Why Josh Nickelberry was, and still should be, a five-star prospect

Back in early 2018, Josh Nickelberry was a top-50 prospect who grabbed an offer from Roy Williams and UNC, and also sparked interest from Coach K and Duke. Now, most scouting networks have him ranked somewhere in the 100s, a spot where he doesn’t belong. The former Oak Hill product now plays for Northwood Temple Academy, and he’s having an outstanding season.

In his first three games this season, Nickelberry has scored 41, 35, and in his most recent outing, 31 points. Whether it’s his shooting or his ability to run the floor, Nickelberry has been doing everything right. This weekend Nickelberry and his squad will face off with Isaiah Todd and Trinity Academy. Todd is a top-20 prospect in the 2020 class.

Listen, 75 points in two days isn’t something you see on the regular. Nickelberry did it, and he did it with ease. When talking to Nickelberry he stays humble and just continues to let his game do the talking. He doesn’t let the rankings get to him and then he comes out and scores 30+ on a constant basis.

Back in May, the 6’4 guard verbally committed to Chris Mack just over a month after his future coach got the job.

“Coach Mack has been recruiting me since I was freshman. I have complete trust in him and his vision for Louisville, I know he wants the best for me and will put me in situations where I can flourish,” Nickelberry said.

With Nickelberry officially being signed and staying with the vision of what Coach Mack is trying to achieve, you will see the dog in Josh all season long. With tough opponents ahead of him, we will see if Josh can keep up his excellent streak of 30+ point games.