A Battle Between Charlotte and Greensboro
Arguably one of the most intriguing games on this slate, Grimsley travels down to Charlotte to face off against Rocky River. Coach Corbett has been a true model of consistency since returning to the Whirlies in 2019-20. Although largely overlooked, it’s worth noting that Corbett seemingly exceeds expectations with any collection of players. He’s gone 101-26 over the last five seasons. Now, their fairly young group continues to turn heads. Freshman Isaiah Whitsett transferred and began immediately producing as a scorer—leading the team at 13.9 PPG. Guys like Henry Trent, Sherod White, and Brodie Atkins have carried a meaningful burden before the return of several football players. Adding pieces like Faizon Brandon, Kaden Catoe, Ryan Debow, David Howerton, and several others provides this group with real depth across the board. Meanwhile, Rocky River (7-9) is entering a brutal stretch of their schedule after losing two of the last three games. They’ll play West Mecklenburg tonight followed by East Mecklenburg, Grimsley, Charlotte Catholic, Butler, Providence, Independence, and Garinger. This veteran-laden roster is led by Jayden Ross and his 19.7 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.5 APG, and 2.3 SPG. Other seniors like Jacary Noble and Brian Carr also stand out as major difference-makers. Additionally, Jordan Walton offers terrific balance between scoring and playmaking from the point guard position. This should be a pivotal game for both sides.
Notable Independent Programs Set to Battle
Despite being at two completely different stages in their existence, there’s still a lot of excitement surrounding the contest between Charlotte Performance Institute and 1 of 1 Academy. Although the Coyotes (4-11) haven’t won a ton of games, it’s worth noting that they have played a legitimately brutal schedule thus far. Jordan King has been a productive focal point while guys like Deontae Pryor, Christian McNeil, Ramir Goins, and Carson Wilson have carved out meaningful roles. JJ Sati-Grier has shown a lot of appeal as a freshman and Josiah Montgomery has been a difference-maker when healthy. On the other side, 1 of 1 Academy (19-3) is genuinely loaded with talent and clearly one of the top teams in the state. Between LJ Rush, Jack Sorrell, Gevonte Ware, Frank Oguche, Jeremiah Jackson, Isaiah Williams, Jonas Agyeman, Bryson Cowan, and several others, they have something for all types of college coaches. Expect an entertaining contest given the abundance of prospects from both teams.
Contending Teams Face Off
It should be pretty easy to get excited about two state-championship contenders in Corvian Community (8-5) and Seventy-First (8-3). After a rough start to the season and losing their first four games, the Cardinals have rapidly turned things around. While it goes without saying, sophomore RJ Moore is having an insanely productive season as one of the state’s most polished scorers. He’s also shown ability as a rebounder, playmaker, and defender. Malachi McCutcheon is another leader whose versatile, all-around game and unselfish approach make him a real asset on both ends of the floor. Guys like AJ Jackson, Josiah Rucks, Don Quarles, Demarkus Milton, and Mike Olsen each make an impact within their respective roles. Meanwhile, it should come as no surprise that the Falcons have maintained their status as one of the most consistently successful teams in North Carolina. Outside of sophomore Javon Foster, this is a veteran-led roster with college prospects like Jacquez Foster, Malachi Isaac, Julian Wilkerson, and several others. This game should be an absolute battle.