This past weekend, Phenom Hoops traveled to Greensboro, North Carolina to host our annual spring camps, beginning with Jr. Phenom and then gradually easing our way into the prestigious NC Top 80. These Jr. Phenom camps might feature middle-school prospects, but many of North Carolina's stars have put their abilities on display in this very setting. We've seen guys like MJ Rice, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Zion Harmon, Jaden Springer, and Nick Farrar among many others before they've stepped on a high school campus. There was an abundance of talent in the gym on Saturday and this article will look at some personal favorites throughout the day.
5'10 '24 Jordan Vick (Wilson, NC)
Vick was the unanimous choice for Camp MVP and justifiably so, as he was truly unstoppable and showed the ability to dominate anyone in front of him. He's a seventh-grader with a phenomenal feel for the game and the necessary physical tools to get wherever he wants on the court. Vick scored the ball efficiently on all three levels and consistently displayed great craftiness when attacking the basket. He's incredibly poised and unselfish, but also works extremely hard on defense and was easily the most impressive shot-blocking guard in attendance. Vick has all the makings of a special two-way talent and should be a name that the Wilson area can start getting familiar with.
6'4 '23 William 'Dice' Royster (Greensboro, NC)
The post prospect was arguably the most impactful eighth-grader on display, as he reliably protected the rim, rebounded the ball, and ran the floor with purpose. Royster has a solid amount of perimeter skills and can take opposing big men off the dribble from the wing, but typically looks to operate from the elbows or low-block. He scored the ball effectively on offense and took advantage of his matchup by utilizing his strength on the interior, which led to numerous putbacks. Royster is already playing above the rim and rebounding the ball at a terrific rate, so it'll be interesting to see his continued development'both physically and in terms of skill.
5'10 '23 William Otto (Raleigh, NC)
Nearly a year and a half ago, some of our Phenom staff had the experience of coaching at our camps, which is when Otto first jumped on our radar. He ended up on my team and was simply fantastic throughout the day, consistently producing on the court and getting an absolutely glowing evaluation. Fast-forward to Saturday and Otto suddenly looks like he might be the future of Raleigh basketball. He was the most polished and reliable scorer on display, given his well-rounded skillset and ability to break down opponents off the dribble. Otto is a nice spot-up threat, but also creates extremely well for himself and others. He possesses an excellent feel for the game and will be especially problematic upon adding physical strength.
5'10 '23 Jason Hancock (Greensboro, NC)
Already enrolled at Greensboro Day, we had a brief viewing of the point guard prospect at our fall camp, but he suffered a wrist injury and was unable to continue. However, Hancock recovered, had a terrific school season (playing middle school and JV), and actually suited up this past weekend. He already possesses quality size and an impressive two-way feel for his age, which allows him to play with a calm demeanor and truly manipulate opponents in a variety of ways. Hancock is so smooth with the ball in his hands and effortlessly navigates through traffic. The lefty has a tight handle and sees the floor extremely well, allowing him to create for others whenever possible. Hancock is also crafty and capable of scoring on all three levels, leaving virtually no holes within his skillset. There's plenty to like here, considering his advanced IQ and skillset at this stage in his development process. Hancock is certainly one to tab for the near future.
5'0 '25 Drew Johnson (Durham, NC)
The most impressive sixth-grader in attendance was Johnson, and it wasn't close. We saw the point guard prospect show some extended flashes at our Queen City MS Showcase, but this was an opportunity for him to dominate. Johnson is smart, quick, and really decisive, which causes a ton of problems for opponents, as few guys are able to stay in front without fouling. He effortlessly enters the paint whenever he desires and is capable of making some truly brilliant passes/reads with the ball. Johnson has legitimate thirty-foot shooting range and is willing to let it fly when left alone. He is one of the best sixth-graders to come through our doors in quite some time, so remember his name and keep an eye on his continue progression.