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.