This past weekend, Phenom Hoops returned to the travel ball scene with another exciting grassroots event. We were stationed at the new Rise Indoor Facility in Advance, North Carolina, which already seems more than likely to become a major basketball hub over the foreseeable future. The combination of atmosphere and overall talent led to a ton of standouts, competitive battles, and general buzz for the upcoming summer season. With so many college coaches still inquiring about unsigned seniors, we figured it would be advantageous to form a list of the top performers from the Class of 2021. Let's look…
6'4 Elijah Thomas (Sheed Wallace Select)
Anyone in attendance surely caught a glimpse of the tough, high-flying display put on by Elijah Thomas and Sheed Wallace Select. Leadership comes in various different forms for this group, and Thomas consistently provided a rugged, defensive, blue-collar presence with an extremely high motor. He's a powerful athlete with the ability to finish above the rim or through copious amounts of contact. Thomas is a versatile defender, rebounds very well, and is skilled enough to push the break or attack the basket. There's a definite place at the next level for him.
6'4 Jalen Thorns (Team Howard)
After a very productive senior season for East Forsyth, Jalen Thorns' limited list of college opportunities is somewhat surprising. Not only did he stand out as a nightly leader, but Thorns' combination of size, athleticism, and defensive versatility also held clear value. He utilizes his length and motor effectively to force turnovers or outwork opposing wing/forwards for rebounds on a consistent basis. Thorns makes his presence regularly felt in transition, and understands how to fill the lane without the ball in his hands. His ability to be a useful cog within a quality two-way program should continue to translate going forward.
6'5 Lureon Walker (NC Wildcats)
After putting together extended stretches of undeniable production, Lureon Walker should start seeing an uptick in his overall recruitment. Although his high school statistics leave a little to be desired, numerous college coaches who've watched him this season have walked away impressed. The captivation is certainly warranted, as a prospect widely unknown to college coaches is basically lacing up and putting on effortless twenty or thirty-point scoring displays on a regular basis. Walker is a heady cutter and useful perimeter shooter, but arguably at his best when attacking in transition or turning forced turnovers into fast-break opportunities. He's a long, wiry, athletic wing prospect with anticipation and a nice two-way feel for the game. Walker should end up in the college ranks.
6'2 Travon Jones (Mint Hill Lakers)
While productivity comes naturally for most of the guys on this list, Travon Jones is someone who shows a consistent willingness to take a lesser role for the betterment of his team. His tough, rugged, unselfish two-way mentality allows him to make a ton of plays for this Mint Hill Lakers group. Jones defends, rebounds, battles on every possession, and can assume secondary ball-handling duties as needed. He's a useful scoring option and capable passer, but doesn't necessarily require the ball in his hands to make an impact. Though it might not be particularly 'sexy,' Jones' ability to embrace his identity and maximize his role should warrant college attention.
5'11 Nathan Fuller (NC Spartans)
Although we could choose multiple guys from within the NC Spartans program, it feels like Nathan Fuller isn't receiving enough notice for his constant all-around impact. He operates in a very low-maintenance role on both ends of the floor, typically finding ways to make plays defensively, set up others, and score within the flow of the action. Fuller displays a high motor and looks to do the dirty work whenever possible. He makes smart decisions with the ball, doesn't force the action, and outworks his assignment in all facets of the game. Fuller could certainly be a contributor for a variety of college programs.