Phenom Hoops travelled to Cary, North Carolina to cover Panther Creek open gym. Coach Shawan Robinson is considered one of the top coaches in the NCHAA. Last season, Panther Creek finished with a 23-8 record losing to Weddington in the NCHSAA 4A State Championship. When you think of Panther Creek, the first word that pops up is 'balance.' It's a total team effort for Panther Creek where everyone chips in to the overall success. It was a team where no one averaged over 12 points per game, but eight players averaged between 4-11.5 points per game. Panther Creek is led by 6'4 senior Amari Odom, who returns, however Coach Robinson will lost 6'2 Jordan Snell (10.8 PPG), 6'7 Tyler Thompson (9.1 PPG), and 6'8 James Day (8.5 PPG). Panther Creek will rely heavily on Amari Odom (11.5 PPG) 6'0 junior Chris Uwayo , 6'2 senior David Tator (4.9 PPG), 6'3 senior RaShaun Robinson, and 6'6 senior Caleb Surgers (3.6 PPG) will all bring valuable experience, and throw in newcomer Amari Richardson, you have a strong nucleus for yet another strong playoff run.
6'4 '23 Amari Odom
While Odom is out with an injury, it's no secret Odom will be the heart and soul for Panther Creek. Last season, Odom averaged 11.5 PPG and 5.0 APG. Once he returns from his injury, expect him to set the tone on both ends of the court, especially with his playmaking ability and court vision.
6'7 '23 Caleb Surgers
Expect Surgers to have a strong senior season. He is a strong and athletic forward who can guard multiple position. Surgers excels getting downhill where he can finish above the rim with either hand. He is very active on the glass and sports a high motor.
5'11 '23 Amari Richardson
Newcomer to North Carolina, Richardson has a smooth release. He is quick, shifty playmaker that can play either guard position that has a really good pace off ball screens. He has a quick first steps and puts tremendous pressure on the opposing defender with his ability to get into the paint making plays for himself and his teammates.
6'2 '23 David Tator
Tator is a nice all around players. He is another versatile guard that brings effort and energy to the court. Tator has the ability to knock down shots behind the arch, as well as makes plays off the bounce. HE just does all the little things that are needed for a team to be successful on the court.
6'0 '24 Chris Uwayo
Uwayo will be able to step up and have an even bigger impact this season. At open gym, he showcase his ability to make shots in rhythm from the 3-point line in addition to his ability to create off the bounce and make plays downhill.
6'8 '24 Greg Ehlinger
Ehlinger will provide added interior presence on the defensive end. He's a mobile forward with the ability to stretch the floor.
6'7 '24 Logan Ware
Ware is another versatile forward who can really space the floor with his shooting ability. He is also active on the glass creating second chance opportunities.