Over the past week, Coach Cleo Hill and the Winston-Salem State Rams received two massive commitments in CJ Alston and Isaiah Sutherland. Before we taking a closer look at each of their incoming pieces, it’s worth noting that 14 of the Rams 17 players are from North or South Carolina. The roster is littered with familiar faces, and both of these new guys should be seamless additions to the mix. Let’s see what each guy brings to the table…
Starting with Alston, who has easily been among the most consistent players in the state throughout the last calendar year. He’s not loud or flashy, but knows how to stand out as an extremely reliable piece in every type of setting. Alston can run an offense or play alongside another primary ball-handler, and is able to comfortably produce in both situations. Whether in transition or the half-court structure, he applies excellent pressure as a penetrating threat. Alston is a quality perimeter shooter who understands how to take what the defense is giving him, yet also finishes above the rim and very well through contact. On the other end, he’s a terrific point-of-attack defender with the necessary blend of IQ, strength, and toughness to cause problems for opponents. Add in his motor, rebounding, steady demeanor, and overall physicality, and Alston should be a perfect fit with this group.
Meanwhile, netting Sutherland provides this roster with an entirely new dynamic. He’s a legit big man with incredible physical tools and tons of upside still remaining. At 6-foot-9, his length, fluidity, and explosiveness automatically give him an advantage over the majority of interior players. Sutherland’s presence as a rebounder and rim-protector should allow him to carve out a meaningful role sooner than later. He’s shown the ability to space the floor, but is clearly at his best as a finisher and lob threat around the basket. There’s a lot of appeal in someone who knows their strengths and doesn’t necessarily require the ball to make an impact. Sutherland fits that notion.
As stated earlier, these commitments shouldn’t come as a surprise given the sheer number of guys from the Carolinas. However, it’s still impressive to watch the Rams patiently wait throughout the summer and high school season, and still walk away with a duo of guys who are talented and fit their identity. Expect Alston and Sutherland to have productive careers at Winston-Salem State.
