Bully Ball in the 336: Best Bigs in Central N.C.
In this article:
The Greensboro/Elon/Burlington region houses big-time programs and even bigger prospects. Literally. The 336 is home to some big-time bigs who have a unique skill set and even more untapped potential. Let’s look at some of the most intriguing prospects in…
Access all of Prep Hoops
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingThe Greensboro/Elon/Burlington region houses big-time programs and even bigger prospects. Literally. The 336 is home to some big-time bigs who have a unique skill set and even more untapped potential. Let’s look at some of the most intriguing prospects in the 336.
Ty Outlaw’s first season as a transfer with The Burlington School ended just as many imagined; with an NCISAA-2A state championship. And number 0 had a lot to do with the success of this ball club in 2022-2023. At 6’8″, Outlaw’s size accounts for some big-time plays on both ends of the floor. One of the most athletic bigs in the state. This guy makes plays under the rim that are comparable to some of the most talented forwards in all of college basketball. Has a great presence in the high post. Capable of knocking down a turnaround jump shot on a consistent basis. Flawlessly executes a high pick and roll. Can really create off the dribble. One of the surprising pieces to Outlaw’s game is his handle. This attributes to some easy buckets from the lane and out in transition. A better shooter than a ton of people gives him credit for someone his size. His length and athleticism on defense account for a ton of contested shots and grown-man rebounds that help push the pace on the other end of the floor. Keep an eye out for Ty Outlaw and this Burlington School squad to make a serious attempt to run it back in 2023-2024.
As a role player on a state-champion Greensboro Day squad, sophomore Addison Newkirk Addison Newkirk 6’6″ | SF Greensboro Day | 2025 State NC did not have the opportunity to take command of the offense for the Bengals in 2022-2023. That doesn’t mean the kid can’t play. And with some key departures leaving the program, Newkirk will have that opportunity. Newkirk’s approach to 2022-2023 showed a ton of maturity for a really talented up-and-coming prospect. His commitment to the process of Bengal Basketball and his trust in the coaching staff will pay off next season when he is one of this team’s go-to bucket-getters. Although listed as 6’3″, I would argue this guy is pushing 6’5″. And that’s a big deal because this kid is one of the best shooters I’ve seen all season. Has proven he can knock down big-time shots from the perimeter and shoots exceptionally well from three. Has a high release that accounts for an almost impossible-to-defend step-back three. Knows how to get to his spots. Great court vision and basketball I.Q. Really tough defender. Plays an in-your-face, scrappy style of defense that is one of the staples of this Greensboro Day program. Expect Newkirk to take a leap as he gets comfortable in his new role as one of the primary scorers in his junior season at Greensboro Day.
Alphonso Hopkins
Alphonso Hopkins
Sticking with Greensboro Day for a second, another up-and-coming prospect for the Bengals is junior small forward Alphonso Hopkins. While Hopkins did not see a ton of minutes in 2023-2024, there’s an opportunity for this guy to earn his spot in the Greensboro Day rotation. What standouts most about his game is his commitment on the defensive end of the floor. Has an active hand in the passing lane that accounts for a ton of easy steals in transition. Can step up and guard 1-5 efficiently off switches. Moves well for a bigger guy. Hopkins has an improving jump shoot that is at a point where defenders have to play him honestly. Has a really quick step which allows him to explode to the rim off a pump fake. With a Greensboro Day squad that has a couple of key departures and a couple of guys coming back, it’ll be fascinating to see the rotation in 2023-2024, but expect Hopkins to contribute meaningful minutes when his number is called.
Bryce Davis
Bryce Davis
This dual sport athlete out of Grimsley High School in Greensboro, N.C. is one the best defenders in the region. At 6’5″, 235 lbs, Bryce Davis’ size is for the most part unmatched by any opposing defender. What makes Davis such an intriguing basketball prospect is how well he moves for someone with his build. His footwork underneath the basket is parallel to Oscar Tshiebwe from the University of Kentucky. Crafty at the rim. Strong finisher. Excellent lateral quickness which makes him an elite defender. Can guard 1-5 with ease on any given play. Plays aggressive defense without giving up fouls. Sky’s the limit for Davis. As only a sophomore, this guy has two years of high school basketball left to make a name for himself and attract the attention of big-time programs across N.C. and the rest of the country. On an already stacked Grimsley squad that went 25-5 this season and is looking to take the next step, expect Bryce Davis to lead the charge in 2023-2024.
Trace Moffitt
Trace Moffitt
This Junior small forward out of Southeast Guilford in Greensboro, N.C., has the potential to rise significantly in the rankings this summer. At 6’5″. Trace Moffitt is one of the most elite three-point shooting bigs in the region. Shoots the ball consistently from everywhere on the floor. Great spot-up shooter. Can create off-screens. Quick release that makes it hard for defenders to contend. Great first step. Attacks the rim with a purpose. Makes big-time finishes. Excellent from the foul line. Plays really solid man defense. Always makes the extra play. Strong rebounder for an offensive-minded player. What stands out most with Moffitt is his leadership on the floor and his willingness to be coached from the sideline. The type of kid you want leading the break and coaches want to teach. With a Southeast squad on the brink of a 20-win season last year, expect Trace Moffitt and the Falcons to be right in the mix come 2023-2024.