6'4 AJ Smith (Combine Academy)
While he's probably more of a guard, AJ Smith's versatility allows him to be labeled as a wing whenever necessary. He's strong, physical, and well-rounded with the ability to thrive as a role player or expand his production as needed. Smith is an exceptional defender with the blend of size, athleticism, and overall instincts to comfortably contain three positions at the high school level. He's smart and understands how to make quality reads with the ball in his hands, but can also consistently find opportunities as an off-ball piece. Smith is a great rebounder for his position, and does a nice job of pushing the break in transition. His calm, steady demeanor and approach make him among the most low-maintenance prospects in the state. Smith will carve out a useful role wherever he ends up.
6'4 Po'Boigh King (Word of God)
It's difficult to explain why most of these listed players remain uncommitted, which certainly includes Po'Boigh King. As a lethal shooter with size and the capability to pose a constant threat with or without the ball, one would naturally assume that he'd be more coveted. King possesses a quick jumper with a high release point and ability to fill it up in a hurry. He's a strong spot-up threat but also moves well without the ball and regularly hits jumpers off of movement. King highlights deep range and consistency within his overall shooting mechanics. He can create his own shot and score the ball from multiple levels, but is arguably at his best when asserting himself from beyond the arc. With shooting always at such a high premium, folks should expect King to find a home at the next level.
6'7 Cinque Lemon (Liberty Heights)
Quite possibly the most unusual recruiting situation in North Carolina, no one can properly explain why Cinque Lemon is being so overlooked. While he didn't post gaudy scoring averages, he also played for one of the most balanced, talent-laden rosters across the region. Lemon is an all-around wing prospect with size, athleticism, and no glaring weaknesses within his skillset. Those qualities alone should make him extremely desirable for a ton of Division I programs, yet schools have merely dragged their feet over the last calendar year. Lemon is great in the midrange and applies strong pressure when attacking the basket, but can also knock down jumpers from distance at a solid clip. He defends multiple positions, rebounds very well, and can create his own shot off the bounce. Lemon is too talented to get brushed aside.
6'3 Jackson Holt (Moravian Prep)
Given the ‘shooting is always at a high premium' statement above, Jackson Holt's value shouldn't require any explanation. He's quite possibly the best, most reliable three-point shooter in the state. While the numbers aren't readily accessible, one would have to imagine Holt made as many jumpers from beyond the arc as any noteworthy name. He shined as the perfect floor-spacing cog for Moravian Prep. Holt's steady, low-maintenance identity allowed him to actively assert his spot-up presence within the flow of the action. He never forces the action or looks to play outside of his comfort zone. Holt possesses picturesque shooting mechanics, doesn't take bad shots, and moves extremely well to locate open opportunities. Expect him to be a difference-maker wherever he ends up.
6'5 Jalen McDonald (Liberty Heights)
Folks tend to recognize whenever Jalen McDonald enters the building, as he usually stands out as the most explosive athlete within a twenty-mile radius. However, he's shown more than just leaping ability over the years. McDonald is also a solid shooting threat who can comfortably hit jumpers when placed in the right positions. He moves without the ball and poses a constant threat to put opponents on a poster, whether from lobs or simply running the floor in transition. McDonald is a capable defender with the ability to consistently alter shots and meet opponents above the rim for blocks. He's the type of player who could potentially reach another level upon joining the college ranks.