North Carolina’s Top 2018 Big Men
The big man position is pivotal in all levels of basketball from the NBA to youth league, a team with a skilled big man is usually the team to beat. The class of 2018 big men in North Carolina is a strong group with many on their way to playing college basketball.
Jayden GardnerJayden Gardner (6’8, Heritage HS/Team Loaded)-Gardner has had quite the past 12 months, he has blown up on the recruiting trail and has had a great start to the spring travel basketball circuit. His game revolves around scoring around the basket and rebounding. He has good footwork for his size and is a beast at boxing out to get in position for rebounds.
Blake Preston (6’9, Charlotte Christian/PSB Select)-Preston went ahead and ended his recruitment almost a month ago and chose Liberty University. The Flames are getting a skilled big man who can score on the low-block and who can step out and knock down the mid-range jumper. He is playing with PSB Select on the spring/summer travel circuit.
KC Hankton (6’9, United Faith)-Hankton is the son of former Carolina Panther Karl Christopher Hankton, and the athletic gene runs right to KC. He is long and athletic, can block shots and has great timing. He is good at knocking down the mid-range jumper and can score on the block.
Immanuel Bates (6’9, Northwood Temple/Team Felton)-Not many players have had this spring that Bates has had regarding recruiting. Bates is a monster on the inside with his length and athleticism. He sports 7’2 wingspan, high-energy, hardworking and a winner. He has picked up offers from UConn, Houston, Georgia Tech, Oklahoma State among others.
Jalin Gamble (6’9, Team Felton/TW Andrews HS)-Gamble is a promising prospect at 6’9, he is long and skilled. Has good timing to black shots and is a good defender. He has already received some Division One offers.