Wilson’s high motor and willingness to battle inside were on full display against a talented St. James frontcourt featuring multiple Division I prospects. Although Wilson and Holy Cross came up short, his energy stood out as he worked his way to 13 points and seven rebounds. The modern forward enters the season on the shortlist of CHSAA MVP candidates, while Holy Cross deserves to be considered a legitimate title contender. It will be interesting to see what one of the Empire State’s premier juniors does throughout the high school season.

Could possibly be the best big man in the CHSAA. Still has upside to his game. A big body that understands the importance of gaining position in the paint. He scores inside with power or finesse. Good footwork. Can stretch the floor and hit the three. Has shown a nice face up game as well. Possesses an assortment of post moves. A big presence in the defensive end in the boards and rim protection. A three level scorer. Can play above the tim as well as putting the ball on the floor.Pictured)

Wilson already has made a name for himself, impacting games with his rebounding, physicality and production around the basket, but his expanding perimeter game could unlock another level. He looked noticeably more confident taking threes Saturday and attempted them with significantly less hesitation. If that becomes a consistent part of his game, it changes the way defenses have to approach him. Already one of the better juniors in the New York City area, Wilson has an opportunity to further establish himself among the CHSAA’s top players this season.

Wilson is our pick for CHSAA MVP this season. He’s a matchup nightmare, very skilled, more aggressive and knows it’s his time to take over. This season he will face the focus of the defense every night but he’s ready to bring it and become the face of the league. His coaching staff will look to feature him a ton, he should lead the Knights in rebounding, takes steps as a defender and a leader. Monster 2026-2027 ahead. 

A 31 point, 13 rebound statline highlighted just how dominant Wilson was in their round of 16 matchup. The springy 6-foot-8 forward plays exceptionally hard and few players in the city are able to handle his speed and athleticism combined. A breakout year is inbound

Wilson is just going to be a Junior but he’s still right at the top of the list of potential CHSAA MVP candidates this upcoming season. He’s a massive wing that finishes over smaller defenders, he’s too quick for bigs and just keeps improving as a shot maker. Holy Cross will lean on him a ton this year and for good reason. They might just have the best player in the league if he plays to his potential. 

Just scratching the surface and that’s a scary thought. Really good using his body to post up. Showed an assortment of shots in the paint. Face up jumper, little turn around fade away. He also finishes with toughness and strength when he gets the defender on his back. Displayed deep range and moves really well without the ball for a taller player finding open areas. Outstanding rim protector and post defender.

A first time all state selection. Was selected to the 10th team. Should see his name next year on a top 6 all state team. He battled weekly defending against D1 players in the post. As well as the rest of the D1 players on the floor nightly. A big physical presence in the paint. He gains really good position in the post. Has shown a face up jumper as well as an assortment of post moves. Moves well for a big man relocating. Can knock down the open three.

Repeating myself again but Paytin burst onto the scene quickly establishing himself as a top post presence in the CHSAA. He gains post position using his size and strength.
Finishes with power inside, very capable of hitting the three. Really good range for the big man. In games I’ve seen him in he showed the ability to hit face up jumpers at a high rate with a soft touch. Big time potential and upside for the resurgent Holy Cross squad.

The big man is a player you need on your radar if he’s not already. Excellent in gaining position and scoring with power inside. Possesses nice footwork showing off a turn around jumper. Can knock down open threes. I was impressed with the big man’s ability and awareness to find the open area to nail jump shots. A physical presence on both ends with rebounding and interior play.