NCISAA 3A All-State Team: A Closer Look

<p><em>The NCISAA 3A was a very competitive league and the Championship would go to Camel Christian once again as they pulled off a nail biting win. Now that the season is complete and All-State selections have been named, lets take a look at each player and some of the things they do that separates them from the rest.</em></p> <p><strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A</span>sheville Christian Junior Tyler McKinney:</strong> Fundamentally sound player that can knock down shots as well as get to the cup. We really like how well he uses moves such as the shot fake and jab step to keep defenders guessing without using excessive dribbling, overall solid player.</p> <p><strong>Concord First Assembly Junior Garrett Hien:</strong> The 6’9 forward had a solid year averaging 12 points and 8 rebounds per contest. He’s a skilled player that can stretch the floor and we know he has plenty of upside left in his game. If he locks in and has a good spring/summer, he could see his stock rise in a nice way.</p> <p><strong>Hickory Grove Christian School Sophomore AJ Smith:</strong> The 6’4 Guard put up some monster numbers this season, averaging 25 points and 6 rebounds per game. One of the more impressive performances came against Carmel Christian where he dropped 29 points and pulled down 10 boards. With him being such a young player and having this type of impact, you have to be excited about what he can possibly be.</p> <p><strong>Concord First Assembly Sophomore Trey Benham:</strong> The lefty has a smooth jump shot and is efficient, especially from three point land. He does a nice job creating space for himself by using his solid ball handling skills to get to where he wants on the court. His numbers for the season are solid at 15 points, 4 rebounds and 2 steals per contest.</p> <p><strong>Calvary Day School Senior Jackson Gammons:</strong> The Citadel is getting a good one in Jackson, this young man can flat out score the ball and has a high IQ for the game. He works hard on his craft so there is no question that he will only continue to get better as time goes on.</p> <p><strong>High Point Christian Academy Landon Sutton:</strong> Hand down, man down, is what you have to remember when you’re matched up with this young man. If you don’t put a hand up before he gets a shot up, you’re in trouble as he is automatic from three point range.</p> <p><strong>Village Christian Academy Junior Zavian McLean:</strong> He missed part of the season due to a hand injury but would come back in the state semis to try and help his team win a state championship. He brings a level of intensity that you have to love and although he hasn’t picked up an offer yet, it’s only a matter of time.</p> <p><strong>Village Christian Academy Senior PG Travion McCray</strong>: His scoring throughout the season was just what VCA needed, when he had some teammates go down with injuries, he stepped up and made some plays. His ability to score is why the D1 programs are excited about what he can possibly be as he has multiple scholarship offers.</p> <p><strong>Fayetteville Christian Junior Jaden Scriven</strong>:One of the more improved players in the area, Scriven helped FCS turn things around this season. He’s strong, skilled, and is still adding to his game, there is plenty to like about him and schools on the D2 level should be tracking.</p> <p><strong>Carmel Christian Senior Donovan Gregory:</strong> App state will be getting a beast in Donovan Gregory, he is a player that is going to bring energy each time he steps on the floor and he knows how to win games. At 6’5 and just under 200 pounds, he has the look of a college guard, don’t be surprised to see him make some early contributions next season.</p> <p><strong>Carmel Christian Senior DeAngelo Epps:</strong> College of Charleston is getting a good one in Epps, he has good size at 6’6 and the ability to score the ball efficiently. He averaged just under 15 PPG this season on a team that was flat out loaded with D1 talent on their roster.</p> <p><strong>Carmel Christian Senior Myles Pierre:</strong> What he brings to a team can’t be measured in stats, he understands how the gam should be played and what’s needed to be done for his team to win. Unselfishness and his IQ for the game are things that will impress you about him when you watch him play.</p> <p><strong>Cape Fear Academy Junior Emmanuel Bonsu: </strong>The 6'3 Guard was one of the reasons why Cape Fear Academy was able to take home a conference tournament championship this season and why they will be competitive next year as well. On the offensive end of the floor he's gifted, keeping defenders off balance and constantly finding holes in the defense. On the defensive end of the floor, he has a chance to be a really good defender due to his size, strength and lateral quickness.</p>