There’s no secret about the overwhelming amount of talent in North Carolina’s Class of 2024, and how many are regarding it as the best prospect grouping since 2016 (with Dennis Smith, Harry Giles, Bam Adebayo, Jay Huff, Grant Williams, Ky Bowman, etc.). Obviously, a lot of attention is being placed amongst guys like Paul McNeil, Isaiah Evans, and various others, but it seems like not enough folks are monitoring Derrick “DJ” Benbow and everything he’s done in the last calendar year. Even when putting his current high school production aside, the inevitable breakout should’ve already been apparent to those within the grassroots scene.
Going back to last spring, Benbow clearly possessed the makings of an enticing guard prospect. The tools were glaringly evident. Between his skillset and physical attributes, he found no issue asserting himself within the flow of the action—despite sometimes being overshadowed by his other notable teammates. Regardless, Benbow kept his head down and continued to work in relative silence. He proved to be a staple of consistency for Team Loaded throughout the following months. While it might sound somewhat cliché, Benbow legitimately got better with each viewing. It was time to take the next step.
Only a few months later, Benbow would have the opportunity to showcase his abilities against other top prospects in the Class of 2024 at the prestigious CP3 Rising Stars Camp. Although his class was supposed to debut at the camp a year earlier, Covid largely prevented anything from occurring. Even despite the delay in competition, Benbow still seemed ready and determined to prove himself amongst his peers. Although it can be difficult to shine in a camp setting, his tough, rugged, up-tempo mentality allowed him to enjoy a quality showing across the weekend.
Given everything since April, the expectations were set pretty high for Benbow going into his first season at Living Water Christian. Though it might sound bizarre, he’s actually been better than previously advertised. Benbow is posting ridiculous statistical totals while setting the tone as a primary leader on a game-to-game basis. The Warriors’ 16-4 record should only speak to his all-around production. While they probably haven’t played an “elite” schedule, Benbow has arguably performed better in bigger, more intense games. His nightly averages of 23.2 PPG, 3.3 RPG, and 1.2 SPG with 52/34/62 only further echoes his value to this group. Benbow’s per-game scoring actually accounts for 34% of the entire team’s points. Add in the fact that he’s posted more 30-point games (five) than single-digit performances (one), and folks should probably be more aware of the guard prospect.
In terms of his on-court identity, Benbow is a strong, athletic 6-foot-2 backcourt piece who has shown the ability to play with or without the ball in his hands. He’s an aggressive penetrator who generates space through solid craftiness and a sharp change of pace. Benbow can finish through contact, above the rim, or with finesse. He’s a nice perimeter shooter, especially off the catch, but also understands how to attack closeouts at a consistent rate. Benbow can create for others and displays useful passing instincts, but is still developing as a true playmaker. He provides a quality defensive presence and can make an impact on the glass as needed. While he should only get better over the coming years, Benbow is already very deserving of attention.