On Thursday, Phenom Hoops returned to the Charlotte Skill Factory Media Day for another evening of drills and scrimmage action. The boys kicked off their practice session by going through, drills, fundamental development, and scrimmaging. Let’s check out a few of the standouts from the practice…
2028 Gavin Jones
In a gym full of new faces, Gavin Jones was easily the most enticing long-term prospect on display. At 6-foot-3, he’s already a long, fluid athlete with nice feel and a developing skillset. Jones appeared comfortable applying scoring pressure around the basket, but also highlighted solid shooting mechanics and great instincts for the ball. He utilized his length and motor to make plays defensively and secure rebounds on both ends of the floor. Jones is certainly still progressing, but he could easily be a name worth noting going forward.
2027 Trevon Spencer
Although he wasn’t necessarily the most polished player in attendance, Trevon Spencer easily stood out as one of the hardest workers. He played with a nonstop motor and full-throttle approach from start to finish. Whether working in a drill or competing in a scrimmage, Spencer left everything on the court. He battles for loose balls, rebounds, and simply exudes energy. Spencer has a strong physique, but can continue to develop his skillset and general feel over the coming years.
2027 Jacob Pietrafesa
Similar to the entry above, Jacob Pietrafesa found ways to stand out through his high motor and blue-collar approach. He’s somewhat of a utility guy who can competently pass, dribble, and score around the basket. Pietrafesa moves well without the ball, rebounds well for his size, and runs the floor hard in transition. His effort and intensity will take him a long way as he continues to develop.
2026 Grier Phillips
Given his status as one of the older kids in attendance, Grier Phillips showed flashes of dominance. He’s strong and polished, which allows him to effortlessly attack the basket and play off two feet or simply finish through contact. Phillips is great in the midrange and displayed great passing instincts when getting downhill. He regularly burdened the scoring load for lengthy stretches, but didn’t look to do too much with the ball in his hands.
2028 Hunter Blythe
Despite being the smallest player listed, Hunter Blythe displayed a nice level of poise as a ball-handler and overall floor general. He was effective at initiating the offense and attacking the basket, but also stood out with his scrappy defensive presence. Blythe forced multiple turnovers at the point of attack and led the break in transition. He’s a willing passer and quality finisher around the basket.
2027 Landen Gordon
Rounding out this group, Landen Gordon highlighted some intriguing tools throughout the practice. He possesses nice size, length, and activity on both ends of the floor. Gordon competes well within the flow of the action and understands when to assert himself versus when to defer to others. He will be one to watch develop going forward.