STAY POSITIVE CLASSIC EVENT RECAPS
Bendel’s Best: Lamelo Ball Invitational
This past weekend, Phenom Hoops traveled to the Rock Hill Sports and Events Center to host our partnered event with 1 of 1 Elite—the Lamelo Ball Invitational. The event was loaded with talent and noteworthy matchups, which subsequently generated a lot of buzz throughout the Carolinas. Between the three days, there were a healthy variety of standout prospects. This article will take a closer look...
read more
Reece’s Standouts: Lamelo Ball Invitational (Day 3)
by: Ethan Reece 2026 Josh Hines (CC Elite)The leadership qualities Hines is showing at a young age are astounding and ultimately make him appear varsity ready because of his profound maturity. There’s no replacement to the versatility he provides as an avid defender, sizable rebounder across positions, and adaptable offensive piece. He is a strong driver but doesn’t need to dominate the...
read more
POB’s Eye Catchers from Day 3 at LaMelo Ball Invitational
2024 Brandon Jennings (Team PUSH VA): Jennings was strong all game long to start the day on Day 3. The long-framed guard blended his game very well, whether it was creating and getting in the paint to finish or stepping out to knock down some key shots from outside. Really liked his balance on the floor, picking his spots to be aggressive and finish strong through contact or get to...
read more
Player Standouts at Day Three of Lamelo Ball Invitational
5’10 ’26 Max Van Weerdihuzen (Team United) Although there were a ton of standouts for this loaded squad, Weerdihuzen consistently found ways to stand out within the flow of the action. He’s a very intelligent point guard prospect with an extremely low-maintenance identity. Weerdihuzen typically works with the ball in his hands, setting up others and constantly looking to make the right play, but...
read more
Reece’s Standouts: Lamelo Ball Invitational (Day 2)
by: Ethan Reece 2025 Korvontae Hatter (Loyalty United)You better be ready to play traveling up from Orlando, FL and Loyalty United has brought it so far this weekend. Hatter stands out as a tone setting leader for this team with a rugged approach that maximizes what his build can do. Similar to how a Ford Mustang has a lot of horsepower yet also a smooth drive, Hatter has the frame to play bully...
read more
Dawkins’ Standouts from LaMelo Ball Invitational (Day 2)
By; DeAjai Dawkins 6’6 2023 Walker Woodall (Wildcats Elite 17U) Woodall is a player I’ve seen make his presence felt this summer alongside his Jordan High School teammates. Woodall can take control of a game through his perimeter shooting and overall intelligence. He’s a competitor that should be tagged alongside the perimeter at all times. Standing at a strong 6’6, Woodall contributes heavily...
read more
POB’s Eye Catchers from LaMelo Ball Invitational (Day 2, Part 2)
2024 Quay Watson (Elite 1): Watson continues to be a guard that should be looked at in the class of 2024, especially with his leadership, his playmaking, and his ability to create. Not only did he hit the game-winning three (a big-time shot), but he also showed his ability to create off the dribble, find his teammates well, and step up in big moments for his team. 2024 Maurio Hanson (CP3):...
read more
Player Standouts at Day Two of Lamelo Ball Invitational
5’8 ’24 Jeremiah Benthall (Big Business Ballerz) Though slightly undersized, it’s easy to appreciate how much Benthall does as a leader for this group. He’s a smart, unselfish, passer-friendly point guard prospect with an understanding of how to run a team and locate the best available shot on seemingly every possession. Benthall handles the ball with care, passes to the open man, and scores the...
read more
POB’s Eye Catchers from LaMelo Ball Invitational (Day 2, Part 1)
2025 Melvin Teal Jr. (SHOTS United): Teal continues to impress and is a young player to watch out for in South Carolina. He sports a strong frame and really love his activity level on either end. On Day 2 early, he was able to play with tremendous energy, showing he can make an impact on the defensive end but also be a strong finisher and get to the basket. 2022 Devon Slagle (NLPB 2022 Best):...
read more
Reece’s Standouts: Lamelo Ball Invitational (Day 1)
by: Ethan Reece 2024 Jake Weckerle (Charlotte Royals)We would have a lot more productive post in today’s game if they all understood how key their positioning on the court is like Jake. A long consistent finisher that got to his spots early and held his ground, he’s a reliable presence to have in your frontcourt as he protects the ball with his length, doesn’t waste time making his moves, plays...
read more
Dawkins’ Standouts from LaMelo Ball Invitational (Day 1)
By: DeAjai Dawkins 2025 6’5 D’arrae Goodwin (WV Gold 2025) My favorite prospect of the evening, D’arrae Goodwin shows a ton of upside as a shot-making wing that can currently take on 3-5 defensive assignments as a rising sophomore. Toned frame with a bit of length, Goodwin shoots a smooth 3-ball both contested & uncontested. I believe Goodwin would be respected amongst the more coveted NC...
read more
POB’s Eye Catchers from Lamelo Ball Invitational (Day 1)
2025 Yohance Connor (1of1 Elite): Team 1 of 1 is loaded with talent but on Day 1, Connor was assertive and showcased his presence on both ends of the court. He displayed tremendous activity on the defensive end, getting after it, playing scrappy, and also understands how to create and capitalize on his own opportunities, scoring-wise. Continues to get downhill and finish. 2025 LJ Britt...
read more
Player Standouts at Lamelo Ball Invitational
6’9 ’25 Trent Steinour (Carolina Heights) Although this roster is loaded, it’s easy to see the value that Steinour brought to the table. His presence as a long, fluid, skilled post prospect allows him to reliably rebound, alter shots, and run the floor properly in transition. Steinour doesn’t require the ball or many touches to make a quality two-way impact. He understands how to produce within...
read more
LaMelo Ball Invitational Teams – July 1-3 (Rock Hill/Indian Trail)
July is coming and that just means one of the top events in the country will be kicking off the month in a big way, as the LaMelo Ball Invitational in Rock Hill and Indian Trail will be the place to be at this weekend. We have a ton of teams and talent coming through the door that you will not want to miss! Just check out the list of teams on display. DivTeam9UAttack365 20319UTeam Heat Elite...
read more