On Monday, Phenom Hoops traveled out to Kernersville, North Carolina for a highly competitive, inner-conference battle between the Villains of Bishop McGuinness and the visiting Winston-Salem Prep Phoenix. Given their respective records and the head-to-head matchup, this was an absolutely must-win contest for the Villains. On the other side, Coach Abdul Pittman has done a truly incredible job at taking this once dynasty and quickly reviving the entire program. Not only is his influence visible through their game plan and overall success this season, but it's also evident through the players. Between Coach Thompson, Coach Pittman, and the consistent rivalry between these two squads, we knew to expect an exciting contest'

Both teams came out of the gate with purpose and immediately jumped into a back-and-forth battle. For the most part, the Villains controlled the pace in the opening quarter and established a 15-11 lead. Very little changed in the second period, as both squads continued to apply pressure through their balanced offensive game plan. After numerous lead changes, the Phoenix trailed 29-28 at halftime. Following the break, Bishop McGuinness set the tone and maintained their lead for the next few minutes. However, Winston-Salem Prep began controlling the offensive glass and subsequently took over shortly thereafter and finished the third quarter with a 44-41 advantage. The score still remained close, as the winner would ultimately be determined by who was better in the closing minutes. Despite a few ill-advised shots in the last minute, Winston-Salem Prep held on and won 59-53 over Bishop McGuiness.

Winston-Salem Prep:

6'1 '23 Jamison Graves
Although it would be difficult to point directly at the Phoenix's 'best' player (due to having so much balance within their structure), they simply aren't in this game without Graves' massive offensive output. He's a tough, quick guard prospect with the ability to create for himself or find opportunities as an off-ball threat. Graves scored in a variety of ways, from attacking the basket to hitting pull-up jumpers to knocking down shots off the catch. He proved to be an effective ball-handler and understands how to make a consistent impact defensively. Graves stood out as a definite leader and difference-maker for this group. Final stats: 23 points, 6 rebounds, 3 steals, and 1 block.

6'3 '23 Areon Matthews

Rebounding is such a vital part of winning in high school basketball, which only solidifies Matthews and his on-court value. Though folks might not remember the name, he possesses a lot of similarities to Rashud Alston as an undersized, yet incredibly productive interior piece. Matthews really embraces playing hard, pursuing every possible rebound, and only looking to apply scoring pressure on second-chance opportunities. His tough, rugged, active, blue-collar presence makes him such a clear asset on both ends of the floor. Final stats: 15 points and 12 rebounds. 

6'1 25 Yohance Connor 

In watching this team perform, it's easy to see why folks have been buzzing about Connor and his production as a freshman. Although he's skilled, scrappy, and well-rounded, it's his IQ that currently separates him from others in his age group. Connor can reliably make plays for himself or others with the ball in his hands, but also seamlessly makes his presence felt as an off-ball threat. He simply knows how to place himself around the action and naturally find production within the flow of the game. Connor displayed the ability to score from all levels, but also understands how to mix it up and keep the opposition guessing. Given his IQ and overall movements (especially at a young age), folks should expect him to be a very useful player over the foreseeable future. Final stats: 12 points, 11 rebounds, and 2 steals.

5'10 '23 Jay Penn

Each player's understanding of their respective role is what makes this group such a well-oiled machine, and Penn embraces his identity as well as anyone. Though slightly undersized, he's extremely quick and possesses brilliant playmaking instincts. Penn is always looking to set up open/cutting teammates with sharp, timely passes, and tends to do so with amazing poise and confidence. Penn really doesn't look to score, nor does he need to. His vision and willingness to deliberately create for others makes him undeniably vital. Final stats: 3 points, 2 rebounds, 11 assists, and 2 steals. 

Bishop McGuinness:

6'2 '24 John Campbell

Though it's been said for quite a while, folks should definitely start to recognize Campbell as the next notable prospect to come through this program. It was an up-and-down showing for the young guard, but he still managed to score with efficiency while showing a ton of appealing flashes. He's already clearly talented, but it'll be very exciting to track his continued development over the coming years. Final stats: 18 points and 4 rebounds. 

6'5 '22 Dawson McAlhany

Similar to his teammate above, it wasn't McAlhany's best showing of the season, but he's still an obvious player at the next level. He does a great job of getting downhill and applying pressure as a finisher, but also finds ways to score through traffic and tight spaces inside the paint. McAlhany makes his presence felt as a defender and rebounder, and is capable of scoring in numerous ways. He also passes the ball well and looks to set the tone as a leader on either end of the floor. Final stats: 12 points, 11 reboundds, 2 assists, and 1 block.

Other Notable Contributors:

6'2 '23 Andrew Schrage- 8 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal

5'9 '23 Riggs Handy- 6 points, 2 assists

6'5 '23 Rio O'Hale- 6 points, 3 rebounds, 1 block, 1 steal 

6'6 '24 Cal Barrett- 3 points, 3 rebounds