6’1 2023 Jake Hart (Strong Center)
Jake Hart finished the day with, what was in my opinion, the performance of the day, finishing with 24 points, 11 assists, 8 rebounds and 6 steals. Hart is known for his tough-nosed, team-first approach. Throughout the day, he filled the stat sheet up in every possible way. He is a high IQ guard who sets the tone on both ends of the floor and really looks to make plays for others. You have to love how hard he competes on the defensive end. Saturday, Hart showcased his ability and confidence to score the ball as well. He can knock down shots from the perimeter as well as create and make plays off the bounce. For the day, he averaged 21 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists. Hart is a college worthy prospect that will help a coach a lot of ball games at the next level.
6’5 2024 Xavier Johnson (We’ll Talk Soon)
Xavier Johnson is a newcomer to Fayetteville Academy and he has the ability to have a breakout season. He is a smooth, athletic guard who has the ability to score it in a variety of ways. Through four games at the Hoop State League, Johnson is averaging 22.5 points per game. He utilizes his explosiveness to get downhill and finish strong on the rim and through contact. In addition, he has consistently showcased the ability to knock down shots from the perimeter. More importantly, Johnson plays with a high motor and gets after it on both ends of the floor. Expect him to be a leader for Fayetteville Academy this season.
6’2 2025 Chance Gladden (Juice All-Stars Stephenson)
Chance Gladden is a young skilled guard that is ready to make a name for himself this season at Cary Academy. As a freshman, Gladden averaged 8 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists per game, but one would expect him to have a bigger and expanded role this year. What really makes him dangerous is his ability to knock down shots from the perimeter. Gladden can create for himself and others, and has the ability to play either guard position.
6’3 2023 Adam Harvey (Medieval Knights)
Last season, Adam Harvey helped lead Chatham Charter to an NCHSAA 1A State Runner-Up averaging 16 points, 7 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 3 steals per game while shooting 41% from behind the arc. Harvey will once again be a focal point on this year’s team as they have hopes of winning the state title. Harvey impacts the game with his IQ and just having a knack for the basketball. It seems like he comes up with every 50/50 ball. He plays both ends of the floor, rebounds his positions, and forces steals with his activity on the ball and in the passing lanes. In addition, he is a savvy playmaker who makes the right play for his team. Expect Harvey to have a big senior year for one of the top 1A public school teams in the state.
5’11 2023 Gabe Cerda (Chris Clemons Elite)
Gabe Cerda will be the heart and soul of this year’s Millbrook team. He is a fearless competitor who really gets after it on the defensive end. He was one of the best on-ball defenders I’ve seen in the fall league. More importantly, I love his leadership. He is constantly communicating with his teammates in a positive manner. Offensively, he keeps his head up and is always making the pitch ahead pass to open teammates in transition. He is constantly putting pressure on the defense with his ability to get into the paint and create. Simply put, he makes them go.
6’5 2024 Javier Ortiz (Wildcats Elite)
Javier Ortiz will be the X-factor this year for Jordan High School. He is an athletic wing who plays with an incredibly high motor. He impacts the game on both ends of the floor. He has the ability to defend multiple positions with his size, length and athleticism. He rebounds well. He is the guys who will make the plays that don’t always show up in the stat sheet, but they help lead to winning. Offensively, he excels getting downhill and finishing strong at the rim. As he continues to improve his perimeter shooting, it’ll make him that much more dangerous. More importantly, Ortiz is a leader. He sets the tone with both his communication and leading by example.
6’5 2023 Tanner Mikulecky (G Town)
If you’re looking for a shooter, Tanner Mikulecky needs to be on your list. He has the ability to knock down shots at a high level off of the catch. As soon as he crosses half court, he is a threat. Mikulecky has deep range and a quick release. In addition, with his size and length, he has the ability to shoot over defenders.