A few years back, Phenom Hoops was able to sit down and watch 6'10 Khayre Cayne, as he was a big figure for the Juice All-Stars. He certainly made his presence known then and seems to be doing just the same today, as the big man continues to show off his ability to be an elite rim protector.
Back in 2019 when we had a chance to watch Cayne in action, Phenom Hoops had things like this to say about the young man and his game:
'Cayne wasn't only the best shot-blocker in the entire event, he might be the best shot-blocker in the entire state of North Carolina. His ability to protect the rim and finish possessions with his rebounding was integral to the Juice All-Stars success this weekend. He showed that he's one of the most important pieces on what in all likelihood is the best independent program in the state of North Carolina. His ability to finish at the rim while also showing the capability of knocking down catch and shoot perimeter jumpers out to the three-point line make Cayne that much more tantalizing as a prospect.'
'The long, wiry post prospect has arguably been the most impressive rim protector on display throughout the weekend. He has impeccable timing and does a phenomenal job of altering/blocking shots without fouling. Cayne moves very well for his size and should be able to continue adding strength over the next few years. He should be an absolute lock for the Division I level, so it'll be interesting to see what programs begin pursuing him.'
And though it has taken some time, it seems that coaches are starting to catch on.
Earns first D1 offer
Cayne’s journey has been an exciting one but also has been one that he has had to work for. He first made a trip to Hutchinson CC then went to USC Salkehatchie. Now, it seems that he has a chance to play D1 basketball.
'It has been going well right now,' Cayne told Phenom Hoops when asked how everything has been going. 'We are getting ready to win and win the conference. I've just been in the lab. I've been working on my jumper and my inside game, trying to be a versatile big.'
'It has been good, you got to get everything out of the mud here, so we have been going to the gym all the time and it is just me and my head coach and assistant; we are in there every day working,' Cayne continued about his time at USC-Salk.
Cayne feels like his game has certainly elevated since those times with Juice-All Stars. He wanted to show everyone the new Cayne on the floor, continuing to be that big-time shot-blocker down in the paint but also stepping out offensively as well.
Coaches are taking notice of that, especially with his ability to be a rim protector. Cayne was able to earn his first D1 offer from Stetson, one that he is certainly excited about.
'I was happy and excited,' he said. 'I just knew one was coming soon and the coach called my phone and said that I reminded him of Hassan Whiteside and that they love my defensive presence.' That phone call came shortly after the jamboree he and his team were at.
But it may not be his last offer that he receives, as Cayne mentioned that schools like FIU, Samford, and IUPUI have also expressed interest his way. 'I feel like IUPUI has high interest in me and the rest, I feel like are going to offer when the season starts.'
