2025 Rankings: New Additions Outside the Top 100 Pt. 2
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With the new rankings coming out, we’ve gotten eyes on more talent around the state, as well as guys who are making the jump to be potential college level players. Check out a half dozen more guys who have been…
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Continue ReadingWith the new rankings coming out, we’ve gotten eyes on more talent around the state, as well as guys who are making the jump to be potential college level players. Check out a half dozen more guys who have been added to our new rankings, as well as their positions in said rankings.
Jackon was a rising name to get to know all season long due to his exploits with Corvian Community, the 1A state finalists this season. As a dynamic, distributing point guard, he averaged 8.4 PPG and 6.0 APG with the ball in his hands for most of the season. He’s been very poised, calm, and effective getting his puppies organized and making sure they execute properly. Will be a big part of Corvian being able to run it back next season.
Gacic has been a breakout name for the Asheville School, winning all-conference honors and becoming their leading scorer as a new transfer into the school. He’s a hard-nosed slasher that attacks the paint and makes it difficult for opposing guards and wings to stop him with his size and awareness. His 14.4 PPG was good enough to lead his team in scoring, and I would assume he continues to be a leader next year. Someone to track closely during grassroots season this spring.
Byers made a massive jump to enter our rankings at the 113th position, which is very fair place to be after averaging over 20 PPG, 5.7 RPG, and 4.2 APG over the season. He was the lead man all year long for the Green Wave as a perimeter defender and mostly a slasher offensively, but also can knock down shots on the offensive end from the perimeter. While an upset second round loss came a bit early for Ashrbook, they should be back in force next season, led by Byers.
Newkirk is a pass-first point guard who also has some big time ability on the football field with the Dudley Panthers. 4.9 assists per game as well as 4.3 rebounds per game showed how he was a supporting cast member for Dudley, but was able to set the tempo and help his teammates get open looks and make plays for themselves. He’s an unselfish guy that should be a fun player to watch on the grassroots circuit until he begins to get ready for football season.
Howard played a big role for South Meck’s successful season as he manned the interior as an undersized forward, but someone who was physical and burly. He averaged 7.3 PPG and 5 RPG for the Sabres, and has also posted good numbers with Anthony Morrow Elite so far in travel ball. His physical, strong frame allows him to play against guys bigger than him down low, as well as play around and above the rim on offense. Breakout guy to monitor for South Meck next season.
David ended up being the breakout man in the backcourt for Charlotte Catholic this winter, averaging 13.4 PPG as the second leading scorer on the team. His ability to make shots and play tough offense and defense consistently was huge to the Cougar’s success during the year. His travel ball season should set him up for a big time senior year, and further potential jumps up our rankings.