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: Emanuel Richards
Class: 2023
Committed to: Longwood

What Was Said by Phenom Hoops:

'The North Carolina grassroots landscape underwent some changes last year, including the coaching (and roster) change at Christ School'who now has Richards as their clear leader. After transferring, the downhill wing prospect immediately started to see his recruitment explode during the June Live Period. The flurry of offers makes sense, as the strong, rugged, athletic Richards is an absolute nightmare for opponents to try and contain'especially if they aren't built like grown men. He's a versatile defender, quality rebounder, and capable creator for himself or others. Richards can knock down perimeter jumpers if needed, but understands how to impose his will as a penetrator and finisher.'

'Richards led the charge on Day 2 for Christ School, really giving us more of a glance of his improved overall game. Yes, he still plays with that physical game that he has in the past, embracing contact and finishing but also showing more of his pull-up game.  He can be really effective from multiple levels on the floor, and it is easy to see why more schools are coming his way.'

'He's a smart, team-first wing prospect with a well-rounded skillset and the ability to do a strong amount of everything on the court. Richards has a high motor and looks to create havoc however possible on either end of the floor. He actively mixes it up on offense and scores the ball very efficiently from all three levels. Richards is a useful defender that provides excellent energy from start to finish. Next in his development process is working on his ability to contain the point of attack, as it would make him a more complete player. Coach Pope on Richards: 'Emmanuel is a glue-guy. He plays very hard and doesn't make a lot of mistakes. He's a little raw but, with some sharpening of his offensive skillset, can become a high-production guy on both ends of the floor.' Richards simply knows how to make his presence felt and will be a prospect to watch at Blythewood going forward, as he has plenty of upside remaining.' ' 2019

'Although he's new to North Carolina, folks should already know about Emanuel Richards between his time with Blythewood and Upward Stars. He's a prime example of someone who quickly saw benefits from reclassifying, receiving offers from USC Upstate, Presbyterian, NC A&T, and Western Carolina immediately following the NCISAA live period. Richards already looks more than comfortable operating as a primary cog for the new-look Christ School (led by Coach Josh Coley), showing toughness, initiation skills, and naturally causing mismatches for opposing wings. He's excellent at getting downhill for finishes or pulling-up from midrange, but also highlighted consistency from beyond the arc over the summer. Add in his defense, rebounding presence, and unique identity, and Richards should be incredibly productive for the Greenies.'