As mentioned before in other articles, Phenom Hoops was posted up at the Myers Park Summer League, a 4-day event that brought several schools around the Charlotte area all under one roof and was live-streamed by The Hoop State Network.
Giving us an early glimpse into what some of the teams may look like next season, one team, in particular, could be in for a big year. JL Chambers, formerly known as Vance high school, was 4-3 last year but were missing several key pieces that will now be back on the court this upcoming season.
Why is that important'
Because the pieces that are returning, along with the development that players were able to make from last season, could be enough to give JL Chambers (Vance) one of their best seasons yet.
When you look at their roster, several names pop out immediately on this team. 2022 Daniel Sanford certainly is the first, coming off a junior campaign in which he averaged 21 points, 10 rebounds and should be once again a dominant force and a go-to option. Then you add back in 2023 Jaylen Curry, one of the more dynamic point guards in the country with his speed, scoring, and play-making ability. Add on top the return of Antoine Piper, a bruising 6’3 prospect that can help inside and out, these three should be a few of the leaders on the court.
But that doesn’t mean it stops there…
2023 Nick Dorn is a 6’3 shooter that has only gotten bigger and stronger, as well as developed his game into a name to watch for in a loaded 2023 class for NC. 2022 Corey Gaines returns again after averaging 10 points, 5.4 assists last year for Vance and should once again be another effective weapon on the court. 2022 6’0 Kendall Smith, another point guard, received valuable playing time last year and will provide depth in the rotation.
2024 Maurio Hanson is a young but rising big that should see starter minutes and be a huge help down low once again in scoring and on the boards, as he has worked hard on his body and frame to make an even bigger impact as a sophomore.
And I haven’t even mentioned players like 2022 6’5 Anthony Moore, 2023 6’5 Evan Ashemore, 2023 6’0 Amari Richardson, 2023 Jacoby Jackson, 2024 Jordan Patton, and 2022 James Pearce… when you add those players with the size and length that provides even more depth, JL Chambers is quickly looking like they will be a HUGE force in North Carolina this season.
With an impressive showing at the Myers Park Summer League, the expectations should be set high for JL Chambers and head coach Brian Frasier but the talent and pieces seem to be all there for them to make a run at a state title.