Underrated Stars on State Title Contenders

Every single season there are teams across the state that are bonafide contenders from day one. Undeniable that they will be a real factor in the season's final days, these teams are usually led by stars widely known throughout the talking heads of the hoop scene. Among these stars are guys that star in their role, often wiling to sacrifice their own production for whatever the team needs. We'll probably do this throughout the season as more contenders and stars emerge, but here are a few guys that fit this mold through the seasons early weeks.    Lowe is a high-academic sniper at The Burlington School with a nose for the basketball that allows him to be a real factor on the glass and winning 50/50 battles. He is always shot ready, an active defender, and capable of attacking closeouts to make a play. His role on this TBS team to provide an offensive spark to the 2nd unit and bring a real rugged energy to the group. If TBS achieves their ultimate goal this season by winning the NCISAA 2A championship, there's no doubt that Lowe will be a huge reason why.     Jamison is a very important piece to this Myers Park team and his shooting touch is the main reason why. Jamison has proven himself as a guy you can rely on to knock shots down with consistency off the catch or bounce. His game continues to grow but he's not one to deviate from the plan, everything he does will typically be within the flow and just to help the team win. As his game grows, his role at Myers Park will too, but there's no doubt he's a very valuable piece on a roster loaded with next level talent.     Early on it is very clear that Forsyth Country Day has a special group loaded with a blend of returning and new talent. JR Adams is the secret ingredient to that recipe because of his selflessness, consistency, and leadership. Adams makes his open shots, doesn't turn it over, swings possessions defensively, and helps keep everyone aligned at all times. He's comfortable playing a role as we've seen with [program_tooltip program_id='2226228' first='Team' last='CP3'] over the years, his skillset and intangibles are a huge reason for their success too. Adams continues to help elite teams win at an elite level.     Bowes is another piece on a Greensboro Day team that is proving to be one of the deepest in NC. It might not be on full display every single game but Bowes is a skilled playmaker with real size. He had a great summer with Whit Holcomb Faye and [program_tooltip program_id='2399240' first='Dub' last='Salem']. His role at Greensboro Day varies from night to night but he is able showcase his vision in the open floor, three level ability at 6'6", and his defensive versatility.     I know they don't compete for a state championship but they're the bonafide favorite to win OTE while also defending their title from last year. Moravian Prep has become the home for underrated stars and this year's roster is full of them. [player_tooltip player_id='1482610' first='Mike' last='Jones'] is such a great compliment to Caleb Jones and [player_tooltip player_id='1772411' first='Isaac' last='Ellis'] because of his ball pressure, outside touch, and ability to play next to either guy and fill the others void. He brings a ton of positive energy on and off the court, and finds a way to capitalize on his chances to run the show when his number is called. High academic PG with a lot of skill and an ego free game.

Every single season there are teams across the state that are bonafide contenders from day one. Undeniable that they will be a real factor in the season's final days, these teams are usually led by stars widely known throughout the talking heads of the hoop scene. Among these stars are guys that star in their role, often wiling to sacrifice their own production for whatever the team needs. We'll probably do this throughout the season as more contenders and stars emerge, but here are a few guys that fit this mold through the seasons early weeks.