The Upward Stars Combine was a sensational event, and we at Phenom Hoops want to thank all the staff there for allowing us to check out the talent. Many players from North and South Carolina were on deck, and we got a great refreshing view of players as well as learn about a few new names as well.
2025 Lamont Britt Jr (Gray Collegiate): Britt is an interesting player with his strong, football frame but also his ability to make plays on the court. He uses his strength in bullying opponents and getting downhill, finishing strong through opponents, but also is useful from the outside in making plays off the dribble, knocking down shots, and has a strong ability to score the ball effectively.
2025 DaRon Dunbar (North Augusta): I really like what Dunbar brings to the table; he is one that has a smooth feel to his game and can be an efficient weapon on the court. He is a 6’4 prospect who can score in a variety of ways, knock down shots with his jumper, finish strong around the basket, and has a really good overall presence and feel on the court.
2024 Caden Kreger (PVHS): Kreger continues to be a player that has size and can hurt you in a variety of ways. The 6’7 prospect can be a threat from outside, as he gets to his spots well and has an extremely quick release to along with a confident shot. But he also has a fluid skill set that allows him to battle inside as well. Whether it is from behind the arc or his mid-range game, he can hit shots with a ton of confidence, as well as possessing a nice blend of size, ball skills, and rebounding ability.
2027 Aaden Bruton-Smith (Greenville): Here is a new name that grabbed my attention as a young prospect, and I’m interested in seeing what he could ultimately be. But when I watched him, he is a long, young guard that has a smooth release from multiple levels, is confident from behind the arc, and is one that isn’t afraid to make plays. He is still very young and should only continue to develop, but I would keep an eye on this young man.