At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned senior prospects. Last season, hundreds of players from North Carolina went on to play at the Division I, II, III or NAIA levels, and that number looks likely to continue increasing with the current senior class. Typically, we take a closer look at guys who are overlooked and underrated, and today’s edition will highlight Drew Watkins of Northwest Guilford.
We’ve seen Watkins countless times, including most recently during our Open Gym Tour, where we stated, “Though quite different from their other two seniors, Drew Watkins’ versatility and well-rounded identity should make him as valuable as anyone on the roster. He’s a tough, skilled forward prospect with inside-out ability on both ends of the floor. Given his size, vision, and scoring abilities, Watkins is arguably at his best when operating around the elbows. However, he’s also capable of spacing the floor, taking opponents off the bounce, or battling for opportunities inside the paint. Watkins is a useful rebounder and defender with a solid blend of IQ, athleticism, and adaptability. He runs the floor well in transition and has the necessary skill to push the break upon forcing turnovers or securing defensive rebounds. This team is simply better when he’s on the court, and that should become increasingly apparent to college coaches during the upcoming season.”
Since then, Watkins has only continued to be a vital part of the Vikings’ success. When he produces, the team is simply better. The lefty is excellent in the midrange area, but mobile enough to attack off the bounce or space the floor at a reliable percentage from beyond the arc. Watkins is a quality athlete with IQ, size, and nice two-way versatility, which makes him fairly adaptable to whatever is needed of him. He’s a great rebounder with toughness and the understanding of how to play hard on both ends of the floor. Watkins is a very useful all-around player who naturally finds ways to make his presence felt. He should appeal to various college coaches at the next level, as he will be a major part of this team over the next few months.