Stock Risers – NC 2021 Guards
AJ Smith – 6’3” | Hickory Grove Christian / Team Charlotte | Rank (9)
It was a complete travesty on my behalf that this kid was previously left off the state rankings. Probably one of the biggest stock risers across the board. Smith is a 6’3” compact combo guard who excels as a finisher that can also knock down shots consistently. Possesses good passing instincts and a high motor. Will get into you defensively and gives older elite prospects a ton of trouble. Potential to become a household name. Excellent combo guard prospect.
KJ Garrett – 6’1” | High Point Christian / Team Felton | Rank (24)
KJ Garrett is one of the most intriguing players in the top 25 of the state rankings. He will have a chance to skyrocket up the rankings this season with his budding athleticism and change of scenery. Has some of the best change of pace moves off the dribble in the sophomore class. Beginning to throw down some big dunks in games. Really hard to contain at the highest level and great court vision. Excellent kid as well. Stock is rising rapidly.
Jalen Hinton – 5’10” | Butler / Team Charlotte | Rank (44)
On the smaller side, but it doesn’t matter. Kid fills it up and in a hurry. Extremely quick off the dribble. Uses his quickness to set up his pull up shot from long-range and distributes the ball well. Must repeat that he’s marksman from long range and has a great overall feel for the game. Could surprise many across the state this year at Butler with his scoring prowess.
Kadyn Dawkins – 5’8” | Eastern Guilford / Carolina Cobras | Rank (67)
In addition to Dawkins ability to see the floor & come up with steals, he’s one of the most confident shooters from deep in his class. Shoots it with a great release from 25’ and beyond at times. Drops off some beautiful passes once he’s penetrated the gaps of the defense. Never gives up on plays either. Shows all the signs early of really good college point guard.
Detorian Brown – 5’11” | Jones Senior / Nation Warriors | Rank (82)
A newcomer to the rankings and probably one of the more under the radar names for now, Brown is a budding athlete who is wired to score. Saw limited action as a freshman but could be primed for a strong sophomore season. He possesses a knack for the ball offensively and always finds himself in the right spot to get a high percentage shot while being able to knock it down from deep. Potentially one of the better prospects from his area in recent memory. Very intriguing.