2024 Jayden Pretty (Carolina Pressure): Pretty was consistent all week long in Rock Hill, as the 6’6 prospect from Carolina Pressure really opened eyes in how big of a difference-maker he could be. It seemed like the forward had his hands in everything, finding ways to get his hands on the ball, always moving well without the ball, displaying a tremendous motor in the paint and on the boards, and had the ability to finish or space the floor offensively. He was efficient on the court in every game and with his balance of fluidity, skill, and production, Pretty should be looked at more.
2024 Kaiden White (North Florida Elite): White was one of my favorite players watching throughout the week and a new one that I will be monitoring more down the road. The 2024 guard from Florida hasn’t seen much in his recruitment yet but that could change, especially with what he showed at the event. Many programs need shooters and White showed just that, consistently knocking down multiple shots from outside in each game but he also mixed it up with his ability to create off the dribble. He has good handles and change of direction, finding ways to get around defenders and getting into the paint as well. One to really start looking at more.
2024 Justin Ray (Upward Stars Fagan): Ray has been a known name on the Phenom Hoops platform but it was great to get an updated viewing of the guard from South Carolina. If you want to learn more about his game, you can check out this player spotlight article (Click Here). But Ray is a player that I think more college programs could use, especially in how he can be used. He is a smart guard that can create and make plays for others, but also understands how to get to his spots for his shot. He has tremendous lift with his jumper and can knock down mid-range shots but also be a 3-point shot-maker. Ray though can make plays with or without the ball in his hands and makes great decisions in finding his teammates.
2024 Delani Hammonds (Team Synergy): Hammonds should be a name that has the spotlight more on him, as the point guard has only elevated his game and showing more of what he provides on the floor this summer. Hammonds is a quick, gritty point guard that just makes plays when the ball is in his hands. He can handle pressure, break down defenses, can use his speed to get inside the paint, and really does a great job in being unselfish in setting up his teammates but also not afraid to make plays for himself. He is the spoon that stirs the drink and is one of those leaders you want on the floor.
2024 Keenan Wilkins (Charlotte Royals): Wilkins put on a show each time he stepped on the court and on a few occasions, he showed you that he isn’t afraid to step up in the bright lights when the game is on the line. Wilkins though is one of the quickest guards and one of the best smaller guards that can create for himself, scoring around defenders well, finishing through contact, and being a multi-level scorer. He can absolutely fill it up and what stood out the most from this young man is that he isn’t afraid to step up and take the big shot when his team needs him to.
2024 Tyler Showalter (Team HOPE): It has been good to see the growth of 6’6 Showalter over the last year, as he has taken steps in his game. Rick Lewis even said that he has seen his stock rise and is only getting better and better. He is being more assertive as a player and understanding at his size and skill set, he has the ability to rise over defenders and knock down shots, but he is only adding levels to his game. Showalter is a high IQ, makes smart decisions, has a fluid shot, and can make his impact in other areas of the game as well.