RJ took a massive step this season, going from a fringe starter/role player in 2024-25 to a star player and All-State honoree in 2025-26. It was clear to see this was his potential from a young age, but it’s still great to see him put in the work to get better during the offseason. His combination of length and athleticism is a matchup nightmare for most teams in the state, on both ends of the floor.

The youngest “star” of the weekend is RJ Davis RJ Davis 6'7" | PF Ridge View | 2028 State #80 Nation SC . RJ, like many in this list, was arguably as impactful defensively as he was offensively. Ashley Ridge hadn’t faced a team as big and athletic as Ridge View all season long, so Davis was able to take advantage of some bad decisions early on both as a shot-blocker and in the passing lanes. He has good instincts, but he can also cover lots of ground on the defensive end. Offensively, RJ crashed the glass hard and was a lob threat around the rim. He finished with 11 points, 8 rebounds, 3 blocks, and 2 steals, getting an early rest as the Blazers ran away with another State Championship.

From a prospect standpoint, RJ Davis RJ Davis 6'7" | PF Ridge View | 2028 State #80 Nation SC had the most impressive showing at the Stars & Stripes Showcase. He went head-to-head with one of the best prospects in Georgia and dominated him on both ends of the floor. It felt like RJ was everywhere on the floor, using his size and athleticism to finish at the rim, control the glass, and protect the rim. Davis also stepped out with a smooth right-wing three and had a few highlight-reel dunks in transition. He posted an 18-point, 14-rebound double-double to boost Ridge View for a big win.

The #2 Prospect in South Carolina’s Freshman Class RJ Davis RJ Davis 6'7" | PF Ridge View | 2028 State #80 Nation SC leads off my list of 2028 Standouts from the Phenom Grassroots TOC. He was extremely active in the early stages of Team CP3’s matchup with Upward Stars SE . CP3 has a big roster, so this allowed Davis to show off a different side of his game – one that should intrigue College Coaches. He was terrific in transition, frequently beating defenders down the floor and finishing with flair at the rim. RJ also showed off a good handle and strength in finishing in the paint. Davis went for 17 points and 6 rebounds in the loss.

RJ Davis RJ Davis 6'7" | PF Ridge View | 2028 State #80 Nation SC leads off my 2028 Standout List. He is an exciting prospect with terrific length and athleticism to affect the game around the rim on both ends. RJ started the game with a couple of high-flying slams but he’s not limited to receiving lobs and dump passes, he can get to the rim off the dribble. Two plays stood out in particular, once in the corner where he pump-faked a three and drove the baseline into a strong finish, and once in transition where he euro-stepped around a defender and finished with two hands. Davis racked up 10 Points, 2 Blocks, and 2 Steals in the win.