This past weekend, Phenom Hoops hosted our annual Coach Rick’s TOC, which featured a ton of intriguing teams and prospects throughout the two-day event. Although we will look at several different programs and individuals who generated buzz, it would be difficult to ignore everything the Winston-Salem Christian group showcased. Despite being without numerous key pieces (like Lewis Walker), they were as impressive as any group on display. Their roster is loaded with intriguing next-level talent and that certainly includes Chol Machot—who is currently trending as a high-major prospect. Let’s take a closer look…
Given his elite size, incredible length, and excellent mobility, it’s easy to see what separates Machot from other big men. Offensively, he’s actually quite skilled. Machot is a great finisher around the basket and above the rim, showing the ability to utilize both hands and his insane length to his advantage. He’s a useful screener with an understanding of how to properly roll or pop out and apply pressure as a perimeter shooter. Machot already displays a smooth, confident shooting stroke from beyond the arc and hits jumpers at a terrific rate for his size/position. On the other end, he displays quality timing as a rebounder and rim-protector. His presence alone is enough to deter opponents from even attempting to attack the basket. Machot runs the floor properly in transition and knows how to fill the lane. Although he does much more, Machot is genuinely capable of excelling as a pure rim-runner.
The big man has started to steadily blow up over the recent months, but it seems like his recruitment is bound to take another leap going forward. His overall appeal should be obvious to the masses. Programs like Sam Houston State, Bethune-Cookman, San Jose State, Jacksonville State, Missouri, TCU, VCU, and High Point have all extended offers. However, don’t be surprised when his list of scholarships doubles or even triples by the end of this upcoming high school season.