Justin Caldwell, a 6‑foot‑9 forward from Fayetteville Academy, has been named the 910Preps Basketball Player of the Year after a senior season that blended towering post presence with a newly forged perimeter game. His statistical line — 25.4 points, 9.8 rebounds and a marked increase in shooting efficiency — earned him the Sandhills Athletic Conference Player of the Year award and a spot on the NCISAA 2A All‑State team.
Caldwell’s journey was anything but linear. Once limited to just 3.1 rebounds per game as a sophomore, he transformed into a versatile athlete who now stretches the floor, handles the ball and finishes at the rim with equal confidence. The senior says his focus on refining ball‑handling and shooting range is driven by a dream of playing professionally, a goal that now feels within reach.
Beyond the numbers, Caldwell’s story is one of resilience. Coaches recall a player who embraced every challenge, from early‑season setbacks to late‑year injuries, using each obstacle as a catalyst for growth. His ability to adapt and lead on the court has made him a cornerstone of his team’s identity and a role model for younger teammates.
The All‑Star Roster That Shaped the Season
The 910Preps All‑Stars read like a who’s‑who of North Carolina’s next generation. Marcus McDuffie, the NCBA District 4 Player of the Year, posted 18.8 points, 9.5 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game, while Karsten Swinney exploded for 31.7 points per contest, becoming only the third player in state history to surpass 3,000 career points. Other standouts include Nick Smith, who contributed 14.8 points and 3.3 steals, and Mason Walker, whose 16.8 points and 7.2 rebounds anchored the frontcourt.
The depth of talent extended to players such as Bryce West, who averaged 26.9 points and 3.5 assists, and Jayvon Motta, whose 17.1 points and 2.2 steals per game highlighted a balanced attack. Each of these athletes brings a distinct skill set, from perimeter shooting to defensive tenacity, ensuring that the upcoming season will be shaped by a new wave of competitive fire.
As the high school season concludes, the spotlight remains on Caldwell and his peers as they prepare for the next chapter. Whether heading to college programs, seeking professional opportunities abroad, or simply continuing to hone their craft, the common thread is clear: a relentless pursuit of excellence that began on the courts of Fayetteville and now reverberates across the basketball landscape.