Login Subscribe
    • Players/Parents
    • College Coaches
  • Choose Your State Middle School Coverage
    Alabama
    Arizona
    Arkansas
    California
    Colorado
    Dakotas
    Delaware
    Florida
    Georgia
    Idaho
    Illinois
    Indiana
    Iowa
    Kansas
    Kentucky
    Louisiana
    Maryland
    Michigan
    Minnesota
    Missouri
    Nebraska
    Nevada
    New England
    New Jersey
    New Mexico
    New York
    North Carolina
    Ohio
    Oklahoma
    Oregon
    Pennsylvania
    South Carolina
    Tennessee
    Texas
    Utah
    Virginia
    Washington
    West Virginia
    Wisconsin
  • Loading...
  • Tournaments
    • Prep Hoops Prep Hoops
    • Prep Hoops Next Prep Hoops Next
    Showcases
    • Freshman Showcase Freshman Showcase
    • Sophomore ID Camp Sophomore ID Camp
    • The Expo The Expo
    About Our Events
  • Prep Hoops for
    • Players
    • Parents
    • Club Coaches
    • High School Coaches
    • College Coaches
    • Fans
    View All Features
    • Player Profiles Build your own profile and join the Prep Hoops database.
    • Coverage Access Prep Hoops articles year-round without ads.
    • Rankings See how players stack up in each state.
    • Coach Views Get notified when a college coach views your profile.
    • Profile Trends Track your Player Profile views over time.
    • Recruiting Tasks Stay on-track in the recruiting process.
    • Recruiting Dashboard All your recruiting tools in a single place.
    • College Match Recommends colleges that match with your profile.
    • Coach Contacts Contact any program in the country.
    • Recruiting Tips Become an expert on the recruiting process.
    • Event Credits Save $25 on all Prep Hoops showcases.
    • College Email Templates Send customized emails directly to college coaches.
    • How We Rank
    • Reviews
  • North Carolina
  • Rankings
    • How We Rank

    • Archived Rankings

    • 2026 Rankings

    • 2027 Rankings

    • 2028 Rankings

  • Club Programs
  • Player Database
  • Team Rankings
  • Scouts
  • Home
  • Coverage
      Choose Your State Middle School Coverage
      Alabama
      Arizona
      Arkansas
      California
      Colorado
      Dakotas
      Delaware
      Florida
      Georgia
      Idaho
      Illinois
      Indiana
      Iowa
      Kansas
      Kentucky
      Louisiana
      Maryland
      Michigan
      Minnesota
      Missouri
      Nebraska
      Nevada
      New England
      New Jersey
      New Mexico
      New York
      North Carolina
      Ohio
      Oklahoma
      Oregon
      Pennsylvania
      South Carolina
      Tennessee
      Texas
      Utah
      Virginia
      Washington
      West Virginia
      Wisconsin
  • Events
      Tournaments
      • Prep Hoops Prep Hoops
      • Prep Hoops Next Prep Hoops Next
      Showcases
      • Freshman Showcase Freshman Showcase
      • Sophomore ID Camp Sophomore ID Camp
      • The Expo The Expo
      About Our Events
  • Rankings
      Loading...
  • Features
      Prep Hoops for
      • Players
      • Parents
      • Club Coaches
      • High School Coaches
      • College Coaches
      • Fans
      View All Features
      • Player Profiles Build your own profile and join the Prep Hoops database.
      • Coverage Access Prep Hoops articles year-round without ads.
      • Rankings See how players stack up in each state.
      • Coach Views Get notified when a college coach views your profile.
      • Profile Trends Track your Player Profile views over time.
      • Recruiting Tasks Stay on-track in the recruiting process.
      • Recruiting Dashboard All your recruiting tools in a single place.
      • College Match Recommends colleges that match with your profile.
      • Coach Contacts Contact any program in the country.
      • Recruiting Tips Become an expert on the recruiting process.
      • Event Credits Save $25 on all Prep Hoops showcases.
      • College Email Templates Send customized emails directly to college coaches.
  • About Us
      • How We Rank
      • Reviews
  • Support
Login Subscribe

Underclassmen Centers who should be on your radar

Underclassmen Centers who should be on your radar
Cameron Rivers
Cameron Rivers
February 14, 2025 @ 10:01 AM
Facebook
X (Formerly Twitter)

In this article:

Charles Pur
Charles Pur 6'9" | C | 2027
NC
William Stevens
William Stevens 6'10" | C | 2026
NC
Jones Lay
Jones Lay 7'0" | C | 2026
NC
Chase Smith
Chase Smith 6'8" | C | 2028
NC
Tyson Thompson
Tyson Thompson 6'10" | C | 2027
NC
<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This report highlights some of the most promising underclassmen centers, emphasizing their ability to make a significant impact on the court. Each player brings a unique combination of size, skill, and athleticism, with the ability to dominate both ends of the floor. From rim protection to offensive versatility, these young centers are developing the tools to become future stars at the next level.<br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2287864"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67acf9d21ada5"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Charles Pur is a versatile, dynamic player with elite footwork and a complete offensive game. His post moves, including smooth drop steps and fadeaways, make him a constant threat in the paint. Pur possesses soft, reliable hands, which allow him to finish around the rim with ease. His movement on the court is fluid and graceful, like a gazelle, enabling him to glide past defenders. On the defensive end, Pur uses his impressive length and wingspan to be a disruptive force, effectively protecting the rim. Offensively, Sur attacks the basket with explosive finishe. Additionally, he is a good shooter who can stretch the floor with his three-point shooting. His ball-handling is strong, as he can take the ball coast to coast. A true number one scoring option, Pur combines finesse with power. He is the complete package on both ends of the floor.<br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://youtu.be/ZBMcoaKTneY?si=v0qy02qbPYWsTnuF","type":"video","providerNameSlug":"youtube","responsive":true,"className":"wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://youtu.be/ZBMcoaKTneY?si=v0qy02qbPYWsTnuF </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2055540"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67ad098fe9ade"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Stevens is a highly skilled big man with great size and length. A dominant presence on both ends of the floor. On defense, Stevens is a game changer , using his defensive instincts, athleticism, and size to protect the rim. Stevens does a great job of consistently staying vertical to avoid fouls while blocking or altering shots. Stevens excels in the pick-and-roll. He makes smart decisions as a short roller, and when he gets the ball rolling to the basket, he is going to finish. On the block, he is a force with his back to the basket, capable of punishing defenders. His hustle and quick feet allow him to stay active on both sides of the floor. Stevens also has the ability to stretch the defense with his 3-point shooting, keeping defenders honest. Stevens is a solid passer, that makes the right play.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wy4hUHQ01Io","type":"video","providerNameSlug":"youtube","responsive":true,"className":"wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wy4hUHQ01Io </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1280937"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67ad098fe9b7e"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Thompson is an incredibly strong and physical player, using his muscle to dominate in the paint. In addition, his strength allows him to overpower defenders both offensively and defensively, whether he is finishing through contact at the rim or locking down opponents on defense. Moreover, Thompson is an elite shot blocker, utilizing his athleticism and timing to protect the rim effectively. He's also a brick wall as a screener, setting powerful picks that create space for his teammates. His explosive leaping ability combined with his strength makes him a constant threat to finish with dunks. Furthermore, Thompson has a reliable jumper, great hands in the dunker spot, and a solid post game, capable of scoring over either shoulder. Not only is he an effective scorer, but he also makes smart passes when facing double teams, showing court awareness. As a rebounder, Thompson is aggressive and positions himself well.<br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://youtu.be/BJR1qEGds4g?si=Xf3SR2Ep-TNxAv0z","type":"video","providerNameSlug":"youtube","responsive":true,"className":"wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://youtu.be/BJR1qEGds4g?si=Xf3SR2Ep-TNxAv0z </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2194636"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67ad098fe9bd4"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A dominant force in the paint with remarkable physicality, size, and strength. He's a force to be reckoned with around the basket, using his power to overpower defenders and finish through contact. Additionally, as a rebounder, Smith is a beast on both ends, consistently securing boards with ferocity. His footwork in the post is equally impressive, allowing him to pivot smoothly and score with his back to the basket. Furthermore, Smith displays excellent court awareness, making him a constant threat in the low block. His blend of strength, skill, and athleticism makes him a matchup nightmare for opponents. With his aggressive inside game and relentless work ethic, he is undeniably a pivotal presence in the paint, contributing significantly on both offense and defense.<br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1672057"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67ad098fe9c51"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A true 7-footer with a rare combination of mobility and strength that sets him apart. He's highly effective at stretching the floor, capable of knocking down midrange shots and even hitting from beyond the arc, making him a versatile offensive threat. Lay's exceptional basketball IQ allows him to read the game well, make smart decisions, and be an effective playmaker when needed. Lay is a high-level defender, using his length and agility to guard multiple positions and protect the rim. His ability to move fluidly despite his size makes him a unique presence both offensively and defensively. Lay's skill set, combined with his basketball awareness and size, gives him significant upside. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->

This report highlights some of the most promising underclassmen centers, emphasizing their ability to make a significant impact on the court. Each player brings a unique combination of size, skill, and athleticism, with the ability to dominate both ends of the floor. From rim protection to offensive versatility, these young centers are developing the tools to become future stars at the next level.

Charles Pur

Charles Pur

NC
C
HEIGHT 6'9"
POS C
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Charles
Pur C
Class
2027
Height
6'9"
HS
The Burlington School
|
NC
Underclassmen Centers who should be on your radar
Charles Pur is a versatile, dynamic player with elite footwork and a complete offensive game. His post moves,...
Written by Cameron Rivers
Read more at PrepHoops.com
Prep Hoops

Charles Pur

Twitter
State: North Carolina
School: The Burlington School
Club: Team CP3
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

William Stevens

William Stevens

NC
C
HEIGHT 6'10"
POS C
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
William
Stevens C
Class
2026
Height
6'10"
HS
Davidson Day
|
NC
Underclassmen Centers who should be on your radar
Stevens is a highly skilled big man with great size and length. A dominant presence on both ends...
Written by Cameron Rivers
Read more at PrepHoops.com
Prep Hoops

William Stevens

Twitter
State: North Carolina
School: Davidson Day
Club: Upward Stars 3SSB
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Tyson Thompson

Tyson Thompson

NC
C
HEIGHT 6'10"
POS C
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Tyson
Thompson C
Class
2027
Height
6'10"
HS
Wesleyan Christian Academy
|
NC
Underclassmen Centers who should be on your radar
Thompson is an incredibly strong and physical player, using his muscle to dominate in the paint. In addition,...
Written by Cameron Rivers
Read more at PrepHoops.com
Prep Hoops

Tyson Thompson

Twitter
State: North Carolina
School: Wesleyan Christian Academy
Club: Team United
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Chase Smith

Chase Smith

NC
C
HEIGHT 6'8"
POS C
CLASS 2028
View Player
​
Chase
Smith C
Class
2028
Height
6'8"
HS
Queen's Grant
|
NC
Underclassmen Centers who should be on your radar
A dominant force in the paint with remarkable physicality, size, and strength. He’s a force to be reckoned...
Written by Cameron Rivers
Read more at PrepHoops.com
Prep Hoops

Chase Smith

State: North Carolina
School: Queen's Grant
Club: Team United
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Jones Lay

Jones Lay

NC
C
HEIGHT 7'0"
POS C
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Jones
Lay C
Class
2026
Height
7'0"
HS
Moravian Prep / YNG Dreamerz Overtime Elite
|
NC
Underclassmen Centers who should be on your radar
A true 7-footer with a rare combination of mobility and strength that sets him apart. He’s highly effective...
Written by Cameron Rivers
Read more at PrepHoops.com
Prep Hoops

Jones Lay

Twitter
State: North Carolina
School: Moravian Prep / YNG Dreamerz Overtime Elite
Club: Garner Road
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Prep Hoops

Access all of Prep Hoops

Continue reading this article and more.

Continue Reading
Already a subscriber? Log in

Rankings

328 Players Ranked

  • 1
    Dionte Neal

    Dionte Neal

    Reidsville

  • 2
    Kendre Harrison

    Kendre Harrison

    Reidsville

    Oregon
  • 3
    Tyler Jones

    Tyler Jones

    Christ School

  • 4
    William Stevens

    William Stevens

    Davidson Day

  • 5
    Justin Caldwell

    Justin Caldwell

    Fayetteville Academy

View Full Rankings

Related Articles

  • Top 17U Talent on Display at 252 Summer Finale

    Top 17U Talent on Display at 252 Summer Finale

    Tre Cordon • August 8

  • Players Who Claimed the Court at 252 Summer Finale: 15U

    Players Who Claimed the Court at 252 Summer Finale: 15U

    Tre Cordon • August 8

  • Top 15U Talent at 252 Summer Finale

    Top 15U Talent at 252 Summer Finale

    Tre Cordon • August 5

  • Way Too Early: Cape Fear Region Player Of The Year Watchlist

    Way Too Early: Cape Fear Region Player Of The Year Watchlist

    Charles Clark • August 5

  • 252 Summer Finale’s 16U Eyecatchers

    252 Summer Finale’s 16U Eyecatchers

    Tre Cordon • August 4

Loading...
Home North Carolina Underclassmen Centers who should be on your radar

Prep Network

  • Prep Dig
  • Prep Girls Hoops
  • Prep Hoops
  • Prep Lacrosse
  • Prep Redzone
  • Prep Soccer
  • Prep Softball

Company

  • News
  • Careers
  • Store
  • Partner Interest Form

Resources

  • Terms of Service
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility
  • Cookie Policy
  • Recruiting Tips
  • Student Loan Resources
  • College Scholarship Search

Support

  • My Account
  • Contact
  • Sitemap

© 2025 Prep Hoops. All rights reserved.