Each and every time Phenom Hoop Report gets to report or sees a commitment from a player we have seen over the years, it is always a fantastic day. It is great to see players achieve their goal to play at the next level and it is such a great accomplishment for that player.
Here is the latest commitment.
Player: Connor Ballou
Class: 2022
Committed to: Bridgewater College
What Was Said by Phenom Hoops:
'Given his role from last season, one would naturally assume that Connor Ballou will return as a leader for this squad. Although he didn't shoot the ball at his normal percentage today, his value should be pretty obvious. Ballou is a very steady, balanced guard prospect with quality instincts as a playmaker and three-level scorer. His transition over the years from a spot-up threat to a well-rounded floor general has been something worth noting. Ballou is smart, unselfish, and probably somewhat overlooked at times due to his willingness to seek out the best available play rather than chase high-scoring totals. However, intelligent programs should be able to see his appeal at the next level. In addition to his well-rounded skill set, he's a reliable defender with natural instincts on both ends of the floor. Though he possesses a calm on-court demeanor, Ballou is a definite gamer and should continue receiving attention from various college coaches.' – Open Gym in 2021
'Widely regarded as a three-point specialist, Ballou knocked down a total of 44 three-pointers on solid efficiency last season. He proved to be one of the most reliable spot-up threats on the team but also showed flashes of being able to operate off the dribble and make plays for others decently well. Ballou moves well without the ball, plays conservatively on offense, and understands how to effectively disrupt his assignment on defense. He started in 29 games last season and will be their only returning starter. That being said, it should be fascinating to see his progression going into next season. Going from a shooter to a dynamic offensive threat is a tall task but one we've seen work fairly well at Northwest Guilford over the years.' – 2020
'Although he's far from the only appealing piece on this roster, Connor Ballou only continues to shine as a leader and overall catalyst for the Vikings. We've previously documented his transition from being a scoring off-guard to an efficient floor general, but it was even more impressive over the recent weekend. Ballou is very balanced with the ball in his hands, displaying IQ, vision, and a knack for scoring from all levels. He can create for himself or effectively operate alongside another primary ball-handler'given his abilities as a cutter and spot-up threat. Perhaps Ballou's steady nature is perplexing coaches, because he should have opportunities at the next level.' – 2021
