IMPACT PLAYERS

1. SENIOR NICK SMITH, NORTH LITTLE ROCK, GUARD

The state’s top player will make an immediate impact as soon as he takes the floor for the first time in a North Little Rock uniform. The reigning Arkansas Democrat-Gazette All-Arkansas Preps Player of the Year averaged 25 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists last year is the unquestioned No. 1 option. He’ll be even better this season because he’s got another 5-star player (Kel’el Ware) with him, as well as college prospects Tyler Frederick, Corey Washington, Charles Maris among others.

2. SOPHOMORE ANNOR BOATENG, LITTLE ROCK CENTRAL, FORWARD

Freakishly athletic wing who can guard essentially any position on the court. He’s got offers from Arkansas, Memphis and Auburn just to name a few. He may be asked to do a little more with studs like Bryson Warren and C.J. Camper gone, but he’s plenty capable. The sophomore was a member of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette All-Arkansas Preps Underclassman team last season.

3. SENIOR LANDON GLASPER, FAYETTEVILLE, GUARD

There wasn’t a game last season where he didn’t play at an all-state level. His backcourt mate, C.J. Williams, is no longer there, but he’s far from a lone wolf. That added help should boost his play even more for a Fayetteville team that will be good. OTHERS TO KEEP AN EYE ON Khasen Robinson, Bryant; Will Liddell, Rogers; Micah Hill, Rogers Heritage; Denarion Whitmore, Fort Smith Northside