another, but Will Otto is probably the most low-key and unassuming prospect across this class.
His under-the-radar status is probably appropriate at this point in time, considering Broughton’s record (2-22) and overall struggles last season. However, there should be brewing optimism about the crafty, smooth guard prospect andthe Capital’s direction going forward. Whether true or not, it appeared although Otto naturally emerged as a leader and decision-maker for this group. His IQ is through the roof, which allows him to manage the game with poise, purpose, and dexterity. He sees the game ahead of others and can pick apart defenses with his attention to detail. Despite being a sharp and willing passer, Otto regularly stands out as an efficient scoring option from all areas on the floor. He displays toughness and a great change of pace when attacking the basket, but is arguably even better from midrange and beyond the arc. Otto creates for himself and others, which allows him to actively toggle between being an off-ball threat and playing with the ball in his hands.
The Broughton and Garner Road building block has the ability, mentality, and understanding of how to eventually get himself to the next level. Fortunately, Otto will have some help along the way. Julien King was one of the Capital’s most productive players last season, and should remain enticing for scholarship-level coaches throughout these next two years. Smedes York has also shown some flashes but will need to keep adding strength in order to maximize his presence with this group. The team should steadily get better, especially with these pieces in place and Otto at the helm.