Lemon Street Classic: Day 1
Day 1 at the Lemon Street Classic was filled with a lot of talent. I wasn’t able to catch every game but the games I did catch were full of promising talent. Berkmar continue to show that they are one of the best teams in the state. McDonough was impressive and they play like they have something to prove. Walton is a sleeper in the state of GA. North Cobb Christian has a very young team full of potential.
2025 6’7 W Nigel Thomas (McDonough) is a smooth criminal. He has nice stroke and great range. His length on defense caused problems for Blythewood all night.
Clarke Central (GA)
2025 6’4 CG Marcus Gillespie (Clarke Central) was one of the more athletic guards on display. He is explosive when attacking the rim and he finished a number of times in traffic. Gillespie also had his jumper working for him from the perimeter and the midrange pullup jumper.
2024 6’1 PG Laneric Gill (Clarke Central) is a solid point guard. He was the 6th man off the bench but he plays starter minutes. He is a lefty with a good handle. He doesn’t force the game, he lets the game come to him. His court awareness was impressive. He showed the ability to finish around bigger defenders. On defense he was assigned with guarding the best player.
2026 6’1 F Anthony Lonon Jr. (Clarke Central) is undersized for his role but he has a big frame which helps him hold his own. He was huge on the boards being able to track the ball off the rim. Lonon has good touch around the basket and he knows how to play the glass.
Berkmar (GA)
2025 6’6 W Eddie Cooke III (Berkmar) is known as a lights out shooter but this game he showed that he can use his frame to play physical and bully’s defenders in the paint. He also showed his athletic ability when he got up for a one handed slam. He is a huge part of Berkmar’s success this season.
2025 6’10 F Mekhi Ragland (Berkmar) continues to impress me with his play. His footwork and touch in the paint continues to separate him from other bigs. He also knocked down and open 3 from the top of the key. The more I see him the more agile he looks. This kid is definitely putting in the work and it continues to show in his play.
North Cobb Christian (GA)
2027 6’7 F Brock Bass Bonner (North Cobb Christian) has a ton of upside. The lefty can knockdown an open perimeter jumper. He can also put the ball on the ground and attack the rim. He finished with 19 pts in a win. He is a player to keep your eye on as he continues to develop. Definitely a D-1 talent.
2027 6’3 SG Isaiah Chandler (North Cobb Christian) is another freshman to keep your eye on. He can score on all 3 levels. Chandler showed the ability to use the dribble to create and get to his spots on the floor.