On Thursday, Phenom Hoops traveled to Winston-Salem to watch Calvary Day and Burlington Christian kick off the high school season. Both teams lost players leading up to this contest (Nate Keegan, Josiah Spillman injured for Calvary; Isaiah Smith transferred to Florida) but there was still a lot of talent on the floor. The Cougars largely controlled the first half, leading 19-17 in the opening quarter and 39-31 heading into halftime. However, the Royals emerged following the break and completely took over in the third quarter. Going into the final period up 56-48, Burlington Christian finished the job and secured a 72-66 victory over Calvary Day.
BCA:
6’9 ’27 Charles Pur
Stats don’t always necessarily tell the full story, but they do in this instance. Against an opponent with minimal size, Pur did exactly what was expected and dominated on both ends of the floor. Between controlling the glass as a rebounder, altering shots defensively, and finishing around the basket, he was constantly involved in the action. Pur is a highly skilled offensive player whose blend of feel, shooting, and ball skills naturally causes problems for opponents. He scored within the paint and knocked down several midrange jumpers. Pur is very creative on offense and will regularly attempt shots that other big men could not fathom trying. He possesses an impressive combination of length, fluidity, motor, and instincts—particularly for his size. Pur protected the rim extremely well and although he didn’t tally a ton of blocks, he altered countless shots. He also has a clear willingness to get involved in every rebounding battle. Pur’s body still needs to develop, but it’s easy to appreciate his skillset, physical tools, and overall maturity. Expect him to continue trending upward. Final stats: 26 points, 20 rebounds, 3 steals, and 1 block.
6’2 ’27 Karon Watlington
Arguably no one has benefitted more from the roster shakeup than Watlington, who immediately took advantage of his role as a primary option. He applied consistent pressure as a penetrator, where he showed the ability to finish, get to the line, or set up others. Watlington knocked down multiple jumpers, made defensive plays, and secured rebounds at a solid rate. He dictated the action with poise and made smart decisions with the ball in his hands. Final stats: 19 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals.
6’6 ’25 Ian Bush
In terms of leadership, it was easy to appreciate Bush everything brought to this team. He’s a long, physical athlete with great size and toughness. Bush didn’t knock down jumpers at his usual rate, but still finished well around the basket and secured several second-chance opportunities. He offered consistent effort on the glass and made hustle plays with frequency. Bush is clearly a next-level player and someone who should be a focal point for this group over the coming months. Final stats: 17 points and 9 rebounds.
CDS:
6’1 ’26 Owen Calvert
It was difficult to be anything other than impressed with Calvert. He was simply phenomenal at scoring the ball from all levels. Although he applied nonstop scoring pressure, Calvert did a great job of dictating the action and creating clean looks for others. His efficiency and leadership by example were evident from start to finish. Calvert also stood out through his motor and usual amount of defensive peskiness. He’s a true gamer and real problem for opponents. Final stats: 32 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 steals.
6’4 ’26 Dane Cassada
Despite somewhat of a slow start, Cassada still found a lot of success in this contest. He controlled the offense, generated shots for himself and others, and scored in a variety of ways. Cassada is still recovering from an injury but got to his spots, played well through contact, and converted when needed. He provided consistent effort defensively and rebounded effectively for his size. Cassada will remain a leader for this group going forward. Final stats: 20 points, 7 rebounds, and 1 steal.