Ayden-Grifton’s Moses Tufts has started most of the season for the Chargers as a freshman. Photo by William ‘Bud’ Hardy / Neuse News

The Class of 2022 is starting to make an impact sooner rather than later.

In a North Carolina high school basketball freshman watch list comprised by the Kinston-based recruiting organization Bucketreel, 115 freshmen across the state were highlighted. Three members come from the Eastern Carolina 2A: Kinston’s Jeremy Dixon, Greene Central’s Dontavious Pettaway and Ayden-Grifton’s Moses Tufts.   

Of the trio, Tufts has seen the most playing time so far on the varsity level, breaking into the Chargers’ starting lineup. The 6-2 guard has made a solid impression and said he’s going to continue honing his craft.

“I work a lot outside of school,” Tufts said. “My teammates put me in good positions and Coach (John Moye) helps me get better with the group. As a freshman, I’m trying to develop more and help the team where I can.”

Dixon, a 6-4 wing player, has gotten more playing time as the season has progressed with a very deep Vikings team, who can have 12 players hit the court on any given night. Dixon said he appreciates being mentioned on the list, but knows there’s work to do.

“It feels good, but I know I’ve got to work harder,” Dixon said. “My goal is to start next year and I’ve got some time to work on my game. I’m just trusting the process.”

Pettaway, a 6-3 combo guard, hasn’t transitioned to varsity basketball yet, but has shined on the JV circuit, ready for his opportunity.

“I’ve just got to keep working hard and proving myself,” Pettaway said. “I’m just working on different stuff, mainly my jump shot.”

The talent in Eastern North Carolina extends beyond the list as Dontae Ellis can attest. The South Lenoir point guard moved up to varsity last month, showcasing strong court vision, handles and deep range.

“It’s been good trying to make the transition,” Ellis said. “There’s a lot more intensity at this level and the game’s faster, but I’ll be able to handle it.”

Ayden-Grifton’s Christian Sharouse got a taste of varsity play this year as well, scoring 11 in his debut against Kill Devil Hills First Flight Jan. 21. Although the point guard is back on the junior varsity roster, he said he’s optimistic about the future.

“It felt good getting a chance to move up and I’m going to keep working on being the best player I can be,” Sharouse said. “My goal is to get better every day.”

To view the entire Class of 2022 watch list in the state, visit https://bucketreel.com/2019/01/30/north-carolina-2022-watch-list/