The Phenom Hoop State Fall League has been tremendous, and we are heading into championship weekend. But there have been plenty of storylines and players that have grabbed my attention. Even though this list could go on a lot longer, here are the top players who have left their mark on me so far at the Fall League at the forwards/centers position.
2024 Makoi Mabor Marier (Gabby Mabor) (Gaston Christian): One of the top big men in the state, Mabor really showed flashes of his developing skillset along with his continued presence down in the paint. He brings great size at 6’11 and continues to be a strong force in the paint and on the boards. But what we noticed as well is his growth in looking to show his ability to step out and knock down shots as well. Mabor knows how to get it done on the court and brings a tremendous motor with him, which is why he continues to be one of the top big men in his class for 2024.
2024 Maurio Hanson (Chambers): Someone is going to get a nice steal with Hanson, as the 6’7 forward is highly skilled for his position and has a great feel for the game. The big man moves really well up and down the court, getting to his spots, showing a good feel with his back to the basket, but also has great lift and touch on his shot when stepping out. Really like his footwork and feel down low, as well as his vision in finding his teammates and battling on the defensive end. Hanson has been extremely consistent all throughout the Fall League.
2026 Mason Robinson (Orange): Robinson is one that we noted a while back when he was just starting; very raw at the time, he has now shown that his game and comfort level has continued to grow and develop. Robinson, who wears a size 18 shoe, looks bigger and stronger, but also has a lot more confidence in his game. He is showing more flashes of his presence on both sides of the ball, as well as being able to stretch the floor with his shot. He is one that could only continue to develop and get better, and more schools will certainly be noticing.
2025 Justice Mitchell (Clayton): Clayton has two very good forwards on their roster, but when I personally watched them, Andrew Grimes wasn’t available but have heard a lot of great things about his development and what he could be this year. But Mitchell has a chance to carve out more of a name for himself as well. Mobile, fluid, good presence and feel, and one that continues to add more to his game. Mitchell’s development could really give Clayton two strong options down low this year.
2025 Trent Steinour (Lake Norman): Steinour is a known name but he is also one that continues to impress us with the production he provides. And he solidified himself in Week 3 on this list, going for 27 points and showing just how dominant he can be at times. Getting stronger, understanding more how to operate in the paint, using his size well to his advantage… Steinour has the attention of college programs but could really elevate his stock even more with a strong year like what he has shown at the Fall League.
Notes:
2025 Cash McSweeney, 2025 Andrew Grimes, and 2024 Wyatt DeGraaf were all strong throughout the Fall League, but I personally wasn’t able to view them during my time