On The Radar took its annual trip to Gatlinburg for the Rocky Top Invitational. Multiple states were represented and several players had big weekends. Here are some of the standouts from our time in the mountains:

Santonio Waide - B Maze Elite - 2027

Santonio Waide is an elite combo guard who can get hot in a hurry. He’s got the ball on a string and uses that to his advantage well. He’s able to maneuver through the defense to get to the bucket and score, and he can also dish it out to his teammates, throwing the ball on a rope. His jumpshot is the highlight of his game, a smooth, high-arching stroke that seems to always find the net. However, his competitiveness and motor sets his apart from most guards. He loves taking it right to his matchup, and he feeds off the energy of the game. Put all of this together, and you get a college-ready guard in Santonio Waide.

Tim Johnson - Sewer South - 2027

Tim is an incredibly intelligent big that plays the game the right way. Standing at 6’10, he is undoubtedly a defensive anchor who does not let anything get over him inside. Tim blocks several shots a game and alters every other shot he doesn’t block. His verticality is most impressive, demonstrating his discipline to avoid fouling. Offensively, he’s as solid as they come for a big. Because he understands his role and has impressive off-ball movement and screening, Tim’s game will translate really nicely to the next level. He’s also shown the ability to score in the post and knock down the occasional three. Elite rim protection and a high IQ make Tim Johnson one of the best bigs in the class of 2027.

Gianni McGhee - 444 Athletics - 2028

A true floor general. Gianni ran the show for 444 Athletics and has the capability to do everything on the floor. As a point guard, he understands the importance of taking care of the ball and getting it where it needs to go. He scores when the opportunity is there, but his passing ability is remarkable. Not only does he find the open guy, but he also zips his passes with pinpoint accuracy. He’s got a tight handle, and it really feels like he has full control of the game when the ball is in his hands. As desired from a smaller guard, Gianni is great at defending the ball, applying constant pressure, and is quick when sliding his feet. He also plays a role in the rebounding game, proving his all-around worth and massive impact for his team. Gianni McGhee is certainly a name to remember amongst the top guards in the south for the coming years.

Deshawn Coulter - Charlotte Aces - 2026

Deshawn Coulter has an absolute flamethrower. He pulls up for three out of the pick-and-roll, he runs off pin-downs, he’s able to slide to the corner, essentially, he can make every shot in the book. He’s a quick and shifty guard and is able to use those qualities to free himself up to shoot. His offense is a huge part of his team’s success, and he fully understands that. He always looks to be aggressive and get the ball on the rim. He also showed a solid ability to make plays for others, proving his worth at either guard position. The unsigned senior should continue to impress and fill up box scores for the rest of the spring. 

Jamon Moton - Elite Warriors - 2031 

Jamon is one of the best shooters I’ve seen this spring for a middle schooler. He already has great footwork and knows how to stay on balance for every shot. He can connect from three both off the dribble and off the catch at a high clip, and when he sees one go down, it’s a scary sight. He can rattle off multiple threes in an instant and is smart about the shots he hunts. He’s a good athlete with a strong frame, so he can go inside and do damage as well. A good motor and impressive defensive play make Jamon an exciting player to watch.