With all the trips we have been making during our Phenom Open Gym Tour, it has shed some light on a few players that have been going under the radar and should be ones to watch this season with their play. Coaches could certainly use players like these in their program to help their winning ways. Here is Part 1 of the series, as these players will play pivotal parts for their team.
2023 Derek Bradley (Westminster Catawba)
Bradley is an intriguing prospect helping lead the charge at Westminster Catawba. He is a strong-bodied guard that excels in taking contact, getting into the paint, and finishing well around the basket or knocking down shots from outside. He will be a key part of the offensive attack alongside MJ Collins, as he has the ability to get others involved while also finding ways to capitalize on his own scoring opportunities. With a few recent changes on the roster, Bradley has a chance to really step up even more with this team.
2022 Kai Evans (Combine Post Grad)
Evans caught some eyes with his play during the open gym. A new name in North Carolina, Evans simply competes. You can see that he already has the trust of his coaches and loves to get after it on both ends. Loved what I saw defensively from this 6’4, strong-bodied guard that looked to lock down defenders and create havoc. Offensively, he was able to get to his spots but also use that same strong feel to fight through contact. He holds a few D1 offers already but there are other programs that could use a guy like this on their team.
2022 Antonio Hamlin (Combine Academy)
For a team loaded with big-time talent almost everywhere you look, Hamlin is the one that gets looked over at times. I’m here to say that that shouldn’t be the case. Yes, he provides depth as a point guard for this team but this is a strong guard that knocked down tough shot after tough shot and isn’t afraid of stepping up when needed. Combine is loaded at the guard position but I have a strong feeling that Hamlin is going to be a key piece and leader for this team in critical times.
2022 Logan Threatt (Carmel Christian)
It will be interesting to see what Threatt will be able to provide to his new team at Carmel Christian, especially with their style of play. His quickness on the court, his ability to create, and his leadership will all be valuable assets to this team. Threatt uses his speed to his advantage, whether it is helping run the show, creating for himself, attacking the paint, or getting after it on defense and helping it lead to transition points. He competes on the floor and knows how to make plays.