Growing Up Quick: 5 Freshmen Contributing to Playoff Teams
In this article:
As Conference tournaments continue and with playoff seeding right around the corner. Here are five from the Class of 2026 contributing to teams likely to make or that are already in the playoffs from both public and independent schools. Kendre…
Access all of Prep Hoops
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingAs Conference tournaments continue and with playoff seeding right around the corner. Here are five from the Class of 2026 contributing to teams likely to make or that are already in the playoffs from both public and independent schools.
At 6-8 and 230 Pounds. This is not your typical freshman. It is easy to why he paces his teams in points at 22.1 per game and Rebounds at 14.3 per game. He skies for rebound using his size and frame to box out opponents. He finishes with authority around the basket and also has soft touch around the rim. He is a lob threat with his jumping ability. He also contributes defensively routinely blocking shots.
Cole is a 6-7 guard that should be on coaches radars. Already displaying elite size for a guard. This young man really has the ability to put the ball in the basket. He is one of the best shooter in NC. The range he displays on his jumper seems unlimited. He is versatile and uses the threat of the jumper to attack the basket where he can create for himself and for his teammates. He is a name to watch as he is only going to get better.
Highlights
Quebedeaux is another guard in the class of 2026, whose team is actually in the playoffs. He has good handles and deceptive speed that he uses to get to the basket where he can create for himself and others. He is an instinctive passer and always knows how to find his team in the right spots. He can shoot the ball with deep three point range.
Highlights
Dionte Neal Dionte Neal 5’10” | PG Reidsville | 2026 State NC is a dynamic guard that is forming a dangerous dynamic duo with Kendre Harrison Kendre Harrison 6’8″ | C Reidsville | 2026 State NC at Reidsville. Averaging 21.9 Points per game and 11.8 assist while also chipping in 5 rebounds and 5.9 steals, this young man is a absolute handful. He uses speed but also displays the ability to effectively change speeds to keep the defense off balance. Active defensively. He has NO fear attacking the basket where he can finish with the floater or at the basket with finesse. He is one to watch in the class of 2026 for the next few years.
Highlights
AJ Gillespie
AJ Gillespie
Gillespie is a wing player that is a handful to cover when he is attacking the basket. He uses his length well to finish around player but also displays the ability to take the contact and finish through defenders as well. He goes after rebounds using his athleticism and his length to high point the ball. He is an intriguing prospect that will continue to get better. He best is yet to come and he should be a player coaches keep a close eye on in the next few years as his game continues to mature.