Fayetteville State 7v7 Top Performers

What began as a rain-soaked morning turned into one of the most competitive events of the summer at Fayetteville State University. Weather delays pushed the start back a few hours, but once the action began, teams from across North and South Carolina put on a show. With college coaches evaluating talent and a championship on the line, athletes took the field determined to make the most of every opportunity.    Isaiah Hillary was the top quarterback at the Fayetteville State University 7v7 Tournament, leading his team to a championship and a perfect 6-0 record. Hillary threw 15 touchdowns without an interception, showcasing poise, patience, and complete command of the offense throughout the event. He never appeared rattled, even in high-pressure moments, and consistently played with great tempo and decision-making. While his deep-ball accuracy stood out, it was his intermediate passing game that was most impressive, delivering catchable throws with precision and timing. Keep an eye on Hillary this fall as he returns to a traditionally run-heavy Jacksonville offense that could be poised to open things up through the air.     [player_tooltip player_id='1084981' first='Karvin' last='Magwood'] was named the Overall Tournament MVP after a dominant performance that fueled OTS's championship run on both sides of the ball. The New Bern standout was a matchup nightmare all weekend, making plays as a runner, receiver, and defender. Offensively, Magwood did damage between the tackles and on the perimeter, turning short catches into explosive 30-plus-yard gains while also winning contested jump balls downfield. Defensively, he proved to be a lockdown presence, consistently shutting down opposing playmakers. His outstanding performance did not go unnoticed, as Magwood earned a scholarship offer during the tournament, capping off an MVP-worthy weekend.     Tyrez McLean made a huge name for himself during the tournament and established himself as one of the top receivers in attendance. In just five games, McLean hauled in well over 20 receptions and found the end zone nine times. His exceptional hands and polished route running allowed him to consistently create separation at the top of his routes, while his ability to find soft spots in coverage made him a quarterback's best friend. Though not the biggest prospect on the field, McLean may have had the biggest impact at his position, producing explosive plays and moving the chains seemingly every time the ball came his way.     [player_tooltip player_id='1089277' first='Rylan' last='Copeland'] proved to be the go-to receiver for OTS throughout their championship run. The rising junior from New Bern consistently delivered in key moments with his phenomenal route-running ability and knack for making plays when his team needed them most. Copeland has reliable hands, seemingly catching everything thrown his way, and his ability to create separation made him a difficult matchup all tournament long. With his production, consistency, and playmaking ability, don't overlook Copeland heading into this season—he's a prospect who is poised for a breakout year.     [player_tooltip player_id='2045391' first='Ouziyiah' last='Reaves'] (2028 ATH) from Seventy-First High School put together one of the most impressive performances of the tournament on both sides of the ball, but it was his play at nickel that earned him recognition as the Top Defensive Prospect. Reaves made an immediate impact, opening the day with a pick-six in his very first game and never slowing down from there. By the end of the tournament, he had totaled five interceptions, returning two of them for touchdowns. His instincts, ball skills, and ability to make game-changing plays were unmatched, making him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks and one of the biggest breakout stars of the event.     Exzavier Isaac (2028 LB) from Scotland County earned Top Linebacker honors after a standout performance throughout the tournament. Isaac showcased his athleticism and versatility in coverage, highlighted by an interception returned for a touchdown and several pass breakups. What separates Isaac is his movement skills—he runs and changes direction like a slot receiver or running back, making him a rare athlete at the linebacker position. His ability to cover ground, make plays on the football, and impact the game in space was evident all day. As he continues to develop, Isaac has all the tools to become one of the premier defensive prospects in North Carolina's 2028 class.     Zayrn McNeil earned Top Safety honors after a spectacular showing throughout the tournament. The Scotland County standout displayed elite range, instincts, and ball skills, highlighted by an incredible diving interception that brought everyone on the sideline to their feet. McNeil is a phenomenal athlete who can truly fly, covering ground with ease and making plays all over the field. Beyond his athletic ability, he was one of the most vocal defenders at the event, consistently communicating and leading from the secondary. With his combination of speed, playmaking ability, and leadership, McNeil proved he is one of the top young defensive backs to watch in the Carolinas.     [player_tooltip player_id='2134407' first='Jamarien' last='Graham'] (2028 ATH) from James Kenan High School earned Top Two-Way Player honors after an outstanding performance on both sides of the ball. Graham played every snap of all six games and never seemed to slow down. Defensively, he did not allow a single reception while consistently locking down opposing receivers. On offense, he found the end zone multiple times and proved to be a dynamic playmaker whenever the ball was in his hands.   An elite athlete with exceptional versatility, Graham showcased skills that many may not get to see during the fall. James Kenan has traditionally been a run-heavy program in a run-heavy region, limiting opportunities for athletes to display their full skill set in space. This tournament allowed Graham to put his athleticism, coverage ability, and playmaking talent on full display, and he took full advantage of the opportunity. He is undoubtedly one of the top rising prospects to watch in the Class of 2028.

What began as a rain-soaked morning turned into one of the most competitive events of the summer at Fayetteville State University. Weather delays pushed the start back a few hours, but once the action began, teams from across North and South Carolina put on a show. With college coaches evaluating talent and a championship on the line, athletes took the field determined to make the most of every opportunity.