This past weekend, Phenom Hoops traveled to the Sportsplex in Greensboro, North Carolina for the annual CP3 Rising Stars Camp. Typically, this event is exclusively for rising freshmen but the unforeseen circumstances over the last year prevented the Class of 2024 from the occasion. Instead of excising the class completely, they opted to combine the two classes into one enormous event. The amount of sheer talent was almost overwhelming. We watched 2024s extensively on Saturday, which gave us a pretty strong viewing of most prospects within North Carolina. This series be multiple parts. Let’s take a closer look…
6’4 Kobe George (The Burlington School)
It would be extremely difficult for anyone who watched Kobe George to walk away feeling anything other than impressed. He had an incredible showing at camp, and was later honored with an All-Star selection as a direct result. George’s phenomenal combination of IQ, defense, toughness, and leadership has become somewhat of a commonality. However, he becomes nearly unstoppable when hitting perimeter jumpers at a high clip—which is exactly what occurred during camp. George still maintained his status as a rugged, pesky, physically overwhelming piece, but also shined in basically every possible way as an offensive catalyst. His blend of size, skill, and athleticism makes him naturally productive, but his general court presence is what separates him from similar prospects. Expect George to have a very productive upcoming season for the Spartans, and attract attention from Division I coaches throughout the process.
6’6 Drake Powell (Northwood)
Although nearly every prospect from North Carolina made a lasting impression at camp, Drake Powell was arguably the most tantalizing performer. It’s fair to say that most people within the grassroots scene already acknowledge Powell as a noteworthy name, but he still feels largely underrated to the masses. It felt like there was a ton of attention on his teammates’ departures (Jarin Stevenson and Zion Collins), but he might benefit more than anyone involved. Powell’s transition into “the guy” has been somewhat seamless over the recent months, which was clearly evidenced by his showing over the weekend. Everyone should already know about his elite defensive instincts and versatility, but Powell truly showcased a complete offensive arsenal as the leader of his team. He hit shots from all levels, displayed legitimate playmaking ability, and consistently made intelligent, unselfish decisions with the ball in his hands. When a premier defender doubles as a high-level offensive threat, something special is liking in the making. Powell should be monitored by all types of Division I programs, and should see his recruitment blow up sooner than later.
6’5 Bryson Cokley (Christ School)
Although expectations are high for each of these listed prospects, there is already a ton of anticipation for Bryson Cokley to become a star and priority for various programs. The appeal should be fairly obvious with a fluid, skilled, athletic 6-foot-5 wing prospect with the complete skillset and physical tools to shine in every type of matchup. Cokley is an absolute offensive weapon with IQ, creation skills, and smooth shot-making ability from all levels. He’s a quality athlete with the blend of strength, quickness, and explosion to consistently overwhelm opponents. That being said, Cokley also regularly stood out with his defense, rebounding, and overall willingness to make the right decision. It’s extremely difficult to envision a long-term scenario where he isn’t among the top prospects in North Carolina.
6’5 Lewis Walker (Winston-Salem Christian)
Production is one of the most self-explanatory parts of basketball, which is a massive reason why Lewis Walker is such a commodity within the high school scene. Everyone loves Walker, and they should, as he consistently dominates opponents in every type of setting. As a strong, sturdy, extremely skilled 6-foot-5 wing/forward, Walker is a true matchup problem. He’s way too skilled and mobile for most forwards, but also far too strong and physical for any wing opponent. Walker is a brilliant passer, reliable finisher, consistent shooting threat, and strong rebounder with the ability to push the break in transition and make plays with the ball in his hands. While there is so much to like about his game, Walker’s IQ might be his most remarkable attribute. He’s simply a winner, and the type of adaptable asset that every coach could utilize.
6’2 Zion Walker (The Burlington School)
In all honesty, no one should be surprised by the steady emergence of Zion Walker over the last few years. His advanced abilities were clear at an early age, dating back to his days as a middle-school prospect. Walker has always been tougher and physically stronger than majority of players his age, but he’s also made strides as a creator and shot-maker. He could be regularly seen dictating the action as a floor general, setting up others, and generating clean looks for himself as needed. Walker accessed and converted midrange jumpers with relative ease, but also hit three-pointers and displayed excellent body control when attacking the basket. He defended with purpose, rebounded well for his size/position, and had no issue leading the charge throughout camp. Like his year-round teammate, expect Walker to continue making noise heading into his sophomore season for the Spartans.