Last weekend, Phenom Hoops traveled out to the Rise Indoor Facility for our annual Memorial Day Classic. The event featured a variety of talented teams and prospects, appealing to numerous different levels of college coaches. Among those were the Charlotte Aces'who rolled throughout the two days and ultimately won the 17U Blue Championship. They were fairly balanced and featured multiple college prospects, although guys like Randall Pettus and Omarion Ferguson quietly stood out as the Aces' leadership core. Both players should be enticing to next-level coaches, so let's take a look at them separately…
In looking at Pettus, he's a well-rounded guard with the ability to produce with or without the ball in his hands'though he typically controls the action as the primary ball-handler. He's strong, smart, and showcased the ability to set up others while scoring the ball in a multitude of ways. Pettus consistently emerged whenever his team was in need of a bucket. However, he also stood out as a reliable defender, rebounder, and decision-maker. Pettus utilizes his sturdy frame to absorb contact when penetrating and finishing around the basket. It's easy to appreciate everything he does for this group.
Meanwhile, Ferguson is somewhat of a utility guy with the necessary size, length, and motor to cause problems for opponents. At a fluid 6-foot-6, he's able to cause problems with his defensive presence, rebounding instincts, and overall finishing ability. Ferguson can handle the ball within two dribbles and attack if needed, but typically works off his teammates. He battles well for extra possessions and second-chance opportunities, and runs the floor nicely in transition. Ferguson knows how to make hustle plays and play within himself on either side of the ball. His array of tools should be pretty appealing to college coaches. Expect this duo to continue warranting attention.
