This Concord Academy group has one of the more well rounded rosters in North Carolina and a lot of that is due to the fact that they have one of the most well rounded players regardless of class in James Minlend James Minlend 6'6" | SF Brewster Academy | 2027 #146 Nation New E . His length, two way instincts, and ability to exploit advantageous matchups allow Minlend to play a low maintenance high production game. Minlend gets his offense in a variety of ways, finishes at the rim, mid-post isolations, and operating as a screener where he’s comfortable rolling or popping. He really shines defensively as he possesses the physical tools to guard nearly everyone on the floor. Minlend’s offer list has grown in recent weeks and I fully expect that to continue as he possesses so many traits that translate to the next level.

Minlend looked the part of a high-level modern wing. He showed the ability to handle the ball, score from multiple areas, and use his size defensively. His length and versatility created matchup problems throughout the event, and he consistently flashed long-term upside on both ends of the floor.

Minlend is one of the best prospects in North Carolina that doesn’t get talked about enough and he’s helped Concord Academy to a 27-2 record, the #2 overall seed in NCISAA 3A, and the group that find themselves as the biggest threat to knock off Greensboro Day. Minlend is averaging 13.7 Points, 4.0 Rebounds, 2.2 Assists, 1.7 Steals, and 0.6 Blocks per game on the season. He’s doing all of that on 55/29/65 splits from the floor. Minlend’s percentage from beyond the arc is something that I believe will increase with time due to how smooth his mid-range game is. He’s got a great bag of tricks in the mid-post that allow him to separate from defenders for tough buckets. He’s got a great foundational skillset, physical tools, and is clearly bought in on this teams success and his role within the group. Minlend is a guy that will be a sneaky Gatorade Player of the Year candidate as a senior if he can continue progressing at this rate. For Concord Academy to on a run, Minlend showing early signs of taking a leap will be of great benefit.

Minlend is one of the most gifted and versatile players in the class due to his inside/out two way ability. He’s got a truly refined mid-range game, great footwork, and a real understanding of where his spots are and how to get there. He can hit the fall away over either shoulder as well. What I loved from him in this game was his work in the two man game as a screener. Minlend is a legit multi-positional defender that is more than capable of making a real difference at that end of the floor. With his ability to do multiple things at both ends of the floor and athletic upside more than obvious, Minlend will start to get recruited by programs around the country.

One of the most surprising results on Saturday was Concord Academy’s complete domination of Dorman (SC) in the final game of the day. There is no doubt the Eagles are one of the best teams in the Hoop State, but Dorman is a traditional powerhouse in South Carolina and has an excellent squad this year. One of the reasons why Concord was at the peak of it’s powers was the first half from James Minlend James Minlend 6'6" | SF Brewster Academy | 2027 #146 Nation New E . His combination of size and athleticism is a nightmare matchup for high-school wings. He had his way offensively, using his bounce to finish in the paint, size to work small switches into the post, and even connected on a few jumpers. Minlend’s services weren’t needed in the second half because of the huge lead, but he still finished with 15 points, 4 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 2 steals in the win.

Minlend is a long, athletic wing that excels getting downhill and being an effective finisher and playmaker. He uses his athleticism to fly around the court and also be a matchup nightmare for opposing teams. Minlend finishes high above the rim and can create havoc defensively. It will be interesting to see his development over the course of the season and these next two years.

Minlend was a strong presence in the Concord Academy frontcourt in their run to this past season’s NCISAA State Title game, checking in at No. 2 at the small forward/wing spot. He’s got a nice blend of versatility to his game after producing 11.3 points on 44 made 3-pointers in his sophomore year with the Eagles. He also put up 3.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.4 steals per contest. As he elevates his play this spring/summer with Team Loaded VA, look for his stock to rise in the 2027 rankings.

Game is clearly trending upward. Creating mismatches with his blend of size, athleticism, shooting, and ability to attack off the bounce. Utilizes his length well to finish, alter shots, and secure rebounds. Accelerates quickly into a blur-like burst attacking space. Shifty, difficult to stay in front of him. Excellent passer. A lock down defender who puts it all on the line for his team. He is a 3-level scorer who has an especially strong midrange game. Please take note of this 2027 wing guard. Looks likely to have a big summer.

Concord Academy remains unbeaten in Metrolina Conference action at 11-0 thanks to the contributions of James Minlend James Minlend 6'6" | SF Brewster Academy | 2027 #146 Nation New E . He checks in at 26th in the latest 2027 rankings update, posting 12.2 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game as another all-around presence for them to rely on. He’s shown he can step outside and knock down shots in the mid-range and perimeter area to create matchup problems on the floor.

Minlend is a sizeable name to get to know at Concord Academy in the 2027 class. He’s putting up breakout numbers with 13.7 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.4 steals per game in his sophomore season as the Eagles are currently 15-2. He’s been a pivotal piece to their success this season with his ability to finish around the rim and knock down shots beyond the painted area. He’s a name to track closely in the 704 area.