It is becoming evident that 2023 point guard Layden Blocker is going to be a hot target for schools around the country, which is why many have already offered. It has already been an exciting summer, getting a chance to showcase his talent, his recent announcement about heading to Sunrise Christian, and his recruitment as the Big 12 seems to be making a strong push.

Check out the latest with Blocker, as he is our latest interview with Phenom Hoops.


Phenom: Summer ball is here.  How has it been going for you overall in your eyes'  Who have you been playing with this summer and what has been your main focus'
Blocker: Overall, this summer has been going well.  I've been playing with Bradley Beal Elite 16u and this summer, I'm just focusing on getting better.  Since I'm going to a nationally-ranked basketball program, there is a lot of things I need to work on and critique my game.

Phenom: What areas of your game have you been really been working on'
Blocker: I've been working on my reads coming off ball-screens, ballhandling, and getting stronger.

Phenom: You recently announced that you would be heading to Sunrise.  What is your excitement around heading to that program'
Blocker: I'm very excited about heading to Sunrise.  I think it is going to help me prepare for college and overall, I think it is going to be a great experience.

Phenom: Sunrise has produced some terrific talent and plays a big-time schedule.  That has to be exciting for you to get on the big stage but also play against some of the best talent.
Blocker: Yes sir!

Phenom: Were you able to watch them last year'  How do you think playing with the program will help develop your game'
Blocker: I think playing with Sunrise will help me grow as a player by being challenged every day in practice and playing a competitive national schedule.  I believe I will grow as a leader and learn to play at a faster pace more like the college level.

Phenom: Recruitment has been taking off, racking in the offers.  Overall, what has that been like for you, earning big offers and having so many programs making you a priority'
Blocker: It's a blessing to receive offers.  It lets me know that my hard work is paying off.  I have to keep working though and never get satisfied.

Phenom: Wanted to get your thoughts on a few offers. Texas A&M was the latest. What are your thoughts on that program and offer'
Blocker: I've been building a relationship since my freshman year with Coach Johnson.  After talking with Coach Buzz, he offered me. Coach Buzz is a winning coach.

Phenom: Kansas was a big offer as well. What was your excitement with that offer and what do you like about them'
Blocker: I get excited about all my offers and the coaches that recruit me.  Kansas is one of the top programs in college basketball with a great coach.

Phenom: Overall, several Big-12 teams have made you a priority.  What are your thoughts on that conference and being around the area there'
Blocker: A lot of Big 12 schools made the NCAA Tournament.  I want to have a chance to play for a national championship.

Phenom: What other schools have really been showing strong interest your way'
Blocker: Auburn, Baylor, Kansas, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, Texas A&M, Arkansas

Phenom: What schools have you been able to visit'
Blocker: Arkansas and Baylor

Phenom: What stood out about each of those visits in your eyes'
Blocker: Arkansas and Baylor both have nice campuses and facilities.  They put a lot into their athletes; nutrition, strength programs, and trainers.  Got a couple of scheduled visits in the fall and have been talking to coaches about possibly scheduling more in the fall.  Ole Miss Sept 10-12. Auburn Oct 8-10.