One of the more underrated prospects in the state of North Carolina FINALLY got his first Division I offer and it could just be the start. 2022 6'6 Nolan Hodge, who played this summer with the NC Gaters, consistently produced time after time on the court this summer with his scoring ability and has earned the attention of college coaches, one of which that recently offered.
He showed his game at the Phenom LIVE in Spartanburg, where Jeff Bendel had this to say:
'At 6-foot-6 with IQ, athleticism, and a smooth all-around game, he should be one of the most coveted assets within the region. He's a high-level shooter with excellent vision and the ability to reliably operate off the bounce against any type of defender. Hodge is a walking mismatch simply due to his incredibly high level of skill and overall offensive versatility. He can legitimately run an offense or operate without the ball and still shine as the focal point. Hodge continually mixes it up and actively scores the ball on all three levels with great efficiency. His toughness and assertiveness at hunting for his own shot seem to improve each time he takes the court. Unlike most players, the team benefits so much more when Hodge is looking to dominate rather than taking advantage of his opportunities within the flow of the offense. He's unselfish and more than capable of setting up others, but can also anchor the scoring load for various different styles of play.'
Now, Hodge can officially say that he has his first Division I offer, as Duquesne sent one his way. Phenom Hoops was able to get in touch shortly after he announced the offer and he couldn't have been more excited about the opportunity.
PHR: What was it like to get that first Division I offer'
Hodge: There really are not any words to describe it. It's a feeling like no other. This would not have been possible without my coaches, teammates, and trainers.
PHR: What did the coaches say to you when they offered'
Hodge: Coach McFadden called and said he and the coaching staff was impressed and that they will call me again sometime this week.
PHR: What did they say when they offered' What do they like about your game'
Hodge: They basically just said it short and simple, you have an offer. They talked about the smoothness in my game.
PHR: What has the work been like to get where you are now today'
Hodge: You know, I've always been impatient to get an offer but I think it has worked out the way it was supposed to. From when I first started taking basketball seriously in 7th grade to now, it has been a long journey. My game has improved so much and I'm just blessed to be in the position I am right now.
PHR: What other schools have been expressing interest your way'
Hodge: Davidson, Old Dominion, and Appalachian State.
PHR: What have they been saying your way in general'
Hodge: Mostly just excited to start the recruiting process with me and to see where it leads.
