New Year’s Classic names to remember

New Year’s Classic names to remember

By Robert Alfonso Jr.

Loganville, GA – A week into the New Year, basketball fans in Georgia were treated to some electrifying matchups at Grayson High.

Basketball fans watched games come down to the wire, while the finale finished in double overtime. Through it all there were some notable performances.

Here are some of the standouts.

Khylan McKennie | 2023 | Eagle’s Landing caused so much havoc on the floor that it was contagious. The 6-foot point guard set the tone for the Eagles. He was atop of the press either creating a turnover or stealing it himself for an easy basket. His on-ball defense and quick hands are essential to the press. He also puts teammates in good scoring positions.

Da’Avion Thomas | 2023 | McDonough is an aggressive 6-foot guard looking for all the smoke on either end of the floor. He gets things going by playing an active role in the Warhawks’ pressure defense. This allows him to get loose and into the transition for some easy-scoring opportunities. Now, when things get to the half-court set, he can pull the strap out and reign shots up quickly filling the scorebook. 

Randy Latham | 2023 | Langston Hughes is one of the fast point guards in the state. He plays the position at a high level. His change of pace causes and angles keeps defenders off balance. The 6-foot-1 has quick hands too, so if an opponent’s handle is shaky Latham will be ripping the player off. His energy helps get the Panthers going. He can play above the rim too.

Justin Redmond | 2023 | South Gwinnett showed he can shoot the ball at a high clip. Being able to shoot the ball is something college coaches are looking for at the next level. This 6-foot-2 guard sprayed defenders from all over the floor. When they ran out on him, Redmond blew by them for tough contested baskets at the rim. This Comets player was also a problem for opponents on the defensive end. No matter what was going on, Redmond was in the mix.

Devan Rush | 2023 | Milton is not a household name across the state but is one some college program needs to become familiar knowing. He shot the ball well for the Eagles when it was needed the most. At 6-foot-3, Rush has a good-looking shot. When he gets going from the perimeter it can build momentum for his team. 

Anthony Alston | 2024 | Grayson is a bucket-getter. This 6-foot-3 guard knows how to create shots for himself and anyone around him. This is a rare trait for a player who can take over a game by putting the ball in the basket. He never looks rushed but plays at a quick pace. There are limited wasted movements in his game. The jumper is smooth with a quick release.

Cannon Richards | 2024 | Kell needs to get more respect. All this 6-foot-7 forward does is do all the dirty work necessary for the Longhorns. He is on the boards on either end of the floor and a good compliment in the front court. Richards’ motor is always revved up. This energy magnet will make sure to leave it all on the floor. He is not just a defensive contributor. Richards extends the floor with his perimeter game. 

Xavier Shegog | 2024 | Mount Vernon continues to impress on the hardwood. His strength is such a tremendous asset on both ends of the floor. The 6-foot-7 forward is a grown man on the class and at attacking the rim. He has a quick first step to the basket. His game continues to develop. Look for him to finish the season strong while college programs inquire about this athletic wing.

CJ Brown | 2024 | Kell still remains one of the more explosive guards in the state on the floor and in the air. At 6-foot-2, he can change the game by blowing by defenders and disrupting the opposing team’s offense flow. His athleticism is next level blocking shots off the glass, while also then finishing above the rim for an emphatic dunk. He has become a must-see prospect for all college coaches. 

CJ Hyland | 2024 | Grayson has gotten, what seems to be, so much quicker running the Rams offense. He shifts through the lane at a rapid pace distributing the ball and knocking down shots. Hyland is a point guard with a strong feel and IQ for the position.

Emmanuel Green | 2026 | Cedar Grove is a prospect to add to the long list of new names in the class. This 6-foot-5 forward is long and rangy. When you first see him walk on the floor, it is hard to imagine him being a freshman. Green plays inside out, which is not normally common for players his age. He is comfortable enough to take the punishment. His touch from just outside the paint is decent and fluid. Many parts of his game will develop through maturity. Bright future is ahead for this Saints player.