It is always tough for players when they have to miss significant time due to an injury.' It may push back their development, hinder their recruitment, and at times, players may never be able to get back to what they were before.

Other times, players come back stronger and even more focused than they were before; playing with something to prove.  2021 point guard Jamarii Thomas from Piedmont Classical is looking to do just that.

After watching him at the Phenom Hoops High School Jamboree Session I, Thomas looks ready to go in a big way this season and it certainly felt good to get back on the court with his team.

'Honestly, it felt good to be back on the court with the guys again,' Thomas said.  'Everybody is just now getting back into the system since we have been with our AAU teams.  We have a lot of talent and we have a deep roster.'

Thomas is focused and ready to prove all doubters wrong.' He gave us a little taste of his game this summer as he said but he may have more in the tank and he wants to let everyone know.

'My mindset as a player right now is to contribute to the team in any way possible,' he replied.  'I have a lot to prove.  In my opinion, I've been slept on for a long time and still am.  So, my mindset this season is to go at anybody in front of me.'

Thomas' game is fun to watch, as he is an athletic scoring point guard that can also get it done on the defensive end.  He brings grit, energy, and talent all to the floor when he plays, while also being a vocal leader for his team.  Thomas hasn't only impressed us in recent months but college coaches are now starting to catch on apparently.

'More mid-majors and a couple of high majors are starting to recruit me.  Schools like Virginia Tech, UNCG, New Mexico, Akron, etc. have all started to come in the mix. (They say) that I would be a good fit in their system and telling me to stay in the gym.'

Right now, Thomas holds an offer from Lees-McCrae so far and they continue to stay in touch with him often.  However, schools like UNCG, East Carolina, and Elon have been showing strong interest his way.

Everyone will get a chance to watch Thomas and Piedmont Classical at the Carmel Christian Tip-Off Classic in Charlotte and trust us, Thomas will be ready to showcase what he has this season.