Vote: Midlands Columbia Preseason Boys Basketball Player of the Year

Here are six nominees for your voting consideration

Robert "DJ" Wylie is a rim-rattling combo guard in the Class of 2027 at Ridge View High School and one of our nominees for Midlands Columbia Boys Basketball Preseason Player of the Year. / Mike Vision

Get ready to make your preseason predictions! The Midlands metro area, covering Columbia and beyond, is home to some top basketball talent, and we’re showcasing the best of the best. Vote now for the player you believe is set to dominate the area this season. Which of these standout athletes will be crowned “Top Dog” in the region?

Below, you’ll find detailed profiles of each player—each with their own accolades, skills, and immense potential. Read through, see who stands out, and make your call on who has the highest ceiling in the Midlands this year. And remember, don’t forget to cast your vote.

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High School on SI voting polls are intended to be a fun way to create fan engagement and express support for your favorite high school athletes and teams. Unless expressly noted, there are no awards for winning the voting. Our primary focus is to highlight the abilities and accomplishments of all the athletes and teams included in our poll. You can vote as often as you wish and are encouraged to share our polls with others. The use of voting bots and other forms of automated voting are not allowed. Individuals will be removed from the poll if any form of automated voting can be verified. - SBLive Sports

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Voting closes at 11:59 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30. Here are the nominees:

2027 6’4” Robert “DJ” Wylie, Ridge View High School

Robert “DJ” Wylie, a rising 6’4” combo guard from Ridge View, has made a name for himself with his smooth scoring touch and court vision. He’s got that mix of size, feel for the game, and instinct that allows him to be a scoring threat and a playmaker. Known for his high basketball IQ, Wylie has a knack for reading defenses and making quick adjustments, which puts him a step ahead on the floor. So far, his standout performances have earned him early offers from Nicholls State, Queens, Jacksonville, and Miles College.

2026 6’4” Korie Corbett, Ridge View High School

Korie Corbett, a talented 6’4” guard from Ridge View’s 2026 class, has gained attention for his explosiveness and strong defensive skills. His natural athleticism allows him to attack off the dribble and confidently finish at the rim. Corbett’s mid-range shot is solid, and his quick lateral movement makes him a tough defender, often forcing turnovers. Colleges are already taking note, with offers from Bethune-Cookman and South Carolina State on the table.

2026 6’0” Yale Davis, Ridge View High School

Yale Davis, a skilled 6’0” guard in Ridge View’s 2026 class, is known for his deadly shooting and strong ball-handling. His quick release and sharp court awareness help him find scoring angles even against tight defenses. Davis can drive and create his own shot, making him a go-to scoring option for Ridge View. His impressive skill set has earned him offers from Nicholls State and Francis Marion.

2026 6’8” Elton Smith, Cardinal Newman

Elton Smith, a versatile 6’8” forward out of Cardinal Newman, has become a major interior presence. Smith’s rebounding and shot-blocking instincts make him a strong force in the paint. Offensively, he has the footwork and finishing ability to capitalize around the rim, while defensively, his length allows him to disrupt shots. His talent has led to offers from Queens University and Radford.

2025 6’7” Brian Sumpter, Keenan High School

Brian Sumpter, a 6’7” forward from Keenan High School’s 2025 class, shows a well-rounded game on both ends. Equally comfortable finishing inside or stretching defenses with his jumper, Sumpter’s offensive versatility makes him tough to guard. His instincts on the boards and ability to defend multiple positions make him even more valuable. Sumpter’s dedication to his game has earned him a spot at Wofford College.

2025 6’4” Kaleb Evans, Lexington High School

Kaleb Evans, a hardworking 6’4” guard from Lexington High School, plays with high energy and determination. Known for his quickness and intensity, Evans’s ability to drive aggressively, finish through contact, and play relentless defense has made him a standout. His athleticism and skill set have drawn offers from Winthrop, South Carolina State, Jacksonville, and Charleston.