Given the fact that July is right around the corner, it feels like no better time to start introducing some of the players that college coaches should be monitoring. Going into the busiest recruiting month of the year, our Summer Havoc should be a hotbed for coaches and players alike. As usual, Phenom Hoops will have prospects of all levels in attendance. This series will continue by taking a closer look at Delani Hammonds of Ardrey Kell and Team Synergy.
We’ve watched Hammonds throughout his growth, previously stating, “Given the departure of another primary ball-handler (in Evan Smith), Hammonds should have no issue completely taking over the reigns as the sole playmaker for Ardrey Kell. He already led the Knights in assists last season, but folks shouldn’t be surprised if his numbers legitimately double this year. Hammonds is a smart, sharp point guard prospect with vision, quickness, and a tight handle. He gets wherever he wants on the floor, but understands how to effectively run a team with poise and patience. Hammonds touches the paint at a high volume and finishes or sets up teammates for scoring opportunities. He’s also a very pesky defender who establishes the tone on both ends of the floor. Expect Hammonds’ recruitment to trend upward.”
In all honesty, it’s surprising that more scholarship-level programs haven’t already gotten involved with the two-way floor general. Hammonds is getting overlooked despite his poise, leadership, and sheer consistency as a playmaker. He’s excellent at utilizing his quickness and tight handle to break down opponents, touch the paint, and finish through contact or make the correct pass to an open teammate. Hammonds sees the entire floor at all times and has a knack for locating others from highly difficult angles or positions. He’s a capable shooter, but clearly at his best when pushing the pace and getting downhill. Hammonds also defends his position extremely well at the point of attack. He displays sharp instincts for forcing turnovers and makes consistently smart decisions with the ball in transition. There’s already so much to like, especially upon realizing he’s the type of player who makes others better. His recruitment will inevitably take off sooner than later. College coaches can watch Hammonds at our Summer Havoc Live on July 6-7.