Phenom Hoops continues to hit the road, getting an early glance of teams around the state of North Carolina and the region before the upcoming high school season. Monday night, Patrick O'Brien went out to Westminster Catawba to check in on some well-known talent and a few new names. Last year, Westminster finished with a 16-3 overall record and making a run in the playoffs before coming up short. Now, they look to make another run at a state title and bring in some intriguing firepower with them.
You first start with the leader of this group coming into the season, as 2022 MJ Collins looks to have big aspirations for himself and for his team this year. Collins looks to be a vocal leader and has only elevated his game this summer, now taking that into the season with his length, his shot-making, and athleticism.
Westminster also added two other impressive guards in 2022 Will Kelly, who is a high IQ, crafty shot-maker that should only provide the team another shot-maker on the court. They also added 2023 Derek Bradley, a strong point guard that sees the floor well, gets downhill, and can make plays for his teammates, while also being another go-to scorer when needed. That doesn't even mention 2022 Richard Black III and his ability to put points up on the board, as it seems that Westminster will have several guards that can make things happen for this team.
They may not have a ton of size on the floor but 2024 Erich Harding is going to be one to really watch. He is a fluid, developing forward that moves well on offense and defense, can step out, and runs the floor. Harding is one that is just scratching the surface of what he could be and continues to get stronger.
There were other players that captured our eyes and a few new names that should be interesting to watch. 2022 Rohan Petiote is an athletic player that makes plays on both ends, finishing at the rim and making an impact defensively. He also can really be a threat from the outside with his shot-making ability. 2023 Jalen Booker played well, kind of a do-it-all type player that can play multiple positions, can score inside and out and moves well without the ball.
2023 Nyckolas Clarke is one that hustles and makes extra effort type plays while using his size to help in areas and on the boards. 2023 Tripple Rogers is a strong, physical prospect that battles on both sides and can be physical. 2024 Kenyon Addie is a young prospect that has size, can step out to knock down shots, and provide depth. 2024 Justin Rushin is another young guard who isn't afraid to step up and show his ability to knock down shots.
Westminster Catawba certainly has the talent to make a run in North Carolina once again, led by their senior leaders. A very confident group, Westminster Catawba will be a fun team to watch and will be a must-see team throughout the upcoming season.
