NNS Boys Basketball Report Card
This is the midseason report for our Neuse News Sports teams. I am grading the teams based on what I have seen from them so far. The grade is not a rating of how good they are. The grades are based on how each team has played this season compared to expectations. For example, if Team A is given a B+ and Team B is given a C, that does not automatically mean Team A is better than Team B. Each team is graded individually.
Bethel Christian (0-10) | Grade: C
The Trojans are struggling tremendously. A heartbreaking loss versus Jones Senior at the buzzer kind of set the tone for the season, but this team will not give up, and I expect Bethel Christian to pick up its first win of the season very soon.
Greene Central (8-2) | Grade: A-
The Rams are playing very well and unselfishly. They pass the ball extremely well and consistently make the extra pass to get an easier bucket. DJ Williams has been huge at times, and Josh Cetnar has taken a step forward this season. The supporting cast — the Avent twins, Jason Wilson, Trey Bynum, Jo Sanders, and Justin Mitchell — have all been high contributors throughout the season.
Jones Senior (4-5) | Grade: B+
The Trojans have been winning ball games. Coming from a team that went 1-20 last season, this group has progressed tremendously. Shoutout to Ezekiel Meadows — this kid is a baller and brings excitement to Trenton. Meadows plays above the rim and has emerged as the leader who can help bring more wins to Jones County.
Kinston (5-1) | Grade: A-
Obviously, Kinston got off to a very late start, but the talent is there. Keyshawn Herring has been amazing so far, scoring at all three levels. It also looks like he has grown another inch or two and now stands around 6’4. Jamarion Washington and Genesis Wiggins have been outstanding support for Herring, both scoring in the 20s alongside him. Kinston is missing some size and will continue to improve each game. This will be a fun team to watch, but defensive intensity must continue to improve.
North Lenoir (3-9) | Grade: C+
The Hawks are having a tough season so far. Coming off a 10-16 season and moving into an all-4A conference, challenges were expected. The bright spots have undoubtedly been the Veal brothers. Senior Cris Veal and junior Julian Veal have led the charge and are dangerous scoring threats from anywhere on the court. They are also extremely competitive. Other key contributors include AJ Black, Raquel Gardner, and Jakell Canon. The Hawks live and die by the three-point shot — when it is falling, they can compete with anyone, but when it is not, games can turn ugly.
South Lenoir (6-4) | Grade: B+
Coming off a 5-18 season, this is a great start for South Lenoir. The Blue Devils picked up a win over rival North Lenoir, are 3-1 at home, and currently hold a winning record. Gavin Brock has been sensational and consistently exciting, playing above the rim. Jaylyn Mills’ volleyball-line three-pointer for the win will likely go down as one of the most memorable plays in program history. South Lenoir has several other contributors surrounding those two as well. Coach Wade Vance has done a phenomenal job to start the season.
