Phenom Hoops reviewed the tape from Thursday's game between Caldwell Academy and Oak Ridge Military Academy, checking in on a few players we have our eyes on but also learning about a few others. Oak Ridge came out firing and built a double-digit lead early in the first few minutes, but Caldwell started to settle down with its starters and eventually was able to take the lead back by the end of the first quarter, 17-14. The trio of J3 Swindell, Neal Swindell, and Jaylen Cross led the way for much of the game, as the offense continued to click but Oak Ridge used a balanced attack to stay right there, as Caldwell led 35-27 at halftime.
Coming out into the second half, Caldwell stayed aggressive with five different players scoring the ball led by Neal Swindell and Cross. It is what allowed them to increase their lead to double-digits and lead 54-37. Though Jaysarr Williamson and Riggs Handy shot the ball well in the second half, it wasn't enough to secure the win, as Caldwell Academy walked away with a 76-63 victory.
Final: Caldwell Academy 76 – Oak Ridge Military Academy 63
Stats:
CA: J3 Swindell 17pts/ Neal Swindell 16pts/ Jaylen Cross 18pts
OR: Jaysarr Williamson 12pts/ Riggs Handy 15pts/ Taky Prosper 13pts
Thoughts:
- 2025 Jaylen Cross (Caldwell) continues to showcase his talent and why he is going to be a hot target for many schools. Cross can really do so much on the court for his team, making high IQ passes, setting up his teammates, creating his own shot, getting downhill and finishing, showcasing tremendous athleticism, and score from all levels of the court. Really love his game and feel, and more schools will be coming his way quickly.
- It was great to see 2024 J3 Swindell and 2026 Neal Swindell again, as the brother duo led the charge in different ways. J3's shot-making has certainly improved, showing tremendous confidence from outside behind the arc, but also being able to create inside the arc. Neal is such a strong prospect and is able to really get inside the defense/paint and find ways to finish around the basket. Tough, bruising prospect.
- Watching Oak Ridge, 2024 Jaysarr Williamson caught my attention as the 6'7 prospect really impressed with his ability to stretch the court and knock down shots over defenders. Confident shooter with a smooth release. I also really liked 2024 6'7 Taky Prosper; though raw in some areas, this is a young man that competed, was active on the boards, created second-chance points, battled down in the paint, and provided flashes of his upside. A name to certainly jot down and watch more.