Team Preview: High Point Central
High Point Central Bison
Austin LocklearLast season was one of the better seasons that High Point Central Boys Basketball has had in the last 10 years and they look to grow on last season while coming into the new Metro 4A. The Bison finished 16-10 overall and 6-4 in conference finishing in 3rd place. The season ended in the 2nd Round of the state playoffs after an opening round win vs. South Caldwell and then losing a tough contest to Hoke County. The successful season helped send a couple seniors into the college ranks and helped some of the returners grow into bigger roles for this year.
High Point Central is looking to return 7 players from last year’s team and is adding some talented young players along with a few new faces. This year’s team will have a strong combination of talent, size, athleticism, and experience to help pursue a conference championship and playoff run in the state 4A division.
The team will participate again in the competitive Sheetz Holiday Tournament in High Point, NC during Christmas break along with the Bobcat Classic being held at Greensboro College vs. New Garden Friends School.
Players to keep an eye on this year for the Bison:
Chris Daniel is a 5’9” senior point guard who has long arms and an ability to control the game with his knowledge and savvy. Daniel has a solid jump shot which should keep defenses honest, and also is a strong distributor and leader. Has the ability to have a big time year.
Mason Bowers is a 6’3” sophomore forward that can score from all over the floor. Bowers is a very skilled forward who has good footwork around the basket, soft touch, and skills. With improved ballhandling he can also make plays off the dribble and has range on his jump shot out to the 3point line. This should be a breakout year for the sophomore.
Trent Westray is a 6’5” junior forward that will bring size and toughness to the team. Westray is a hard worker with a knack for rebounding and playing physical. He has grown a little over the offseason and has improved his all-around skill set.
Jamel Marbuary is a 6’0” athletic wing that can score and rebound with really long arms and jumping ability. His ability to attack the basket helps him with making athletic finishes around the rim at the same time having a really good pull up jump shot. Should have a breakout year on both ends of the floor.
Austin Locklear is a 6’2” junior guard that has size and scoring ability all over the floor. He comes in as a really good perimeter scorer that can make plays and score from all levels of the court. His playmaking and scoring ability should be a great addition to the team as he will be relied upon to do just that. Locklear already has the attention of some college programs and should continue to add to the list with improved play and confidence this year.