2022 Stock Risers in Cumberland County

The 2019-20 season has come and gone, and each year we see different players rise up and take on expanded roles for their respective teams. Sometimes freshmen are able to step in right away and make a big impact. Older players take on a bigger role. Here’s a few players I’ve seen this year from the Cumberland County area who look poised to continue their upward trajectory. <strong>1. Tamia Morris – EE Smith 2022</strong> There’s a reason why Morris is considered to be one of the top players in her class. She came in and made an immediate impact for the Bulldogs as a freshman. She’s a solid point guard who looks comfortable facilitating and scoring the ball. She has uses hesitation moves to keep defenders guessing. She has a solid pull-up jumper and can get to the rim. At the rim, she’s able to finish over multiple defenders. strong potential. <strong>2. LeAsia Matthews – Fayetteville Christian 2022</strong> <span style="font-size: 1rem;">Matthews plays with great pace in transition</span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">. She’s the Warriors primary ball-handler and point guard. She is a standout on both the offensive end and defensive end. Defensively, she’s quick and she lock up on ball. Forces the player she’s guarding into picking up their dribble. Offensively, she is a good three-point shooter with a quick trigger, and can get to the rim by using her speed.</span> <strong>3. Khalen Williams – Villiage Christian 2022</strong> What makes Williams an effective player is her ability to shoot, especially from the three-point line. When she’s wide open, it’s near automatic. She’s very energetic and smart; she can pump fake a defender trying to close out and dribble in closer for a midrange shot. If need be, she can handle the ball and she can finish at the rim. Smart player with a knack for being in the right place at the right time. <strong>4. Taylour Bathea – Fayetteville Christian 2022</strong> Bathea forms part of a solid young group for the Warriors for the next couple of years. She is kind of a utility player, fitting in as needed, but it’s not hard to imagine her taking on a bigger role next season. She makes plays that don’t always appear on a box score. She’s out there hustling, boxing out and setting screens. Has range out to the three-point line. Doesn’t always look to score, but is able to. <strong>5. Jasimine Wallace – Seventy First 2022</strong> With the loss of this year’s senior class, Jasimine looks poised to take on a larger role next season for the Falcons. She’s a physical presence in the paint and can help replicate some of the inside play of her teammate Taylor. She has good footwork in the post and is a solid rebounder. She moves well on the court. She’s also able to shoot a little bit from the midrange. Could have a big Junior year.