6’6 Jeff Clark (NC Spartans)
Given his continued production into the travel ball season, it’s shocking Clark hasn’t captured the attention of more college coaches. He’s a long, mobile wing/forward who simply finds ways to impact a game. Clark finishes, rebounds at a constant rate, and defends multiple positions. He’s a useful shooter and threat off the bounce. Clark utilizes his length and motor really well to outwork opponents for extra opportunities. There’s no doubting his status as a college player, so it’ll be interesting to see what schools get involved going forward.
6’5 Santana Lynch (NLPB)
Quite possibly the most perplexing recruiting situation in the state, it’s almost as if the rest of the masses didn’t just watch Lynch enjoy a breakout season at Lake Norman. At 6-foot-5 with IQ, athleticism, and the ability to legitimately affect all facets of the game, his lack of next-level opportunities is strange. Lynch is a natural leader who plays with a high motor and extremely calm demeanor. He consistently rebounds, shuts down opponents defensively, and is adaptable to whatever his team needs on offense. Lynch will be a great piece wherever he ends up.
6’7 Taky Prosper (Midstate Magic)
Undoubtedly the most improved player on this list, it feels like more coaches need to actually see Prosper and the strides he’s made over the last calendar year. The raw athleticism and flashes of skill have transitioned into real ability for the 6-foot-7 forward. For starters, Prosper is a physical specimen with strength, fluidity, and long arms. He plays with a nonstop motor, which allows him to wreak havoc as a rebounder and defender. Prosper excels in transition but has gotten visibly more comfortable as a shooter, passer, and ball-handler. He’s definitely worthy of attention.
6’4 Brendan Bailey (NLPB)
After being a regular standout last summer, Bailey returns to this group with even more ability. It doesn’t take long to appreciate his game as a tough, rugged, versatile forward with toughness and a high motor. Bailey scores from all levels, yet finds ways to constantly outwork opponents for easy opportunities. He’s a well-rounded player who rebounds at a high volume, defends with phenomenal energy, and does a little bit of everything offensively. His unselfishness, adaptability, and overall mentality make him the type of player every coach should want on their team.
6’7 Trey Manhertz (Grassroots)
Rounding out this group, Manhertz clearly has the makings of a college player. He’s a big, mobile forward with a strong frame and quality level of skill. Over the weekend, Manhertz found success through playing hard, posing mismatches, and producing within the flow of the team structure. He rebounds well and provides consistent energy on both ends of the floor. Manhertz also highlighted flashes of versatility. It’s definitely surprising that he doesn’t have more action within his recruitment, as he would be an ideal fit at a variety of different programs.