Way-Too-Early Breakout Player Rankings: Northern Athletic (4A)
The Northern Athletic Conference is set to be one of the more competitive divisions in 4A play. Here’s a look at some way-too-early breakout candidates. Wakefield: 2020 forward Vernon Fraley Jr. 2020 guard Brenon Rogers was one of the fearless…
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Continue ReadingThe Northern Athletic Conference is set to be one of the more competitive divisions in 4A play. Here’s a look at some way-too-early breakout candidates.
Wakefield: 2020 forward Vernon Fraley Jr.
2020 guard Brenon Rogers was one of the fearless leaders for Wakefield at the guard position on both ends this past season but 6-foot-5 forward Vernon Fraley Jr. will have a lot more room to roam with the departures of seniors Trae Smith, Elijah Shabazz and Ja’quez Shields.
Fraley is a forward that can attack the boards and score at a consistent clip from all three levels. With his size and emergence, he’ll be a top priority for Wakefield although some newcomers should be solid contributors.
Heritage: 2021 guard Lucas Taylor
Lucas Taylor started every game as a sophomore for Heritage High School, producing 14.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.2 steals and 1.1 assists per game. Alongside fellow sophomore Red Dunton, Taylor showed poise as a primary scoring option, though Dunton led the team in scoring with 17.5 points per game. With his size and versatility at 6-foot-5, look for Taylor to turn a corner with Dunton in tow.
Rolesville: 2020 forward Brandon Johnson
Rolesville finished 6-4 in the Northern Athletic Conference this past season and return big man Brandon Johnson. Johnson has earned an offer from NC Wesleyan this summer alongside teammate Darien Long, showing off his motor in the post and from the perimeter. He returns after putting up 4.6 points and 5.1 rebounds per game in 2018-19. He’ll have a bigger role on the horizon after a strong AAU season this past spring/summer.
Knightdale: 2021 guard Rodney Ellis
The departure of Jalen McDonald to Word of God Christian Academy leaves a hole in the backcourt for Knightdale. 2021 guard Rodney Ellis will be looked upon to carry more of the load after a productive 2018-19 season. He’ll return as the team’s leading scorer (8.8 points per game) as well as a top rebounder (3.2 rebounds per game) and assist-maker (3.4 assists per contest). Ellis’ role should grow in 2019-20 a whole lot more.
Corinth Holders: 2020 guard Marcus Bland
Marcus Bland will have some big shoes to fill for the Corinth Holders with the departure of Tyler Wooten but the 6-foot guard should be prepared as he returns as their highest scorer from a year ago. For a team that won five games total in 2018-19, Bland should be the most experienced in leading a turnaround.