Lanier is part of a trio of guards at North Cross that are going to be tough to matchup with, and he’s capable of impacting the game in a lot of different ways for them. He can work off the ball and he’s one of the best shooters in the Roanoke area, he is shifty off the bounce with the ability to break down defenders and make plays for himself and others, he’s a good on ball defender who moves his feet and turns ball handlers, and he brings a competitive chip to every game he’s in too.

Carlos Baxter-Lanier is among the states top sharpshooters regardless of class. I recently was able to catch their matchup against Liberty Christian Academy and he was simply lights out he made 4 or 5 threes in the contest while making the right plays and reads for his team. Carlos recently went on an unofficial visit to VMI and it’s easy to see the value he brings long-term to college programs with his elite shot-making and shiftiness. What I like most about his game is his ability to play on or off the ball and to get open often without the ball in his hands. He will have a major Junior year for North Cross as one of their top players moving forward.

One of the best hidden gems in the 2028 class, Carlos is an absolute marksman. A quick and shifty guard who can play the 1 or 2 and beat you off the dribble or is able to score off the ball. Does a great job getting to his spots and running in transition. Great IQ and passing abilities; also an excellent defender. Carlos is an excellent 2 way guard who runs the floor well in transition, makes the right plays for his team, and simply knows how to win. Carlos will be a highly sought-after player for college programs looking to add versatile guards.

Lanier has been nothing short of dazzling for North Cross in his first two years, helping them to deep state tournament runs and playing some of his best ball in the biggest games when we see him. He’s a talented combo guard who can really light it up from deep with range and a quick release, he has a shifty handle and can create space to make shots from all three levels, he is very good in ball screens with the ability to attack it or read the help and deliver all sorts of passes, and he’s a tough nosed on ball defender as well.

Carlos shouldn’t be a new name for most, as he is one of the top 2028 guards in the state. He seems to be everywhere playing in AAU events, at local camps, or he is in the gym putting in work. Carlos is an effective ball-handler and efficient scorer. What stood out to me most about him is his ability to handle pressure, get to his spots, and create for himself or others. He’s the ideal combo guard and will be a major piece to a very talented North Cross team this year.

Carlos Lanier Carlos Lanier 6'1" | SG/PG North Cross | 2028 State VA has steadily built a reputation as one of the most skilled guards in Southwest Virginia. The North Cross standout plays with a maturity that stands out immediately when watching him compete.

Lanier is a natural scorer who uses a quick first step and strong body control to create separation. He doesn’t rush possessions and plays with great pace, allowing him to get to his spots while keeping defenders guessing. His ability to score in bunches makes him difficult to contain, and his feel for the game continues to improve each time he takes the floor.

At No. 47 overall and ranked as the state’s No. 8 combo guard, Lanier has positioned himself for a big year. With a strong frame and a versatile offensive skill set, he’s a prospect college coaches will want to monitor closely over the next few years.

Carlos Baxter Lanier is one of the fastest-rising young prospects in the Roanoke area. He is already making noise as a go-to scorer in the 2028 class.

Lanier is a smooth combo guard with a strong offensive foundation. He brings a polished scoring package. This scoring ability stands out for his age. Averaging 18.0 points per game while leading his division, he has proven he can carry a scoring load against solid competition.

Lanier’s shooting ability is a major strength. With a quick, confident release and range beyond the arc, he’s a consistent threat from deep. Pair that with his ability to create off the dribble. Whether it’s step-backs, pull-ups, or attacking closeouts, he becomes a difficult cover.

He also shows a strong understanding of the game. His decision-making, off-ball movement, and overall feel allow him to contribute beyond just scoring. Consider his ability to finish at the rim. He impacts the game defensively. It’s easy to see why his stock is trending upward early.

Lanier is an efficient perimeter scorer with a quick, compact release, as evidenced by his 45 made three-pointers this season. The sophomore is comfortable shooting both off the catch and off the dribble, making him a versatile offensive threat. He plays with a strong feel for the game and understands how to find quality scoring opportunities within the flow of the offense. With his shooting ability and developing skill set, Lanier is an intriguing prospect moving forward.