On Tuesday, Phenom Hoops traveled to Piedmont Classical in the heart of Greensboro, North Carolina for a special double-header showcase. The first contest gave us an opportunity to see some young prospects from Piedmont Classical and a variety of intriguing prospects from Combine Global. Although Combine Global is older and more experienced, Piedmont Classical made it a competitive battle through constant hustle and hard work on both ends of the floor. The gym was empty due to Covid restrictions, but these two teams still made for some enjoyable basketball.
Things kicked off in a sluggish, somewhat erratic manner for both squads, but Combine slowed down, found their footing, and began to effectively execute their offense. After mounting a 20-12 first-quarter lead, Combine looked in control of this contest. However, Piedmont Classical seemed determined to reassert themselves within the action throughout the second period of play. Just when it looked like Combine could run away with it, Piedmont Classical started forcing turnovers, pushing transition play, and capitalizing on offensive rebounds, which allowed them to enter halftime only trailing 36-32. After the break, the floodgates burst open. Combine Global simply began to dominate, posting a 24-4 third quarter (including a 17-2 run) and taking firm grasp of this game. The final quarter was more of the same, as both teams ended up clearing their benches in what would result in a 74-47 victory for Combine Global over Piedmont Classical JV.
Combine Global:
6’0 ’21 Payton Lewis
The point guard showed great balance and was arguably the most impressive performer for either team in this showing. Lewis is a reliable scoring option but also showed patience and a willingness to set up the offense to get others involved. He likely could’ve looked to score on every single possession and gotten off clean looks but seemed prepared to make the right play with consistency. Lewis shot the ball well, defended with purpose, and utilized his decisiveness and change of pace to get wherever he wanted with the ball in his hands. Final stats: 24 points, 2 assists, and 1 steal.
6’4 ’21 Nouhamadou Diallo
Though slightly undersized, Diallo was the most physically imposing interior player on the court from start to finish. He’s strong, sturdy, and displays a pretty intriguing approach for a post prospect. Diallo did a quality job of rebounding and finding ways to score, but his useful passing was arguably his most surprising attribute on display. He’s able to receive the entry pass, calmly survey the floor, and make his move with relative ease. Diallo also proved to be a defensive pest with great anticipation and overall timing around the basket. Final stats: 9 points, 13 rebounds 6 assists, 3 steals, and 1 block.
6’4 ’22 Ryan Ganniclefft
With his previous teammates being a floor general and interior piece, it’s only fitting that Ganniclefft shines as a fairly versatile threat from the wing. He always seems to be near the action and positioned properly to receive open looks from teammates. Ganniclefft rebounds well, handles the ball effectively in transition, and can finish or make the extra pass. He’s capable of affecting all facets of the game with the ability to place increased emphasis on whatever his coach requires. Final stats: 16 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals.
Piedmont Classical
6’0 ’24 Ja’el Lawson
Despite some struggles as a team (primarily in the second half), Piedmont Classical did an excellent job of fighting against quality competition. In many ways, Lawson stood out as a leader for this group. He didn’t need to do the flashy stuff in order to be effective and make a lasting impact. Lawson consistently utilized his high motor and nose for the ball to make hustle plays on both ends of the floor. He rebounded well, especially for his size, and looked to make the extra pass whenever possible. Lawson’s willingness to do the dirty work makes him very valuable to this team. Final stats:13 points and 8 rebounds.