Frank Spencer Holiday Classic: Day 1 Standouts

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — The Frank Spencer Holiday Classic has long been a staple of the high school basketball calendar in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, serving as a showcase for some of the top NCHSAA programs from the 336 area. Year after year, the event brings together teams primarily from Forsyth, Guilford, and Stokes counties, creating a competitive environment rooted in regional rivalries, familiarity and pride. The event has also been part of the landscape that produced elite talent, including Chris Paul (West Forsyth), reinforcing its reputation as a meaningful proving ground in the Triad. With a mix of returning programs and emerging talent, Day 1 once again lived up to its reputation as a platform for high-level basketball across the Triad. Several players separated themselves through their skill, character, impact on winning, and overall feel for the game.

Branden Warren - Reagan High School - 2026

Warren was instrumental in leading Reagan to an upset victory over No. 2 Mount Tabor, capped by a game-winning buzzer beater three. Beyond the headline moment, he consistently controlled pace and momentum, showing confidence as a shot-maker while remaining poised off the bounce. His ability to rise in pressure situations and energize those around him separated his performance from the rest of the field. His shot making confidence makes him a guard opposing defenses must account for through 4 quarters.

Kamauri Manuel - West Forsyth - 2027

Manuel consistently played with elite pace while maintaining control, putting constant pressure on opposing defenses. He showcased his ability to play above the rim, pairing vertical explosiveness with a dangerous first step. He has a true nature in operating the offense, and making right decisions. Manuel is firmly establishing himself as one of the top 2027’s in North Carolina as well as someone who should be monitored at the Low Division 1 level. His physical tools and aggressiveness give him a clear long-term upside as his game continues to mature.

Jordan Tate - West Forsyth -   2026 

Tate’s advanced feel for the game stood out immediately. He made quick, decisive reads, attacking gaps when shots weren’t available and consistently creating paint touches. His ability to draw fouls, keep the offense organized, and make the correct player under control made him a stabilizing presence throughout Day 1. He impacts winning by valuing possession quality and consistently playing within structure.

B.J. Gray - South Stokes - 2026

Gray brought a highly effective old-school interior approach, thriving through physicality, patience, and touch around the rim. While he may appear undersized at first glance, his footwork, strength, and finishing ability allowed him to dominate the paint. He consistently navigated traffic with ease, proving efficiency can outweigh traditional size expectations. His comfort operating in the paint makes him difficult to scheme against. Finished with 22 points and 13 rebounds.

Amare McClinton - Reynolds - 2028

McClinton displayed a natural scoring instinct well beyond his class. Smooth with the ball and confident creating space, he scored in a variety of ways and maintained efficiency once he found his rhythm. His creativity as a shot creator made him difficult to contain, especially when given room to operate. As he continues to add strength, his offensive ceiling becomes even more intriguing. 

Seth Reynolds - Mount Tabor - 2027

Reynolds made his impact by consistently being in the right place at the right time He scored efficiently through well-timed cuts, offensive rebounds, and open pull-up opportunities. His willingness to let the game come to him and capitalize on simple scoring chances highlighted his strong understanding of team basketball. He provides value by not needing touches forced his way and still finding ways to get involved and score. 

Will Koonin - Mount Tabor - 2026 

Koonin showcased a mature approach, allowing the game to unfold naturally around him. He made smart, timely decisions and generated offense through effort plays, offensive rebounding, and intelligent off-ball movement. Over the years, he has established a consistently reliable game and approach, bringing the same level of composure and impact night after night. That consistency also carries over beyond the hardwood, as Koonin is a standout on the baseball field as well, further highlighting his athleticism, competitiveness, and feel for the game.

Dominique Tshiboyi - East Forsyth - 2026 

Tshiboyi delivered steady, physical contributions that often don’t appear in the box score. He was consistently first to the glass, ran the floor with purpose, and provided disciplined defensive positioning. His willingness to do the necessary work made him a true glue piece who positively impacted winning possessions. Players with his motor consistently elevate team performance.