"Elite Shooter with Bounce, Grit, and a Takeover Mentality"

Charles McCarthy

@Cha_McCarthy80

IG: @c_mccarthynew

6'0, 175lbs, Class of 2027

Houston Academy, Dothan, AL

Charles is a sharp-shooting guard with bounce, defensive bite, and a work ethic that doesn’t clock out. Known for his three-point accuracy and explosive athleticism, Charles can catch fire from deep and elevate with a 40-inch vertical to finish above the rim or clean the glass. He’s an elite-level shooter with nonstop energy, and he brings that same intensity to defense, harassing ball handlers, jumping passing lanes, and setting the tone early with his hustle. Whether it’s raining threes, skying for rebounds, or diving on loose balls, he impacts the game beyond the box score.

Last season, Charles came off the bench but still knocked down around 30 threes in just 17 games, showing off his consistent range. He also played a key role in helping Houston Academy reach the Class 3A Alabama Final Four, stepping up with key defensive stops, energy plays, and big-time shot-making. The football team's deep postseason run delayed the start of the basketball season, but Charles stayed ready, stayed focused, and still delivered when his number was called. His defensive speed and aggressiveness were his biggest improvements, and he’s continued to work on developing his ball-handling under pressure to become even more versatile.

While he didn’t play AAU this offseason, it wasn’t due to lack of dedication, but he spent the summer gaining 10 pounds of muscle, grinding in the weight room, and evolving his all-around game. He’s not just playing basketball but sold out for it. Morning, afternoon, and night, he’s training, learning, and pushing himself to the edge. And it’s all to be ready for what’s coming. With a large senior class now gone, Charles is stepping into a leadership role and fully embracing the responsibility to score, lead, and carry his team forward.

Coaches should know with Charles they’re getting a player who defends like every possession is the last, hits shots with confidence, and lifts team morale through energy and encouragement. He thrives on momentum, getting fired up when a teammate hits a big three or comes up with a clutch steal. And when facing adversity, he resets with a deep breath, blocks out the noise, and focuses on the next right play.

His game is built on toughness, consistency, and faith. Off the court, he’s grounded in his beliefs, reading his Bible, working hard in school, and pouring everything he has into becoming the best version of himself. The best coaching advice he’s ever received is, “If you can see the orange on the rim, shoot it.” That kind of confidence has molded him into the knockdown specialist he is today.

I assess that Charles brings tremendous value as a high-percentage shooter, effort-based defender, and leader by example. He plays with confidence, intensity, and focus, and his improved physicality has made him more dangerous on both ends. His competitive edge and dedication to his craft make him a player that elevates those around him.

With added strength, improved skills, and a growing leadership role, Charles is poised to become one of the key players for his team this upcoming season. Expect a breakout season ahead with more scoring, more impact, and more moments where he shows exactly what he’s been building behind the scenes. Stay tuned.