At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned senior prospects. Last season, over a hundred 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 under-recruited, and today’s edition will highlight JP Peterkin of Mount Tabor High School.
We’ve watched Peterkin steadily grow since arriving at Mount Tabor, recently stating, “The more offensive firepower has become valued, the less we see rugged, high-motor defenders with a desire to wreak havoc. However, JP Peterkin is going against the grain. Although 5-foot-10, he is a game-changing defender with the blend of instincts, quickness, physicality, and toughness to cause a ton of problems for opponents. JP possesses a scrappy nature, nonstop motor, and willingness to make hustle plays at a constant rate. His ability to eliminate operating space, mirror his assignment, and suffocate opponents without fouling allows him to force turnovers at an insane rate. Moreover, JP has shown a lot of improvement as an all-around offensive threat. He can reliably initiate the offense, attack the basket, and hit jumpers at a respectable clip. JP is an excellent athlete with feel and the ability to play bigger than his size, specifically as a defender and rebounder. He’s simply the type of guy coaches would prefer to go with than against.”
It’s difficult to say anything other than positives about a guy who has clearly been a major difference-maker for a highly successful Spartans squad. They currently have a 21-1 record, and Peterkin’s involvement as one of only two seniors has been quite visible. For starters, he’s easily among the most intense, rugged defensive players in the state—regardless of size or position. Peterkin offers an exceptional blend of quickness, toughness, and sharp anticipation instincts. He knows how to mirror opponents and suffocate opposing guards into simply handing the ball over. Though somewhat undersized, Peterkin offers a truly game-changing presence on the defensive end of the floor. That being said, he’s also made clear strides as an offensive threat. Peterkin is a nice playmaker with a lightning-quick first step and the ability to attack the basket or apply pressure in the midrange. He doesn’t look to do too much or play outside of his ability, and that’s part of what makes him so easy to appreciate. The two-sport athlete would be an asset for a variety of different programs.