Five Top 2019 NC Big Forwards and Combo Forwards
Five Top Big Forward/Combo Forwards in North Carolina’s Class of 2019
Greg Gantt, a 6-8 senior at Trinity Christian in Fayetteville is my top Combo Forward in North Carolina. The versatile Gantt, who has verbally committed to Providence, is one of the best athletes in the Class of 2019, yet he still possesses a lot of upside and that’s because of his excellent work ethic. This young man is steadily adding to his offensive arsenal. He drives it well and he’s become a solid mid-range shooter. He can guard any position well and he’s an outstanding finisher. Once he starts knocking down shots from the arc, he’ll be a five-star performer.
With Gantt already committed, here are my “Next 5” Big/Combo Forwards in NC’s Class of 2019
1-Dericko Williams, 6-9 215, PF, 2019, W-S Prep, Winston-Salem, NC
A running and jumping athlete, Dericko excels in rebounding, defending and finishing with a bang. He finishes well in transition, plus he can drive it from the high post area and throw-down impressively. He has enormous potential to become a defender in the mold of Dennis Rodman.
2-Patrick Williams, 6-8 220, F, 2019, W. Charlotte HS, Charlotte, NC
This young man is a superb athlete, with all of the physical tools. His shot looks good and it’s solid from mid-range, but he needs more reps in order hit from the arc more consistently. He’s a willing passer and he does a good job of delivering timely passes.
3-Justin McKoy, 6-8 215, F, 2019, Panther Creek HS, Cary, NC
He is a very well skilled combo forward, who shoots it well and he also drives it well. He’s solid in all phases of the game. He’s a match-up problem for bigger forwards on the perimeter and he uses his size well in match-ups with smaller defenders in the lane.
4-Imajae Dodd, 6-7 220, PF, 2019, Greene Central HS, Snow Creek, NC
Pictured at the top, Imajae is an ultra strong young man, with very good verticality and he possesses excellent hands. He rebounds with a passion and he is a good defender and a rim protector. He has a good feel for the game on the offensive end. His jumper from 15-16 is good and he’s a really good interior passer.
5-Mathew Smith, 6-7 215, F, 2019, Independence HS, 2019, Charlotte, NC-HMM+
Mathew is a warrior on the basketball court, who boards and defends, while also putting points on the board. Mainly an insider for Independence in their run to the 4A State Championship, I saw in AAU ball that this young man can guard on the perimeter and also that he has some game from the mid-range area. He can drive it and his shot from 16′ is pretty solid.