Phenom Hoops continues to bring elite coverage before the season, as we are out and about covering teams, getting an early look at what programs will be bringing to the court this upcoming season.  One team that we were able to view recently was Hickory Christian Academy.  Here is what we saw on the floor, as things still may continue to shake up before the season.

When talking about Hickory Christian Academy, it looks like they will have a true rising star on the floor' and he is only in eighth grade.' 2027 LJ Smith is a name that you will want to jump on now if you haven't already, as he looks poised to make a name for himself early on.' Smith wasn't shy in showing his game, as he has a smooth feel, creates well for himself, has good size early on, and can be an effective/crafty scorer from multiple levels of the floor. For someone at his age, Smith was impressive in stepping up for his team; also made plays on the defensive end as well.

2023 Zavien Dillingham is another clear leader on the court, as the senior guard returns after leading the charge last year averaging 16.1 points per game.  He is a 5'10 point guard that can score and knock down shots, guards well, and has some good bounce to his game.  Expect him to be another big-time leader for this team once again.

2023 Tylan Ikard is one that may have to play big for them, as this is a team that doesn't bring a ton of size right now.  But he does a great job in using his body, being active, and showing he can battle down low but also step out and bring out the defense with his outside shot 2024 Keontay Perdue was able to flash as a player with his outside shooting, showing good range to his game, while 2023 Christian Henry and 2024 Jamaryon Jones both had bright spots on the court for their team. Henry returns from a season in which he averaged nearly nine points per game.

The Knights hope to build off a season in which they finished with an 8-12 overall record.