CUMMING, Ga. — The Opening is the gateway to travel ball in the south. It’s the event that kicks off spring and summer basketball. 

That’s to say that performing well at this event is a momentum-building opportunity. It can spark a players’ buzz. 

Standout guards have been covered, now it’s time to look at wings, forwards who used the platform to their advantage. 

Here are five that caught my eye: 

Emmanuel Ouedraogo - Norcross Heat - 2030

Playing up two age groups, Ouerdraogo was one of the most imposing paint patrollers of the weekend. Such would have been the case no matter the age group. At a strongly-built 6-foot-11—give or take an inch—he’s a force down low. Whether rebounding, protecting the rim, or finishing with authority, Ouerdraogo overpowered in stretches. Obviously, a prospect that young has plenty to refine throughout his career, but he’s got the tools to continue to grow into a prospect to know. 

Lucas Fainter - Georgia Legacy - 2028

Fainter has a well-rounded game. A double-double threat, he can impact the game inside and out. He’s a great target for his guards in the paint, and he can score off putbacks thanks to his rebounding efforts. However, Fainter has skill to his game as well. He can hit a shot, make a play off the bounce. 

Symeon Watson - Team Swish/Honor - 2029

Watson is a big wing at 6-foot-7, 6-foot-8 or so, and he can flat-out shoot it. With that size, his ability to knock down shots is going to draw plenty of attention his way. He’s shown the ability to create with the ball too. Watson’s development will be fun to track over the next few years. 

Tim Johnson - Sewer South - 2027

There may not have been a better defensive prospect at The Opening than Johnson. In the 6-foot-10 range, Johnson is long and mobile. That combination allows him to cover a ton of ground whether that means sliding out to the perimeter or locking down the paint. He’s already a name that coaches need to check in on, but once he adds strength, adds to his offensive bag, he’ll be a can’t-miss guy. 

Josh Tec has been covering prep basketball in Georgia and nationally since 2020. He has served myriad roles as a writer and evaluator, including editor-in-chief. Tec has a degree in journalism from Georgia State. Follow his work on X (Twitter) @_joshtec.