TLEW’s Takeaways “November Classic”
Dangerous Duos
Northside Christian – (Glynn Hubbard & Wesley Tubbs III)
These two guys are really dangerous. When the lights are on these two show up and play the game with a lot of energy and passion. Over the past two weekends they have played a lot of great competition. These two have fit right in.
Glynn Hubbard – He is a smooth guard who does a great job keeping the defense on their toes with his change of pace. He does a really good job controlling the tempo and leading his team. Over the past two weekends he has done an exceptional job getting into the lane and finishing with both hands.
Wesley Tubbs III – One of the best wings in the class of 2023. For a young kid he does not lack any confidence. He uses his length to his advantage. The 6’7 wing excels in transition whether its him leading the break or running the lanes. The one thing I love about him is his ability to not only create for himself but his ability to create for his teammates. Look for his recruitment to take off here soon.
Legion Academy – (Marcus Kell & Shane Blakeney)
These two are going to have great years for Coach Twuan Wilson.
Marcus Kell – He showed that he is much more than just a shooter. He scored at all three levels. He has a nice shooting stroke from the perimeter. Every shot he shoots I feel like it is going in. He also did a nice job getting to the rim and scoring over bigger defenders. He will have multiple games this year where he will score in 30’s. Big time scorer. Also, look for him to become more aggressive scoring the ball. The one thing that really stood out to me was his battle / fight on the boards against a really good Liberty Heights team.
Shane Blakeney – He is a really shifty guard. Great size and length who can really defend, He does a tremendous job getting into the lane and running the offense for his team. He also illustrated his shooting stroke this past weekend by knocking down multiple pull-up jumpers and 3’s.
Concord Academy – (Trae Benham & Logan Threatt)
Trae Benham – One of the best shooters in the state. The lefty does an exceptional job getting open and has a really quick release which allows him to get his shot off against anyone. He is a tough / gritty player who battles every time he is on the court.
Logan Threatt – He is a really crafty guard. He does a great job leading the team. Not scared to speak up on the court. Also, he is not scared of the big moment. He knocked down 2 game wining free throws in their win against Bull City Durham. He does a great job getting his teammates involved and putting them in spots where they can excel.
New Faith Christian
Robert Fields – The 6’7 wing can really fill it up. He played really this past weekend. He has a great basketball frame. He hit eight 3’s in their game verse Bull City National. He was hitting them off the bounce and catch / shoot.
Cyncier Harrison – When watching him play you have to love his toughness and passion that he brings to the game. He can absolutely fill up the scoresheet. He has great speed to get past his defenders and is really crafty when finishing around the basket. Also, he has great range and a really nice midrange pull up. Not only can he fill it up on the offensive side of the ball but he really competes on the defensive side of the ball.
The Burlington School
Jamarii Thomas – I’ve said this many times – Jamarii Thomas is a dawg! I’m so excited that he is finally getting the credit he deserves. This is a kid who I want going to battle with me every day. You never have to question his toughness and his competitive nature. The guard has done an exceptional job leading The Burlington School.
Kuluel Mading – Howard University absolutely got a steal. He is able to impact the game in so many ways with his length and athleticism. Kuluel has continued to make major improvement in his game and now is playing with tons of confidence.
Young but Special
Mikey Williams (2023) Lake Norman Christian – This was my first time being able to see Mikey Williams live. He was better than advertised on Saturday night. He made every play look so effortless. Not only did he end up with a 40 ball he does a great job seeing the court.
Trey Green (2023) Lake Norman Christian – In my opinion he is a High Major guard. He is not scared of the moment. He continues to show that he has the ability to knock down big shots in key moments of the game. One word that describes Trey Green to me is “WINNER.” He is a high-level shooter off the catch or bounce. He does all the little things to help his team win. People may question his size but no one can ever question his toughness and heart. It’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog.
Robert Dillingham (2023) Combine Academy – I love watching him play. Every time he has the ball, he has the ability to make a highlight play. He has the ability to score in a variety of ways. He is shifty off the bounce and can knock down shots from all over the floor. In my opinion he is one of the best scorers in the country for his class if not the best. To any defender guarding him, good luck.
Jaylen Curry (2023) Combine Academy – The lefty is extremely quick and shifty. He does and exceptional job getting into the lane and creating plays for others. I can’t wait to see how much he improves and the player he becomes playing for Jeff McInnis.
Maurio Hanson (2024) Vance – The 6’6 freshmen helped his team win the HoopState Championship. The big guy is extremely productive. He is able to score in the post and is capable of stepping out and knocking down shots from the perimeter. I look forward to seeing him grow and develop. He will have a big role as a freshman this year.
Be on The Lookout Players
Jackson Holt (2022) Moravian Prep – The 6’2 guard can absolutely shoot the ball. He made big shots for Moravian in both their games this weekend. This kid is extremely tough and gritty as well. If you are looking for a knockdown shooter who is going to give you everything, he has day in and day out here is your guy.
Sam Cogan (2022) Lincoln Charter – He was absolutely phenomenal this weekend. I’m not surprised because he has been putting up big numbers this whole summer and fall. The lefty is ultra-aggressive and really knows how to put pressure on the defense.
Gabe Proctor – (2022) Apex Friendship – Procter is a tough, gritty and lights out 3-point shooter. He plays with unbelievable confidence.
Breakout Seasons
Daniel Sanford 2022 (Vance) Sanford has expanded his game and has the ability to shoot the 3-Ball with efficiency. He’s tough in the paint and can now score from all three levels.
Jeremy Gregory 2022 (North Meck) Gregory may be one of the most productive players in the state. He has the ability to score 20 PPG and 15 RPG each and every outing
Davion Cunningham 2022 (North Meck) Cunningham played on North Mecklenburg’s JV team last season, but will have his moment to shine this season.