Front (L-R): S. Banks, R. Johnson, J. Williams, C. Henderson, T. Henderson, I. Smith, R. Smith

Back (L-R): S. Williams, J. Martin, F. Butler, K. Stewart, C. Coates, D. Naire, L. Carter, L. Lorenzano-White, Z. Muhammad-Gray, Z. Green, I. VanPetten, R. Harris Jr, K. Benson III, J. Hall, A Noble, T Sutton, manager, D Laws

The journey for four in a row takes a detour to the islands as the Panthers make their way down to the Classic. Imhotep Charter finished off a 29-3 campaign that reached the summit for the third year by winning the PIAA (Pennsylvania) Class 5A state championship once again last year.

This year’s team returns three junior starters in RJ Smith, Latief Lorenzano-White, and Zaahir Muhammad-Gray. Smith stands at just 5-9, but don’t let his height fool you as he runs the show with his vision and shot-making ability. Lorenzano-White lets his athleticism and effort talk on both ends of the floor while Muhammad-Gray uses his physicality and versatility to lead the Panthers.

Coming in as a sidekick to the trio, Zion Green steps up as the 20th-ranked sophomore in the country, according to ESPN. Carnell Henderson, one of three seniors on the team, does it all and will be counted on for his leadership as one of the captains. Kevin Benson III and Talasi Henderson will also have significant roles for Imhotep as they look to defend their state championship.