Breakout Performances – 2017
The great thing about Phenom Hoops events is it allows kids a chance to become known. Phenom Hoops always brings in the top talent, but it also gives a lot of local unknown talent the stage to step up and write their futures.
Here are some players who started their story this weekend from the second part of the 2017 class.
Henderson Lentz 6’4 Team F.L.Y.
(North Rowan HS NC)
Letnz has been a staple at the NC Phenom 150 camps, but it seems that everything is finally coming together for him. Lentz has great size for a guard, but also the lefty has unwavering confidence with his deep range beyond the arc. In this event, Lentz had multiple games of 6+ threes, including 8 made threes in the Championship game. Welcome to the stage, Henderson Lentz, you played your way here.
Keith Matthews 6’5 Carolina Wolves
(Blythewood HS SC)
This was our first real viewing of Matthews, and we walked away impressed. Matthews’ game is started on the defensive end, where he defended the ball and the passing lanes well. He was also a very active and engaged rebounder on both ends. Offensively Matthews has some tools. Right now he is best in transition, where he is able to stretch his legs and finish above the rim. Matthews is as raw a sushi right now, but as he continues to develop his ball skills and game IQ watch out.
Christiaan Jones 6’1 Carolina Wolves
(Cardinal Newman SC)
Jones is an alum of the NC Phenom 150 camps. He carries a great feel for basketball on his long 6’1” frame. He looks to be in the middle of a growth spurt, so a couple more inches may be there. He is a multiple level scorer, but also has great half court vision that allows him to get his team mates involved. As he continues to get stronger, Jones will be on that bursts on the scene late
Duane Moss 6’6 Upward Stars SE
(Carolina Forest HS SC)
Moss led the Horry County area in scoring this past year, with over 20 points per game as a sophomore. Moss, who’s dad is an assistant coach at Coastal Carolina, is a high IQ wing. He has sneaky athleticism and an ability to finish at multiple levels. In this event, Moss hovered right around 8-10 points in his games. His dad is about 6’9, so there are some expectations of more growth. As Moss continues to gain consistent confidence in himself, watch out.