The second day of Phenom's Tip-Off Classic carried on with a star-studded matchup between Carolina Basketball Academy (GA) and Bull City Prep. CBA quickly jumped out to an early lead, mainly through forcing turnovers and capitalizing on fast-break opportunities. They ended the first quarter with a 16-9 advantage. However, Bull City awoke and began playing their regular brand of basketball. Subsequently, the change in approach led to securing the lead at 26-35 going into halftime. After the break, things became even more competitive between the two squads. Both teams amped up their offensive firepower, as Bull City retained their 48-54 lead entering the fourth quarter. The final period only led to more Bull City dominance from 6'8 '21 Deondre Watson with strong contributions from 6'7 '22 Treyvon Byrd and 6'3 '22 LJ Thomas. CBA did a great job of staying within fighting distance behind the play of 6'4 '20 Omar Gardner and 6'0 '21 Damani Claxton, but ultimately lost to Bull City by a score of 70-65.
6'8 '21 Deondre Watson (Bull City Prep)
After decommitting, one could argue that Watson has been even better than before on both sides of the ball. He's still showcasing a high motor and incredible amount of toughness, but also doing the little things very well. Watson is a great two-way rebounder with an understanding of how to properly utilize his length and positioning to outwork opponents. He runs the floor effectively in transition and can knock down perimeter jumpers at a solid rate, but is arguably at his best when operating out of the post. Watson offers touch, footwork, and athleticism around the basket, which would make him valuable for a variety of programs.
6'6 '21 Bryce Harris (Bull City Prep)
Despite being the newest addition to this roster, Harris had no issue finding ways to assert himself for this group. Between his motor, toughness, and two-way versatility, he proved to be extremely productive. Harris found ways to score the ball but made his strongest impact as a cutter, defender, and rebounder. He has the necessary skill to push the break in transition or run the floor and fill the lane. Harris operates very well within the team on either end of the floor and should carve out a quality role wherever he should end up at the next level.
6'0 '21 Damani Claxton (Carolina Basketball Academy)
Though somewhat unassuming in comparison to his teammates, Claxton is arguably as valuable as anyone on this CBA roster. He's a reliable shooting threat, especially in spot-up situations, but also slashes and moves very well without the ball. Claxton defends well for his size and contains his assignment nicely at the point of attack. He simply understands how to complement others while operating within his role. Claxton could benefit various different programs at the next level.
6'4 '20 Omar Gardner (Carolina Basketball Academy)
Although the Carolina Basketball Academy roster is loaded with talent, Gardner still seems to emerge as their leader on majority of occasions. He's a strong, physical, powerful athlete from the wing position. However, Gardner is very skilled and more than capable of dictating the offensive action as a clear focal point. He possesses great lift on his jumper, which allows him to torch opponents with his pull-up jumper from the midrange area. Gardner is extremely difficult to stop from attacking the basket and finishing above or through contact, due to toughness, athleticism, and body control. It's difficult to understand his lack of recruitment, as he would benefit various programs at the Division I level.
