From the Bleachers
Phenom's Palmetto Winter Classic
Day 2 – Recap
Miller School vs Conway ~ Village Christian vs AC Flora ~ Hammond vs Blythewood
By Eric Dawkins
Day 2 of Phenom's Palmetto Winter Classic kicked off at Ben Lippen School (Columbia SC) on 29 December 2017. While very cold outside, the heat of competition inside the gym could melt snow. I personally thank all the players, coaches, and fans of the six teams I had the pleasure of seeing for a great day of competition. From the bleachers, I witnessed some very talented, selfless, well-coached players with tons of loyal and spirited fan support compete at an amazingly high level.
Though I wish I could mention everyone, from the bleachers the following players caught my eyes (yes, both eyes):
*** stats are unofficial ***
6'2' 2018 Jonathan Breeland (Blythewood HS, Blythewood SC)
Very soon Breeland should become a household name and appear on the scouting boards of many college coaches. He is a mentally and physically strong guard whom I've watched grow over the past few years. He is suited for the PG position at the next level. His biggest assets are a high basketball IQ and court vision. He is smart enough to let the game come to him. He unselfishly sets up his teammates first and attacks when the play is open. Breeland finishes through contact on both sides on the rim and possesses a nasty pull-up jumper. He always has his head up and eyes down the court; making him one of the best passers and readers of defense that I have witnessed. His passes are equally as sharp with both hands and this is evident by the 12 assist on Day 2. He displayed the ability score at all levels and is clutch from the FT line (8 for 8). He competes and defends with the best of them.
24p/12a/4r/2s/1b
6'5' 2020 Jordan Burch (Hammond School, Columbia SC)
Burch is built like a football player with the athleticism of a wing player. He handles the ball like a guard and has a smooth left-handed trigger. For such a big player, he has quick feet and turns the corner with low shoulder level. This combination makes him virtually unguardable. Burch demonstrated the ability to knock down the 3, get into the lane and finish, initiate and run the break, and pass out of double teams. He is explosive yet displays a calm on-court demeanor. I love it – don't talk about it; be about it. He is a very interesting prospect. I am going to enjoy watching him over the next couple of years.
16p/2a/8r/2s
6'1' 2019 Travion McCrae (Village Christian, Fayetteville NC)
McCrae is a blur with the ball in his hand on the court. Already known to the basketball world, he did not disappoint on Day 2 of the classic. He got what he wanted on the court when he wanted it. While he dished out 6 assists don't be fooled; he is a scorer and that's not a bad thing. Scoring in a variety of ways, McCrae is most dangerous in the open court. He possesses elite athleticism coupled with size and strength. Offensively, he puts so much pressure on the defense. McCrae caused fouled trouble issues all game (14 FT attempts). He elevates and has excellent footwork on his jump shot. McCrae finishes with both hands. What I like is that he is a vocal leader who doesn't get rattled under pressure nor does he hide from competition.
24p/6a/8r/2s
6'11' 2019 Derrick Quansah (Village Christian, Fayetteville NC)
Quansah did what I like Bigs to do; score, rebound and protect the paint. He is long and rebounds the ball at its highest point. He finishes with both hands through contact. He is very athletic and runs the floor well. He also displayed good low post footwork and the ability to pass out of double teams. He was able to step out to the short corner and showcase a soft touch on his jumper. His greatest contribution and asset is highlighted on the defensive end. He possesses great anticipation and is a quick leaper allowing him to block and alter shots at a high rate. 'Not in my house.'
17p/17r/6b